“I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her.”
Hosea 2:14
I can point accusingly at the Hebrew people who witnessed many miracles yet grumbled as soon as there was a need without immediate provision. But I too sometimes fear that my needs might not be met instantly or to my liking. Though God has faithfully provided for me in the past, how quickly my fearful heart strays!
God loved the Israelites too much to leave them to themselves. He led them into the desert where the heat and rough terrain were less life-threatening than their debilitating distrust and their attraction to foreign gods. As they wandered, God provided His holy presence, food and water, and sandals that never wore out. He used the harsh desert conditions to chisel the young Hebrew boys into durable fighters, building an army of mighty warriors who would lead them to victory in battle.
Our Savior provides for us and protects us in desert places, too. He prepares us for the next chapter of our story. It’s a story He faithfully authors, one whose final chapter ends with all fears being conquered and His love bringing us home.
God loved the Israelites too much to leave them to themselves. He led them into the desert where the heat and rough terrain were less life-threatening than their debilitating distrust and their attraction to foreign gods. As they wandered, God provided His holy presence, food and water, and sandals that never wore out. He used the harsh desert conditions to chisel the young Hebrew boys into durable fighters, building an army of mighty warriors who would lead them to victory in battle.
Our Savior provides for us and protects us in desert places, too. He prepares us for the next chapter of our story. It’s a story He faithfully authors, one whose final chapter ends with all fears being conquered and His love bringing us home.
Scripture Focus
Exodus 17:1-7
Insight
“The LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
Bible In A Year
- Ecclesiastes 7-8
- Psalm 66
- John 6