Dealing with Disappointments in the Desert

A desert is a place of death. One we might call, godforsaken wasteland. As a consequence of living in this fallen world, we go through deserts and sometimes even find ourselves stuck in this dreadful place. The deserts in our lives come in the form of inconvenience, disappointments, difficulties, pain and sufferings. What is the cause of all these? Sin, our wrong choices in life and the consequences of sin committed by others.

Why does God lead us into the desert?

Being in the desert is a humbling experience. You see, when we encounter difficult times, we are reminded of who we are and who God is. We experience His love and grace. We become more dependent on Him. It also puts us in a position wherein others notice our dire situation but not in any way to disgrace or shame us but rather see how God works in us. Our stories give hope to the hopeless.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

- Romans 8:28

Suffering under the scorching desert sun is something I don't wish to befall me or any of my loved ones. However, we all go through loss, pain, sickness and death. Horrible situations reveal the content of our character. When we are under pressure, what is inside us inevitably comes out. Imagine how you will respond to being hurt by someone you adored? Would you give that person a tongue-lashing? Would you resort to cursing or violence? When we are tested, our weaknesses and strengths are revealed.

How do you deal with your disappointments in life? Do you whine endlessly, blame others for your misfortunes, get angry, get even or God knows what else you're capable of doing in the throes of fury?

Pride - the root of discontent, discord and countless silly mistakes. When one is proud, it is very difficult for that person to see what comes out of their hearts AND mouths. For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. Your words say a lot about your character. You have a choice: succumb to pride and deny your shortcomings or in humility, accept your situation and deal with it responsibly.

A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
- Luke 6:45

Sharing some photos from the desert.