Nobody on earth strikes the match for burning bushes. Only God can do that. Our part consists of wandering through the wilderness until we find that spot, and then to remember to take off our shoes because we’ve stumbled onto holy ground.”
–Tommy Tenney
“Men, trust me, are not born, but fashioned.”
–Erasmus
Right now you may feel that your mind is muddled, that the world is nothing but chaos. Darkness looms, and in that darkness there is evil lurking, ready to strike you down. You wander in that darkness, stumbling over the roots of despair. The branches of immorality scratch at your eyes and sting your face as you continue to walk through the dense brush of a society that seeks your soul by compromise.
How, how will you ever make it? The news is appalling, not just here in America, but the whole world seems to be enthralled with darkness. Is evil overcoming the world; is it overcoming you? How in the world will you make it; how will your children make it? This is a time to think of Jesus as He was thrust into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. Don’t think it odd that the world situation is such as it is, and don’t fail to realize that God knew that you would be alive during this time, and going through these difficulties. He ordained it so, therefore, buckle up to the situation.
Remember, you are a stranger in this world. Don’t get comfortable with it. In the midst of traveling through this wilderness look to the Holy Spirit. As He thrust Jesus into the wilderness, so He has thrust you into your circumstances. I really like what George Matheson wrote.
“When I stand below the stars without Thee I say with Jacob, ‘How dreadful is this place!’ Take away the dread, my Father! Light this solemn world with Thy smile! Dispel with Thy voice the solitude I feel! Guide me amid the things I know not, the things that know not me! It is not death I am afraid of; it is life–life without Thee.”
We get too caught up with the cares of life, the trek in the wilderness, and we forget to realize that the Lord is with us each step of the way. We make praise casual instead of coming from the heart. When praise truly comes from the heart it will light a fire so that we can see our way through the forest even in the darkest night. Recognize Him with each step, for He is guiding them. Don’t turn to the left or to the right, but follow and obey His Word. Do not give in to the darkness, to the wilderness for it will only bring despair.
“Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go. 8 This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
–Joshua 1:7-9 (NASB)