“So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the Wilderness of Shur. And they went three days in the wilderness and found no water.” Exodus 15:22
How often throughout Scripture is this same scenario, God does an amazing work, the person or people rejoice, only to find themselves in a trial.
David was anointed king, has an amazing defeat of the giant, is a prominent captain who does great things, then spends years running for his life in the wilderness.
In my own life I’ve seen the same pattern. God does a great work, I’m on board, willing to do anything, then a trial comes and doubt or fear or both suddenly are my companions.
Why is it so difficult to hold fast to what we know is truth?
Why am I so quick to doubt when things seem to be turning backwards?
Has not God proven He uses all things for His purposes?
Is He not the same God I was praising and thanking when things were going well?
Of course He is!
So the problem is with me.
When self-pity or doubt or fear begin to follow my steps I need to send them packing.
When things are not going as I expect, I need to seek God more.
Why waste time, emotions, or energy on self-pity, doubt, or fear?
Of course there is a reason I’m having to even write this.
It’s because I’ve been afraid lately.
Afraid of the “what if…”
And in His gracious love God took me to this chapter of Exodus this morning.
Because no matter how well I know what to do it doesn’t mean it comes easy.
But the chapter has a really wonderful end:
“Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees; so they camped there by the waters.” Exodus 15:27
I love that.
God provided exactly what they needed and He shall do the same for me.
Every trial is a gift to seek Him and an opportunity to see how He will work through it.
It doesn’t mean it will be easy, but I know from experience when I’m able to look up past the things which desire to discourage me, I see a lesson and I’m
learning.
Dear Reader,
I hope you are encouraged to trust God and seek Him for whatever is trying to discourage you. If you are in a time of peace and joy, praise Him! But also make note of it so when the trial comes you can look back and remember what God has done.
May God bless you!
patientlyhopeful 