“Some experience their will falling flat, and they just stop praying. Instead of turning to God, they turn away. But now we can see that desolation is an opportunity to draw near to God in truth. This is an invitation to abide. . . . The gift of desolation is this lesson: We can do nothing apart from God.”- Kyle Strobel and John Coe
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.”- John 15:15 (NIV)
As Kyle Strobel and John Coe move on in Chapter 10 of When God Seems Silent, they caution that when you find yourself in the desert, do not:
- try to get out of the desert.
- fix your life; instead, offer yourself to the Lord and seek to walk by faith.
In addition, Kyle and John counsel, allow the Lord to open your heart to the truth and show you all that is within you. Certainly, the authors acknowledge, tell the Lord that you long for consolation. Or that you desperately want out of the desert. Above all, they underscore, bring your longings to the Lord in the shape of Jesus’ prayer:
“Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42 ESV).
In conclusion, Kyle and John encourage:
“If you find yourself in desolation, remember that desolation is an opportunity to stand before God, not only to the reality of God and sinful decisions we sometimes make but in the truth of what our character has become. . . .
God doesn’t just ignore our loudness, brokenness, and rebellion. He wants to transform us into the kind of people who, when pierced, bleed the fruits of the Spirit.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you to view desolation as an invitation to abide in Christ? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Longing for God v. feeling better”