The God Who Opens Rivers In Deserts

THE GOD WHO OPENS RIVERS IN DESERTS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Isaiah 43:19-20

Supporting Texts: Exodus 17:6, Psalm 78:15-16, Isaiah 41:18, John 7:38, Revelation 22:1

INTRODUCTION:

Deserts symbolise dryness, barrenness, lack, and isolation. They represent seasons of life when resources are scarce, hope seems distant, and survival feels difficult. Yet, in the midst of such harsh realities, God reveals Himself as the One who performs wonders—making a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

God delights in turning impossible situations around for His glory. When He speaks of bringing rivers into deserts, He is declaring His ability to refresh, restore, and revive even the driest aspects of your life. His power is not limited by natural laws or human expectations.

Today’s message is a call to believe again, to expect divine intervention, and to trust that no desert in your life is too dry for God to flood with rivers of grace, favour, provision, and power.

1. GOD SPECIALISES IN IMPOSSIBLE SITUATIONS

God is not intimidated by human impossibility; rather, He thrives in it.

a) God made water flow from a rock (Exodus 17:6):

He demonstrated His ability to provide miraculously even in impossible conditions.

b) He opened a path in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21):

What looked like a dead end became a highway of deliverance.

c) He made dry bones live again (Ezekiel 37:1–10):

No situation is too dead or dry for God to resurrect.

d) God opens doors no man can shut (Revelation 3:7):

When He decides to bless, no obstacle can block it.

Biblical Example: Sarah's barren womb became fruitful because nothing is too hard for the Lord (Genesis 21:1–2).

2. GOD PROVIDES SUPERNATURALLY IN DRY SEASONS

When all human help fails, God becomes your source.

a) Rivers in the desert symbolise divine provision (Isaiah 43:20):

God knows how to supply where there is no supply.

b) He fed Elijah by ravens (1 Kings 17:4–6):

God uses unexpected channels to meet His people’s needs.

c) He sustained Israel with manna for 40 years (Exodus 16:35):

Daily supernatural supply came in a barren place.

d) God opens His hand to satisfy the desires of every living thing (Psalm 145:16):

There is no lack with God.

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath experienced supernatural provision through the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 17:8–16).

3. GOD BRINGS REFRESHING AND REVIVAL

His rivers bring life to every dry and dead situation.

a) Rivers in scripture often represent the Holy Spirit (John 7:38-39):

The Spirit flows like rivers to quench spiritual dryness.

b) Revival comes when God sends His rain (Joel 2:23):

Spiritual drought ends with divine refreshing.

c) God restores our soul like a well-watered garden (Isaiah 58:11):

He renews our inner man even in trials.

d) Times of refreshing come from God’s presence (Acts 3:19):

A fresh encounter with God can change everything.

Biblical Example: On the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out and revived the Church (Acts 2:1–4).

4. GOD TRANSFORMS DESERTS INTO FRUITFUL FIELDS

God doesn’t just bring water to deserts; He turns deserts into gardens.

a) The desert shall blossom as a rose (Isaiah 35:1):

God can transform hopeless situations into beautiful outcomes.

b) He turns mourning into dancing (Psalm 30:11):

The God who brings water to the desert can turn sorrow into joy.

c) He gives beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3):

What was once useless becomes valuable in His hands.

d) The wilderness becomes a fruitful field (Isaiah 32:15):

The barren land turns into a place of abundance.

Biblical Example: Naomi returned to Bethlehem bitter, but God restored her joy through Ruth (Ruth 4:14–17).

5. GOD'S RIVERS NEVER RUN DRY

When God opens a river, it keeps flowing.

a) God’s blessings are continuous (Psalm 23:6):

His goodness and mercy follow us daily.

b) He is the fountain of living waters (Jeremiah 2:13):

His supply never runs out.

c) The river from God's throne flows eternally (Revelation 22:1):

There is a continual source in His presence.

d) We shall be like trees planted by rivers (Psalm 1:3):

Always fruitful, regardless of seasons.

Biblical Example: Isaac dug wells in famine and found water because God was with him (Genesis 26:12–22).

CONCLUSION:

No matter the dryness, drought, or difficulty you're facing, God is able to release rivers of life into your desert. His Word is sure, and His promises are unfailing. When He says, "I will do a new thing," believe it—because He is faithful to bring rivers where there once was only dust.

Don’t settle in the dryness. Look up, trust God, and expect divine intervention. The same God who opened rivers in ancient deserts is still working today. He will quench your thirst, restore your soul, and bring beauty out of your barren places.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, open rivers of provision and breakthrough in every desert of my life.