From my inbox...

patjrsmom sent me this in response to my last post. I thought it was lovely, and would like to share it. Thanks!

Wilderness Faith
The Holy Spirit initiated a season in Jesus’ life in which he would endure testing and temptation. At times, the Spirit will also lead us into the wilderness to endure a time of trial. It may be a wilderness of loneliness, illness, misunderstanding, poverty, failure, or doubt. Whatever the case, we can take courage from this crucial episode in Jesus’ life. For Jesus’ wilderness experience actually prepared him for his public ministry. The miracles, the preaching, the healings would all characterize the most tremendous ministry the world had ever seen. But not before Jesus engaged in a fierce and terrible spiritual combat.
If you find yourself in the wilderness, perhaps you should be encouraged. God may be preparing you for a time of greater fruitfulness and joy. Such times often do not emerge without a struggle. That struggle may involve facing your own sinfulness and lack of faith. Your enemy wants to convince you that God has abandoned you and that you are good for nothing. In this kind of desert, remember to cling to God. Just as Jesus prayed and fasted, keeping in vital communion with his Father, make sure that you are holding fast to God. You can’t possibly face evil on your own and win. But with patience and faith you can emerge stronger and more hopeful than before.
At times you will be tempted to escape the wilderness. If you’re lonely, you might find yourself rationalizing an unhealthy relationship. If you’re anxious about the future, you might become obsessed with finding ways to protect yourself and your family from financial hardship. If you haven’t been able to bear children, you might be tempted to try medical treatments you believe to be unethical in order to conceive. Whatever your temptations, resist the enemy and ask God for the strength to go on.
There will be an end to your wilderness. That will be a time of rejoicing, a time of moving once again in power and confidence, a time of blessing as God continues to fulfill his purpose for your life.
-Ann Spangler