The wilderness can literally be in the woods. Spiritually and emotionally it carries a very different meaning. In the spiritual sense, it represents a spiritual boot camp where old habits are stripped away, faith is tested, and individuals are refined before reaching a promised goal. Emotionally, it represents a period of uncertainty, such as a career transition or personal loss, where the familiar is gone but the future destination is not yet clear.

Moses and the Israelites spent 40 years wandering in the wilderness heading to the land of “milk and honey.” Despite God’s continual provision and seeing miracles like the parting of the Red Sea, there was still a lot of fear, whining and complaining. This is the result of significant frustration from years of wandering.

I can relate to the frustration, fear and whining. While my time in the wilderness currently sits at 8 months, God has already heard lots of complaining, begging, and my resolve to follow where God leads. It feels endless, I have yelled at God in fear and loss.

with a mighty hand and outstretched arm;
His love endures forever. ¹³ to him who divided the Red Sea^[a] asunder
His love endures forever. ¹⁴ and brought Israel through the midst of it,
His love endures forever. ¹⁵ but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea;
His love endures forever… ²³ He remembered us in our low estate
His love endures forever. ²⁴ and freed us from our enemies.
His love endures forever. ²⁵ He gives food to every creature.
His love endures forever. ²⁶ Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His love endures forever. (Psalm 136:12-15, 23-25 NIV)

And yet, I am reminded that God is faithful. I’m reminded that God’s love endures forever. I’m reminded to give thanks as he provides what I need. I don’t know when my time in the wilderness will end and in the meantime his love endures forever.

Have you wandered in the wilderness? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.