Have you found yourself, as the Israelites in this chapter, lost in a wilderness planted by your own sin and disobedience? Are you growing weary of the chastening sword of God? Whom the Lord loves, he chastens. (Proverbs 3:11-12 and Hebrews 12:6) But take heart! You can find grace in the wilderness. There is an end to God's wrath. Though the people of Israel were being severely scourged for their grievous sin and rebellion, God promised that there would be deliverance, that He would not forget His promise to them of a day of restoration. Though they were living in a strange land, they were encouraged to live for God. Even in a foreign land, His voice could be heard. (Jeremiah 29:4-7)
Whether you are in the wilderness because of you own prideful and selfish choices, or whether you have been carried into the confusion by the choices of those around you, you can still choose to hear and obey God's voice. He has not forsaken you. Look for grace in the wilderness. Moses. David. Peter. Joseph's brothers. The Prodigal Son. Even Adam and Eve. The Bible abounds with real people who found grace in their wilderness. Trust and obey! Lift up the hands which hang down... Hebrews 12:12. God won't leave you in the wilderness forever. Take comfort in His grace now, and know that He loves you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3).