THE DESERT OF WAITING

THE DESERT OF WAITING!

Luke 1:80

80 And the child [John the Baptist] grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

           Zacharias prophesied regarding his son that he would be the prophet of the Highest! This was a lofty destiny for John but when we get to verse 80 we see what we so often see in the lives of God’s chosen – we see waiting! First John had to endure time in the deserts eating locust and wild honey in solitude.

           The desert place in the life of disciples is located between seasons of ministry! Perhaps you feel that you are in a desert now. For some reason God has prepared you and polished you but has chosen to set you aside for a time you can’t yet see. Perhaps you are enduring a dry place dining on less than the best. You are anxious and you cry out to God “Let’s get this show on the road!”

           Did Moses ever wonder how long he would have to tend sheep in the wilderness of Midian? Did Joseph ever wonder if he would die in prison? Did David wonder while in the cave of Adulam if he would ever be King?

           It seems that God takes all of us through these times of darkness, dryness, dullness, dreariness, and dread. You are not alone my friend. Look around and see if any of these champions left you some words of hope scrawled on the walls! (James Ryle)

           Down time for God’s servants is either for rest from ministry done or preparation for ministry yet to come. Reward comes later and that reward is sure. If you are in the desert of waiting, rest and prepare yourself for what God has ahead.

Dear Lord, sometimes the desert convinces us that you are done with us. Help us to wait patiently for your direction. AMEN