“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (Deut. 6:5 NIV).
The Israelites wandered through the desert for forty years because they didn’t trust God and go into the Promised Land. But in spite of their lack of faith, God did show kindness to them and provided them with food on their journey. He also made sure their clothes and shoes didn’t wear out. It is comforting to know that the Lord loved them and took care of them when they were in a land full of dangers. “There you saw how the Lord carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place” (Deut. 1:31 NIV). At the end of the journey Moses told them to love the Lord because of what He did for them.
Do you feel like you are wandering through a desert? Are you facing hardship of any kind? Are you worried and concerned about your job, family, or health? I believe that all of us, sometime or another, feel as if we are wandering alone in a very stark lonely place. When troubles come, temptations swamp you, or your health declines it does feel like you are all alone. It is during these times when you need to realize that God is still with you. Picturing God carrying you, as a father carries his son, can help you during the times of trouble. He is with you as you walk through your wilderness and loves you very much. When you feel like you can't go any further God will give you strength to carry on. “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV). Don’t be afraid for the Lord is always with you. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1: 9 NIV). Rest assured that the Lord knows what you are going through and will carry you in His arms if you ask Him for help.
Dear Lord,
There are times when I feel like I’m wandering alone in a wilderness filled with many problems. Help me to be brave and believe that you can carry me through it. Help me to trust you and believe that I can carry on with your strength. Thank you for hearing my prayer and giving me peace in the midst of chaos.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
