SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES
(1 Peter 4:10-11) (NIV): “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God; if anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.”
(Romans 12:6-8) (NIV): “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
(James 1:2-4) (NIV): “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
(Jeremiah 29:11) (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This scripture reiterates the promise of a hopeful future, inspiring a sense of anticipation and excitement.
(1 Peter 4:12) (KJV) “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you; 13But rejoice, insomuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part, he is evil spoken of, but on your part, he is glorified.
(1 Corinthians 10:13) (KJV) “There hath no temptation taken you, but such as is common to man, but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
PREFACE SUMMARY
I recently experienced a moment of divine inspiration, “What have you done with your gifts and talents while going through your wilderness experience?” As I meditated on the message I received, I was reminded of a powerful tent revival in 2010. At that revival, I shared a parable about servants entrusted with talents by a King preparing to go on a journey. Two of the servants wisely invested and multiplied their abilities, while one chose to bury his talent in a napkin, opting to wait for the King's return. The servant who buried his talent faced a stern rebuke for his fear and laziness.
I recall concluding my message by taking a penny out of a napkin and tossing it down the middle aisle of the big tent. I remember people standing and shouting, “Revival is here!” Newspaper reporters were present, and the following day, they approached me at the tent and told me they had been moved during that service.
Throughout our lives, we frequently encounter phases characterized by profound challenges and transformative experiences, often called 'wilderness experiences.' These moments can take the form of personal crises, intense emotional upheavals, or significant life changes that force us to confront our inward being.
In the context of this message, the wilderness experience symbolizes a period of spiritual testing and growth, akin to the biblical narratives of the Israelites' journey through the desert or Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness. It's a time when we feel lost, uncertain, and spiritually desolate, but it's also when we can grow and strengthen our faith.
This message is a beacon of hope, shining a light on the potential for profound personal growth even in the midst of challenging wilderness experiences. It focuses on acknowledging and harnessing our innate talents and strengths, delving into the complex nature of these periods, and highlighting their potential for discovering one's true self.
The wilderness experience can be defined by confronting physical, mental, and emotional obstacles, surmounting challenges, and engaging in deep prayer and thought. It could be a period of illness, a time of financial hardship, or a season of personal loss. While people may struggle with feelings of isolation and uncertainty, it also presents a profound opportunity for personal growth, gaining new insights, and uncovering one's true self amidst the vastness of life.
The experience of being in the wilderness often elicits profound emotions such as a sense of isolation, confusion, and vulnerability. These feelings can manifest in response to various circumstances, including personal loss, trauma, or significant life transitions. In the following section, we will comprehensively examine the psychological and emotional dimensions of these wilderness experiences, illuminating their role as catalysts for deep introspection and personal growth.
in conclusion; wilderness experiences, despite their challenges and difficulties, have the potential to yield significant and profound lessons for individuals. These experiences can empower people to emerge with newfound strength, a clearer sense of purpose, and a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships with others. This process allows believers to understand better their place in the world and the need for unity and harmony in the body of Christ.
"UNDERSTANDING THE PURPOSE FOR THE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE."
Experiencing a wilderness journey can be an incredibly profound and transformative time in an individual's life. This challenging phase is often characterized by discomfort, uncertainty, and spiritual desolation. Despite these difficulties, it's crucial to acknowledge that these experiences significantly shape and enhance one's spiritual journey.
The wilderness experience, often likened to suffering, is more than just a period of hardship. It is seen as a divinely orchestrated phase for personal growth and refinement. Drawing parallels to the Israelites' forty-year journey through the desert, today's believers may encounter similar circumstances where they feel adrift and without direction.
This phase in our life allows God to test and fortify faith, revealing what resides within our hearts. The experience of being in the wilderness often prompts individuals to transform their mindset from questioning, "Why is this happening to me?" to reflecting on, "What qualities or lessons is God endeavoring to develop within me through this challenging experience?"
During times of adversity and uncertainty, it is essential to hold onto faith as it can provide strength and solace. When faced with challenging circumstances, one is expected to experience a sense of spiritual wilderness, which can provoke doubts and feelings of isolation. However, it is crucial to remind oneself that even amid apparent silence, God's presence endures, offering comfort and security.
Amid life's most daunting challenges and trials, it is crucial to reinforce our unwavering trust in our covenant-keeping God, who has consistently shown Himself to be steadfast and true. This trust becomes a deep well from which we draw hope, resilience, and endurance, enabling us to overcome adversities and stand firm and unwavering under challenging circumstances. This unshakable faith in God's faithfulness becomes the cornerstone of our strength, guiding us through even the most trying times with steadfast resolve and strength.
