Wilderness?
“nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter and remained with him fifteen days.” Galatians 1:17-18
Today’s scripture is about the Apostle Paul after his conversion on the road to Damascus It says that he didn’t go right into ministry. He had a “wilderness” time. Many people believe that as soon as he was converted, he went right into full-time ministry. However, that just wasn’t the case. He spent three years growing in his spiritual walk with the Lord. This “wilderness” time no doubt, prepared him for the writing and teaching that he would do throughout his ministry.
There are many other examples of those who have gone through “wilderness” times as they prepared for ministry. Elisha served Elijah for several years before he was ready to step into the leadership position. David was pretty much an outlaw for several years before he became king even though he was anointed when he was still in his father’s house. Joseph spent 13 years in Egypt as a slave. Some of those years he spent in prison before he sat next to the pharaoh. The scripture is full of examples of those who went through the refining time and years of training. Their “wilderness” time was meant for refining, building up strength, and receiving the power of God for effective ministry.
Today I want to encourage you if you are going through a “wilderness” time to recognize it as a time of refining or growing. If it seems like you keep facing the same tests repeatedly, it could be because you haven’t passed them yet. As you recognize your “wilderness” time, begin to rejoice that God has a plan for you. Even though it may seem burdensome and weary, spend that time learning and growing as much as you possibly can. Then recognize this time is preparing you for the calling on your life. God is getting ready to accomplish many things for the kingdom of heaven through what He has called you to do! Ask the Lord to show you any areas where you need to grow so that you can move out of the wilderness into your promised land.
Today’s scripture reading: Galatians 1:17-24
