A Word in the Wilderness

Why does God allow wilderness seasons in the Christian’s life?

In Joshua 9:1–5, the Gibeonites appeared with old garments, worn shoes, and moldy bread. Their disguise illustrates the worn-out provisions and deceptive wisdom of the world. In contrast, Deuteronomy 8:1–9 reveals a God who preserved Israel’s clothing, protected their feet, and provided bread throughout forty years in the wilderness.

In this message, Pastor Jeff Smith examines three purposes of the wilderness:

It puts us down by humbling our pride and exposing our dependence upon God.

It proves us by revealing the true condition of our hearts.

It prepares us for greater usefulness, future responsibility, and the blessings God has placed ahead.

The wilderness humbles what pride has exalted, reveals what the heart has concealed, and prepares us for what God’s goodness has provided.

Whether you are experiencing a wilderness of transgression, affliction, correction, or testing, do not waste what God desires to accomplish through it. God remains faithful to care for his people, even while correcting and preparing them.

The greatest provision God has made for sinful men is found in Jesus Christ. We cannot sustain or save ourselves; we must receive by faith what God has graciously provided through his Son.