Be Thankful For the Desert

There have been some major “desert experiences” in my life. Oh, how painful they were! And the tears I shed? I think they will forever be stored in my heart.

But I learned SO much.

I gained so much in the way of wisdom, discernment, integrity, and maturity. Yes, I had to be broken down a little bit, and learn how to rebuild myself stronger, wiser, and kinder despite the hurts.

But my soul got deeper in the process. My roots … stronger.

Everyone has a “desert” in their life. We often want to run out of it as fast as we can. We want to forget about it as soon as possible. And when in it? We see only ugliness, desolation, and loneliness.

But that “desert” is a gift. A priceless gift.

There are no other gifts in life that quite mold us like a “desert experience.” No other time period that truly shows us what we have inside of us, and what we need to grow.

These times are for our own good. They stretch us, mold us, and prick us. But we are more flexible afterwards. More insightful. More in-touch with humanity.

Everyone wants green grass in their lives. But we look out from where we are; thinking the other side of the desert is indeed greener. But it’s not. The grass is greener where you water it. And even a desert can grow an oasis!

Look for the gifts waiting for you right where you are. See that God does indeed provide you with nourishment and He has never left your side.

Sometimes what WE want isn’t what HE wants. And we can only see that when walking through a desert.

Or, maybe afterwards.