For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. -2 Corinthians 4:17

The wilderness-that’s where I get to know him better. It’s like the song, Wilderness, by Anna Byrd. Have you heard it? It’s in the trenches, in those dark, hurting places-that’s where I start to really know Jesus. That’s where He pulls me in closer and I hang on with all my might. That’s where I see that He is my true anchor-when the boat I’m on is rocking and the storms are raging all around me. That’s where I grow deeper in my relationship with Him and can feel the love Jesus really has for me. And that’s where I find peace.

Are you in a season where God is trying to draw you closer? I know I sure am. And it hasn’t been easy. To be honest, I started questioning this life. I was reminded though, in Byrd’s song, Wilderness, that there is a bigger purpose. A purpose for my pain.

She sings, “I could pray for deliverance
I could beg You for greener pastures
I could question why I’m still here
Shake my fist and demand an answer. But right here, right now is where I start to know You better”

She ends the song with,

“Even in the wasteland
Through the darkest valley, there is hope
‘Cause even in the wilderness
Even in the wilderness
You won’t let go
You won’t let go”

This past week has been a ride. Amidst ER visits and unknown illnesses, that’s where I’m getting to know him better, because it’s Jesus who is always there. He is the one I can reach for no matter my circumstances. He is the One who never changes-the One I can grab hold of and never let go of.

We may not understand the pain or trials we are facing. But, there is one thing that is for certain, Jesus is always right there with us in those trenches, and He won’t let go. He won’t let go. So let’s remember that even in the wilderness, He has a purpose. The suffering and heartache we may be going through right now, let’s use it to grow in our relationship with Christ. Dive in, grab hold of that Anchor, and get to know Him better.

The Lord your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” -Zephaniah 3:17