So today the message was about Elijah. When he was in the desert and God sent ravens to bring him bread and meat. There are several parallels to this story. Jesus was in the desert for 40 days and the angels brought him sustenance. Moses was in the desert 40 years. Elijah was In the desert again when Jezebel was after him. One thing these instances have in common is something we often fail to realize in our own desert. It was God who sent them there. The desert was Gods doing. Jesus went willing knowing Gods purpose. Elijah twice found himself there. Moses ... Well ... Spent a good part of his life there.
What did God do in the desert? Jesus prepared to begin his earthly ministry. The most amazing ministry ever on the face of the earth. Elijah's time in the desert not only saved his life twice but allowed God to show his faithfulness by sending food with the birds and water from the brook. He blessed the widow and Elijah both by supplying oil miraculously. Without the desert would either of them have known his miraculous provision? And Moses! How many miracles did God do over the period of their 40 year journey from Egypt to Canaan? Food, water, protection, His living presence in their very midst, clouds, fire and it even started with a burning bush.
We do not like the desert. We think we are being punished sometimes. Whatever desert is in your life whether finances, relationships, ministries, careers, or whatever it is may seem completely dry and barren. Remember even Jesus Elijah and Moses went through those times. When everything seems empty remember that God is in the desert. it might even be His doing because it's where he does some of His best work. It's where we learn to trust Him and see His hand work in amazing ways. He does not abandon His children in the desert He trains them. Once you have faced the fears of the desert and seen his deliverance what can you face that is too difficult to believe Him for?
It makes us stronger and teaches us to trust Him. It brings His power and anointing to our Lives and ministry. Let Him do His thing. He's closer now than he has ever been.