Placing our complete trust in God's unwavering and loving character allows us to navigate life's most challenging trials with hope and resilience rather than succumbing to despair. As stated in (Romans 8:28) “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Beloved, I know people who, minutes after reading this verse, found themselves in a severe trial that left them hospitalized for several months. I remember telling a story in my Eighteen Wheels and Jesus book about some missionaries who nearly lost their life.
Have you ever thought, “Why Me, Lord?” only to later discover the reason why? [Sometimes years later.] Such was the time of one missionary whose ship was wrecked back in the days when the only communication devices were pins, paper, and bottles. His party was in dangerous waters, and their greatest fear was realized not when they capsized but rather when they happened upon an island inhabited by cannibals!
Before they could realize it, the cannibals surrounded them. Their leader approached this missionary in charge. The missionary was able to communicate with the cannibal’s leader, for the dialect was similar to one he had already known. The missionary convinced the cannibals that he and his party were not worth eating because they were tainted from their travels.
The cannibal’s leader was convinced as the missionary took out his pocketknife, raised his pants leg to cut a piece off, and handed it to the cannibal. After several spits of disgust, the savage leader exclaimed in his native tongue, “You're no good! You can go!”
Soon after, the missionary party was rescued. The members finally gained enough stamina to question their leader about this miraculous deliverance, asking, “How?” The missionary replied with Romans 8:28. The leader proceeded to tell them of the ordeal he had gone through some years before of losing his leg and gaining a “cork” one in its place. At the time of the loss, he had questioned God, but now, he realized that all things, good and bad, work together for those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose.
When we experience setbacks and losses, it can be disheartening and discouraging. However, it is essential to remember that these experiences can be valuable in deepening our appreciation for success when it is achieved. The contrast between failure and success can help us to understand the effort and perseverance required to reach our goals.
Setbacks are valuable growth opportunities that challenge us to re-evaluate our strategies, hone our skills, and explore new pathways toward success. Every defeat we overcome is a stepping stone to greater strength and resilience, allowing us to face adversity with unwavering confidence. It is essential to remember that losing is not the opposite of winning but a part of the journey towards success.
Beloved, in the wilderness, where surroundings are untamed and unpredictable, people often experience profound spiritual growth. Similar to Jesus' encounter with temptation in the wilderness, believers can emerge from their trials with strengthened resolve and better prepared to face future challenges. These encounters teach individuals to rely on God rather than their capabilities, leading to deeper intimacy with Him and a more profound understanding of their faith.
In conclusion, we can be reassured that our God is constantly working to benefit those who have a deep affection for Him. This powerful assurance acts as an unwavering anchor, providing believers with the understanding that their trials and tribulations are never without significance or purpose within the overarching plan orchestrated by a higher power, which reminds me of the In Psalm 61:2, the Psalmist David humbly implores, "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I." This verse reflects a deep sense of vulnerability and a powerful yearning for guidance and protection.
MY CONCLUSION
This message came about after receiving news that a wonderful minister friend had suffered a back injury from a car accident. Her name is Hope, and I always called her when I needed some hope. I can honestly say that most of the time I called her, she came through for me. But here she is, 10,000 miles away, and all I can do is send her some books and pray.
Beloved, feeling upset and frustrated when we lose is natural, but learning to accept defeat with grace and dignity is essential. This means acknowledging that losing is not the end of the world but an opportunity to learn and grow. By embracing a growth mindset, you can focus on the lessons learned from your setbacks and use them to fuel your personal growth.
When you experience setbacks and failures, it can be tempting to give up, become disheartened, and feel like a failure. However, it's crucial to remember that "losing is not the opposite of winning but an integral part of the journey towards success." The more you experience setbacks and learn to cope with them, the better equipped you become to face future challenges. By developing flexibility, you can handle stress better, adapt to change, and focus on your goals. Use setbacks as motivation and turn your failures into valuable learning experiences that make you stronger and wiser.
Beloved, because of God’s grace, we can take comfort in knowing he is in complete control. When we feel there is no way out and we seem tempted to an incredible extreme, we can take comfort in knowing that we are not alone. God trusts us to be overcomers because he lives within, which is more significant than in the world. In us.
The word tells us that we are not ignorant of the enemy’s devices and have all the necessary resources to be winners. Let’s be alert and quick to recognize the enemy’s tactics and fight from the side of the already-won victory. Let’s exercise our faith in resisting all attacks and draw support from our fellow Christians and the God of all Grace.
In conclusion, wilderness experiences are undeniably challenging but hold immense potential for personal growth and spiritual maturity. By embracing faith, seeking community support, practicing thankfulness, and understanding the divine purpose behind these trials, people can navigate their wilderness experiences with resilience and hope.
International Evangelist
Jerry W. Hulse, Ph.D.
Miracle Life Church International
