Devotional:
There's this song for pre-schoolers called, "We're going on a bear hunt." In it, it discusses this journey that two forest rangers went on to hunt for bears. What they didn't expect were the different obstacles that stood in their way. Instead of going over or under these things, they had to go through them.
Today, God has that same reminder for some of you. You must go through this wilderness period. Just like the Israelites, there's a preparation required for you to attain what He has for you. You also must become firmly established in the knowledge of God so when trouble comes you aren't easily swayed. God does this through two major tests, I'll dive deeper below.
Test of Humility
This often comes with shame and burdening circumstances to develop a new heart within you. Whatever God calls you to, will require you to have compassion for those whom you are called. It doesn't matter if you will serve one person or millions. The more you focus on you, the longer it takes to pass the test. The true key to passing this test is to recognize that nothing you've been through or going through is about you. It's bigger than you. When you grasp this, you begin to worship and pray no matter the circumstances your facing. Because again, it's bigger than you.
Test of Loyalty and Obedience
Simply put, will you stay loyal to God no matter how ugly the process gets? If God said don't work, will you up and find a job the second things begin to get tight? Will you lean on your own understanding when things don't make sense? Or better yet, will you stay in the relationship God been told you to get out of? 👀 God makes it very simple. You will serve no other gods before Him nor make any idols for yourself. The only way you will pass this test is to do what God says and honor Him in all your ways.
Regardless of your feelings, know that God is still in control and that the only way out of the wilderness season is to go through it. No matter how ghetto it can be... 🥴
Scripture(s) Meditation:
“Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.”
Deuteronomy 8:2 NIV
Song Meditation: Going on a Bear Hunt
To listen to today's song meditation, click here.
Reflection Question(s): We invite you to discuss below.
When did you enter the wilderness? What are some tests you've had to face? What are some lessons you've learned? What are some lessons you've had to keep learning? How can you better maintain your relationship with God as you venture through it?
Sun'Ray💕
As I was reading this I reflected back over the past 6 years. I’ve had a lot of trauma through my family, to the point I could become a recluse. I just want to be alone with God but He continuously puts me with people that I don’t want to be around. I must say that through it a song keeps going through my mind. Hi it’s me! I’m the problem, it’s me!! were they abusive? Yes! But in it all He has driven out of me people pleasing! And many other issues that were planted in me from birth. He used my enemies to bless me in the wilderness!!