Deserts: God’s Provision in the Wildernessਨਮੂਨਾ

Insecurity to Belonging

We can’t study deserts in the Bible without camping out in the book of Numbers. You might be feeling some trepidation, but imagine me motioning you to squint into the future. See past the endless census lists that usually cause us to skip the book and move on Deuteronomy.

Because, you see, in Hebrew, Numbers is titled “In the Wilderness.” If we set our gaze on the middle of the book of Numbers, we see God’s people wandering in the desert. Or, should I say, rebelling in the desert as they listen to their doubts and insecurities rather than believing that God is truly good.

That’s what insecurity does, doesn’t it? It pulls on a little thread of doubt before our faith comes unraveled. It’s a nagging voice in our head that whispers He’s going to let the shoe drop.

If you’ve ever sensed that your life is in a holding pattern or that you’re stuck in liminal space, this lesson is for you. Our in-between places tend to reveal our capacity for faith. Are we prone to wander, feeling lost? Or can we be the kind of Christ followers who stay in step with him to enjoy our foundness in God? You’ve heard it said that “time will tell,” but what I want to submit to you is that “the place will tell.” The Desert of Sinai is a place that represents our insecurities. A place where our lack of trust trips us up—and, as the Israelites show us, prohibits us from enjoying the fullness of God’s blessings.

I, for one, am overwhelmed with gratitude that God forgave the people who didn’t get to see the Promised Land. Not enjoying their inheritance was a terrible outcome, but it could have been much worse. God could have given them what they deserved. Instead, he acted in line with his abounding love.

It’s not too late for us to ask for forgiveness. It’s not too late to confess your sin. It’s never too late to find God’s embrace again. He’s drawing you in close to cover your sins with his love.

Like a mother or father carrying their beloved child, God is carrying you. God is on your side, just as he was for the Israelites. He’s making a way through, he’s been by your side the whole way, and he’s meeting all your needs. And he always will.

Prayer: God, as the hymn says, “Prone to wander, Lord I feel it.” Thank you that you continually welcome me back when I turn back to you. Help me to stay close to your side. In Jesus’ name, Amen.