The Wilderness and the Well: Finding God’s Purpose in the Journey

The Wilderness and the Well: Finding God’s Purpose in the Journey:

Introduction:

Life’s path often leads us through unexpected terrains. We may find ourselves in places of isolation, transition, or even pain. These “wilderness” experiences, though challenging, are not without purpose. They are often the very places where God shapes us, reveals His presence, and prepares us for greater service. Just as Moses encountered the burning bush in the wilderness, and John the Baptist was driven there to find his ministry, so too can we discover God’s empowerment and plan in our own seasons of solitude.

Abiding in the Vine

“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”1 (John 15:5, KJV)

The Lord desires an intimate connection with us. When we abide in Him, we are rooted in His strength and purpose. The Father is “branching Himself” in us, binding Himself to us. He has a purpose for our lives that transcends our current circumstances. Sometimes, like John the Baptist or Jesus, we must be led into the wilderness to be empowered and activated for His divine plan.

Empowerment in the Wilderness

The wilderness is not a place of desolation, but a place of preparation. It is a place where we encounter God in a profound way, much like Moses at the burning bush. It is where our faith is tested and refined, and where we discover the resources, anointing, and gifting He desires to pour into us.

A Pillar of Testimony

“Then shalt thou tell thy son in that day, saying, This is that which the Lord did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt.” (Exodus 13:8, KJV)

God uses our experiences, even the difficult ones, to shape us into examples for others. Our journey becomes a “pillar” – a testimony of God’s faithfulness and hope. As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so our lives, marked by faith and hope, can offer a glimpse of God’s saving power to those who are lost and wandering.

Faith and Hope

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1, KJV)

Faith is not merely a tool for survival, but the foundation for our deepest desires and greatest dreams. God calls us to a faith that is anchored in hope, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. He desires to give us the currency of the kingdom.

A Time of Preparation

Just as there is a time for planting and a time for harvest, there are seasons in our spiritual journey. We may find ourselves in a set season of preparation, where God is opening doors and aligning us with like-minded individuals and ministries. This is a time to be open to His leading, even if it seems unconventional.

Ministering to the Hungry

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, KJV)

God may call us to minister to those who are spiritually hungry, even in places that seem “nominal” or lacking in spiritual depth. He wants to use us to share the truth and love of Christ with those who have not experienced it fully. We are to be a conduit of His love.

Divine Waste

“Then said the men of his city unto him, Why weepest thou? hast thou not heard that the king of Israel knoweth that I and all my people that are about him are valiant men for the war?” (2 Samuel 19:3, KJV)

God’s ways are often beyond our understanding. Like the “divine waste” of the drink offering, He may call us to pour ourselves out for others, even when it seems extravagant. He desires us to be willing to be “spent” for His purposes, to offer the living water of Jesus to those who are thirsty.

Qualified and Chosen

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his2 marvellous light.” (1 Peter 2:9, KJV)

God qualifies us for His purposes. He dismantles illegitimate words spoken over us and declares our value. He wants to use us to bring healing and settle offenses, speaking the goodness of God to those who have been hurt and disregarded.

Confirmation and Guidance

“In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.” (2 Corinthians 13:1, KJV)

As we seek God’s direction, He will provide confirmation and guidance. We are encouraged to “fleece” God, laying our desires before Him and seeking His clear leading.

The Kingdom and its Blessings

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew3 6:33, KJV)

As we seek first the kingdom of God, He promises to fill the empty places in our lives, both spiritually and naturally. He desires to bless us abundantly, not for our own sake, but so that we can be a conduit of His blessing to others.

Generosity and Love

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV)

God’s base nature is generosity. As His love is amplified in our hearts, we are called to give freely to others, meeting their needs and sharing the fragrance of Christ.

Wisdom and Discernment

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5, KJV)

God grants wisdom to those who ask, enabling us to discern His will and walk in His ways.

Pruning and Suffering

“Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” (John 15:2, KJV)

Pruning is a necessary part of our spiritual growth. Though it can be painful, it ultimately leads to greater fruitfulness. We are encouraged to seek understanding and wisdom in the midst of suffering, knowing that God has a purpose in it.

Mentorship and Discipleship

“And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:2, KJV)

God calls us to walk alongside others, to mentor and disciple them, and to pour our lives out for their benefit. This is how we make disciples and extend the kingdom of God.

A Call to Action:

• Abide in Christ: Cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus, allowing Him to guide your path. (John 15:4)
  Embrace the Wilderness: Recognize that challenging seasons can be times of growth and preparation. (Deuteronomy 8:2)
• Be a Pillar of Hope: Share your testimony and offer hope to those who are struggling. (1 Peter 3:15)
• Give Generously: Be a conduit of God’s blessing, meeting the needs of others. (2 Corinthians 9:7)
• Seek Wisdom: Ask God for wisdom and discernment in every situation. (James 1:5)