For forty days Jesus was in the wilderness. Forty days of fasting with no food and water pursued by the devil. The devil bombarding Jesus with temptations. Temptations to have him turn against his father. With each attack Jesus stood firm not giving the deceiver a foothold.
Preparation
As with Jesus, you experience a wilderness period. Period when most vulnerable and emotional. Experiencing emotions that are result of being attacked and feeling isolated. You are not alone. This is a period where you must be uncomfortable. Uncomfortable to undergo preparation. Preparation that results in growth and development.
Lessons
The growth and development builds character and stamina. Learning is occurring for a purpose and reason. In the times of my wilderness periods, I gained:
Sight – See beyond the natural to see with my spirit.
Perspective – Change the view of situation to a challenge
Discipline – Commitment to the process not seeking shortcuts
Dependence – Strengthen connection to my father
Self -awareness – Understand of who I am, gift and capabilities
Good
The wilderness is for your good. Good by providing time to pause and reflect. Removing distractions. Distractions that hinder progression and moving forward to living in purpose.
Growth
The forty days in the wilderness did not break Jesus. He becomes stronger. Jesus tapped into his will and stamina remaining committed to his calling. You can do the same. The wilderness cannot break you. You have the strength and will to endure. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak (Isaiah 40:29, NIV).
Endure to press forward. Forward to being your best self. After the wilderness, angels are sent to attend to you just like Jesus. Attending to replenish and empower. The wilderness is a period of preparation and growth. But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded (2 Chronicles 15:7, NIV).
In your wilderness, I challenge you to reflect on what is gained and learned. Changing your perspective.
