“O God, when You went out before Your people, When You marched through the wilderness, Selah … You, O God, sent a plentiful rain, Whereby You confirmed Your inheritance, When it was weary. Your congregation dwelt in it; You, O God, provided from Your goodness for the poor.”
Psalms 68:7, 9-10 NKJV
To some, the idea that G-d brings us to or leads us through difficult, painful, challenging circumstances and situations – aka a “wilderness” – may sound ridiculous and cruel at first glance. How can a good, loving G-d allow His people to suffer? After all, wouldn’t we – don’t we – as parents go to lengths to protect and position our own children? We guide our children down certain paths, hoping to help them avoid difficulty and suffering – so why wouldn’t G-d, supposedly loving and good, do the same?
The way to the Kingdom of G-d is not a smooth, easy road; the journey will lead through dry, desolate deserts. The wilderness of suffering is our training ground and difficulties our companions. Pain, loneliness, drought, disease, and loss are all guarantees in the life of the believer. If you’re breathing, you’ve suffered something. We all share that experience.
But G-d, in His goodness, promises to never leave or forsake His people. Whatever He leads us to, He promises to go with us and before us to lead us through it. There’s a fairly famous quote people use in an attempt to encourage someone in the midst of a trial: “if G-d brought you to it, He’ll bring you through it.” Though it’s not attributed to a specific person, I venture to say it’s roots can be found in passages such as this.
When G-d led His people out of Egypt into the wilderness, He marched before them. And when the people grew tired, hungry, and soul weary, G-d sent a plentiful “rain” – He rained down manna and quail, He supplied water to quench their thirst, and He gave them a light to follow and a cloud to shield and protect them. His provision in the wilderness was abundant. He provided for all of their needs.
When I think back to some difficult seasons in light of today’s passage, I see such beauty and promise! This verse specifically refreshes my soul today:
You, O God, sent a plentiful rain, Whereby You confirmed Your inheritance, When it was weary.
He has sent me plentiful rain time and time again in every season He’s walked me through and when I pause to think about the plentiful rain He’s given me – friends like Randi, a mentor like Pastor Olen, life in KY, children who love Jesus, a husband who has grounded me, parents who champion me, unexpected provision, and more – my soul is flooded with gratitude, and I say as David did, “Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, The God of our salvation! Selah”
Psalms 68:19 NKJV
His rain is plentiful in every season and falls just when we need it. If you find yourself like me, a little dry and weary – hold fast. Rain, plentiful, beautiful rain to refresh and restore us is coming and it’s not far off.
Father – thank You for how You restore and provide for me. Your promises are sure and Your love is endless. Send Your rain on my friends and family who need it today. Water weary souls with Your presence. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: Psalms 1-2, 15, 22-24, 47, 68