Devotionals

Desert Places

by Jennifer Woodley 
07/06/17
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Desert Places

‘His disciples replied, “How can one feed these people with bread here in the desert?”’ Mark 8: 4 (NRSV)

The crowd had not eaten for three days. They had been spiritually fed to capacity, but were physically empty. Christ, full of compassion, recognised the need and intervened. After giving thanks to His Father, the crowd ate to their satisfaction and were full. Strengthened by the meal, they returned home.

Thankfulness is a vital component of receiving God’s help in our desert times; in our wilderness experiences. Christ knew that well. He thanked His Father for the provision of a small meal and then received abundance to go around, feeding 4,000 people.

What is your desert place just now? Where are you hungry for God’s intervention?

In Romans 8 Paul reminds us of Christ’s unfailing love that is constantly with us, despite our circumstances. He said that neither hardship, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness nor peril will separate us from the love of Christ.

Because of this we can thank Christ that He works in the dry, desert places of our lives. In the places that are full of spiritual barrenness, He is always there. In times of desolation and discouragement, in danger, in weariness, in despondency and confusion, He is not only there but will work miracles that leave us astounded and humbled. Your dry, desert place is an opportunity waiting for Christ to bring miraculous springs of refreshing and provision.

Jennifer lives near Toowoomba with her family. She enjoys encouraging others on their Christian journey through writing and mentoring.