Page 46 - Lenten Devotional 2021 updated 01-21

Day 30 - Navigating the Wilderness

Scripture:
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the
devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came
to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every
word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matt 4:1-14
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let
yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Gal 5:1
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you
have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Heb 13:5
Reflection:
There are times when we feel like we are so alone and there is no good that
surrounds us. We feel like nobody hears, cares, or understands. It is a time of
despair. We may hide behind a smile or even full laughter, but this only covers
up our loneliness. When you are there, you must realize that this is your
wilderness.

Just like you, Jesus has a wilderness season as well. The only way to navigate it
is to keep your heart and mind on Him. Be honest with yourself and those around
you. It’s OK to be vulnerable when your heart is wrapped up in the Savior. For
only God can carry us through these times, just like He carried His Son. You
have to speak to your wilderness using the Word of God as your compass. With
boldness, begin to pull from the library of your belief and stand strong in the
liberty where Christ has made you free. Change your focus from your wilderness
to your victory. Open your Word and allow the scriptures to minister to you.
Sing songs of praise and have conversations with your Heavenly Father.

When you are in your wilderness, take comfort that you are never alone.

Prayer:
Dear Father God, thank You for Your Word and how it leads us through our
wilderness season. Thank you for the promise of peace if we keep our mind
stayed on You. You promised you would never leave us; nor forsake us. We are
standing on these promises today. Give us strength to endure; give us courage to
speak to our wilderness season using the strength and power of your Word.
Thank You Lord for the victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen

About the Contributor:

Min. Bobbi Walston McCoy, MPA
Mt. Zion AME Church, Severn, MD

A 40-day Journey through a Season of Fasting and Praying 56