It’s the Beginning!

Many of us find ourselves traveling through times in life that are difficult. We can’t seem to find the way forward. It’s as though we are in a desert with the sun relentlessly beating down on us. We are so thirsty for answers, and all we desire is some shade and refuge. Indeed, we just want out of this place. It is a wilderness phase of our lives.

These periods certainly are difficult, but we seem to learn more during tough times – about ourselves, about others and, yes, about God. It is because of this, that I invite you to consider a new look at the wilderness by offering words of encouragement that will hopefully connect or reconnect your thirst with the One who offers to be your unending supply of life-giving water.

Just as we are about to launch a new blog, I am reminded the Bible says, “In the beginning, God created…” (Genesis 1:1 NIV). I have never thought much about what was happening before “the beginning.” It never occurred to me that humanity was on God’s mind, yet we were and we are. Over the span of time, we have made a mess of things and troubles have come about as a result of our choices. Often those problems are because we elect to do life our way instead of God’s way. Scripture says, for those who believe, we have “a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time” (Titus 1:2 NIV).

God knew what we would do, say, and choose … and still brought us into being. Not only that, the Creator provided a way through each and every wilderness experience and promises to be with us until we reach safety and wholeness on the other side. I can’t think of a more fitting time to begin exploring God’s Ultimate Love than on Valentine’s Day – the day we celebrate love.

February 14 was my husband’s birthday. In December 2011, he began writing a blog at his most difficult time. He was “In the Wilderness” of cancer, and chose this phrase as the name for his blog. John’s life on earth ended when he reached the promised land on April 15, 2012, and for a number of years, his blog sat forgotten. (http://inthewilderness111.blogspot.com) I have come to appreciate all that he did to prepare the way for me to expand on his writings. It is my prayer that as I share my thoughts, you will join me on the journey of adventure and exploration that awaits. I hope, whether in agreement or disagreement, you will be open to discussion, but most of all, you will be encouraged and blessed.

Welcome to Oasis in the Wilderness!
You can reach me at: [email protected].

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