What practical steps can we take to trust God in our "desert wastelands"? Anchoring Verse Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” Seeing God’s Promise in the Desert The “wilderness” and “desert” picture seasons that feel dry, empty, and directionless. God’s pledge to carve a road and release streams shows that He remains active, present, and purposeful even when life appears barren. Practical Ways to Lean on the Lord in Desert Wastelands • Remember past faithfulness Deuteronomy 8:2–3; Psalm 77:11 Rehearsing the record of God’s help nourishes trust for today’s need. • Stay nourished by Scripture Daily intake of God’s Word hydrates the soul that feels parched. • Speak truth over feelings Psalm 42:5; 2 Corinthians 10:5 Replace despairing thoughts with the unchanging promises of God. • Cultivate thanksgiving 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Psalm 107:1 Gratitude shifts focus from scarcity to God’s generous character. • Seek intentional solitude with God Quiet moments open room for the Lord’s tender voice and guidance. • Lean into the fellowship of believers Hebrews 10:24–25; Galatians 6:2 Mutual encouragement supplies strength when personal reserves run low. • Serve others while waiting Pouring out refreshes both giver and receiver and keeps the heart aligned with God’s purposes. • Pray with expectation Presenting every need to God invites His peace to guard the mind amid the heat. • Watch for God’s new thing Isaiah 43:19 again Trust grows when the eyes stay alert for fresh evidence of His provision. • Hold an eternal perspective 2 Corinthians 4:17–18; Revelation 21:4 Remembering future glory reframes present hardship as momentary and meaningful. Living It Out Trust in the desert wasteland is nurtured by remembering, feeding on Scripture, speaking truth, thanking, seeking solitude, sharing fellowship, serving, praying expectantly, watching for God’s new work, and fixing the gaze on eternity. These habits position the heart to experience the promised streams even while the landscape still looks dry. |
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