We’ve all been there: trapped in an awful season that felt like it would never end. Crying out to God, asking Him to part the Red Sea or get us out of the lion’s den we somehow landed in. Our desperate pleas for relief echo that of King David – “How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1).

Sometimes we find ourselves in this place as a result of our own actions or missteps. Other times, we’re left scratching our heads, wondering how in the world we ended up here when it feels as though we’ve done everything right. Regardless, we want out – fast. 

But when our rescue seems slow in coming, it’s crucial to remember that in the fiery heat of the wilderness is where God does some of His best refining work.

A cursory look at the Isrealites’ 40 year journey through the wilderness might lead someone to feel that God delayed their final destination a little too long or that His approach to “parenting” was a little too harsh. What kind of father would keep his children in a place where he knew they would hunger? Thirst? Weep? Doubt? Break? 

But the truth is, He’s the kind of Father who is more interested in our character than our comfort. The kind of Father who is for us and never against us. The kind of Father who has a view of our “Promised Land” long before we do and will stop at nothing to prepare us for it – even if that means keeping us in the desert until He’s done ironing out our kinks.

Friend, if you’re still in the thick of your wilderness, it means that God loves you too much to let you walk out of it prematurely. It means He cares enough about the “future you” to ask the “present you” to wait patiently while He does whatever it takes to prepare you for what’s next.

So don’t give in to the temptation to rush out of your wilderness. I know it’s hard. I know it’s long. I know it’s messy and uncomfortable. But it’s holy ground, and you’re guaranteed to walk out of it stronger, wiser, and more resilient – as long as you let Him lead you through it.