Good morning. Today is Thursday, September 21, 2023. In this morning’s lesson, let’s follow Jesus into the desert (or what the Bible calls the “wilderness.”) for a Spirit-led lesson. Read on…
Today's Reading:
Daniel 7,8; Psalms 137; Luke 4
Scripture
“And Jesus, FULL of the Spirit, was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days.” … And Jesus returned to Galilee in the POWER of the Spirit” (Luke 4:1, 14)
Observation
Jesus was "full of the Spirit and led …" No, He didn't aimlessly wander in the desert. He was "led about." Oh sure, it was still in the wilderness … and the wilderness could feel, at times, seemingly pointless. But here, we find that we can be in the wilderness while under the Holy Spirit's direction. In other words, even wilderness times have a divine purpose. It was from here that Jesus would begin His public ministry. It was a season to pivot, assess, and adjust His direction in order to embark on a new level of ministry and life.
Application
Often, I think that wilderness times are 'throw-away' seasons—aimless times make for an aimless life. However, here I see things differently. Wilderness times can set the stage for a more focused life. During this time, Jesus overcame the tempter, who otherwise would have been nipping at His heels at every turn!
Even during these confusing times when leaders are divided and fighting among themselves, it can feel like Christians are in a wilderness season. However, those of us who know Christ can be led by His Spirit. God is increasing the contrast.
These are the last days. The darkness will grow darker, but the light must shine brighter! Wilderness times provide me with an opportunity to reassess my personal life, thought life, ministry, heart, and everything else. I need to view wilderness times, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, through a different lens.
Moses' ministry was born in one of these wilderness times. So were Paul's and David's. So can mine.
Prayer
Father, when you spoke to Moses, his heart was ready to receive. Sometimes, I feel ill-prepared, and I know that, at times, it’s because I may be running on empty. Give me sabbath seasons, even sabbath moments where I walk with You into the wilderness so that I can emerge, again and again, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
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