A wilderness trust

 

Psalm 63

In scripture, the wilderness is a geographical location. But it also speaks to an experience. As a location, the wilderness is a tough place to survive. No, it's not impossible, but you better prepare yourself. As an experience, it represents the hardships and adversities that come with life. At some point, then, we all walk through the wilderness. According to Psalm 68's title, David was in a wilderness. Scholars debate what that was for David. It could represent some part of his life before he was king. Maybe it's when he fled Jerusalem during his son's rebellion. Or he could've been on the run from King Saul. Whatever his situation, what's most notable is David's focus on God. To say you believe in God is a worthy affirmation. But if David is in a wilderness, think what he must mean when he says, "my soul thirsts for you." David found his satisfaction in God and decided he would cling to God. All while in the wilderness. It's easy to give thanks when your Thanksgiving plate is full. What if you have nothing? Can we be satisfied with God's lovingkindness if scarcity fills our life? John Chrysostom, an early church father, noted that the early church recited Psalm 68 every day. The early church knew the wilderness. And they understood, apparently, what David knew. That God's "steadfast love is better than life." That belief didn't make the wilderness any less wild. But still they thirsted after God. Our modern churches face wildernesses. You do, too. Psalm 68 reminds us of the choice we have to seek God. Not just to believe in God. To pursue God, focusing more on the Lord's "power and glory" than the wilderness. Can we seek God as David and the early church once did? Will we? Stay blessed...john