Scorched Trials

God’s Relief For Life’s Droughts.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

sept-29“And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.”
Isaiah 58:11  English Standard Version

I freely admit that I often take stock of my life and the world, and ask:  Is this as good as it gets?  The daily news bombards me with stories of unrest, senseless violence, war, mud-slinging politics, deteriorating economies, failing schools, rising healthcare costs, religious persecution and intolerance.  Tensions are high, and tempers are short.

All around me, friends, neighbors, relatives, and strangers, struggle daily with unemployment, addiction, mental instability, domestic abuse, failed marriages, poverty, illness, debt….the list goes on.   I find myself fixating on my own finances, job security, self-worth, child-rearing abilities, and borderline insanity within this crazy world.

It is easy to get lost and weighed down by mind-numbing daily routines, the disheartening news of the day, and much of this world’s empty promises. I continually strain to see God’s presence in all circumstances, and to understand that God can turn every situation around for His good.  Many days I fail because it is not an easy task.

So often we turn to things of this world to combat the horrors within this world.  That formula rarely works.   Mind-numbing drugs or alcohol, endless career building, self-help books, psychiatrists, technology, and sports and entertainment only provide temporary relief – leaving us empty and parched.

Is what this desperate world has to offer as good as it gets?  Is where you are in your struggle right now where you will remain?  The answer from God is a definitive and resounding NO.  There are plans for each and every one of us on this earth, and God will continue to nourish you and quench your thirst.  I pray today that you trust God to lead you through the scorched, dry areas of your life to bring about fulfillment, prosperity and the peace that can only come from Him.

Photo and text copyright Darcia Kunkel

About Darcia Kunkel

Darcia Kunkel is a former military spouse, mother of three (and two dogs), author, editor and business consultant. She has a heart for military families, and writes on a variety of topics including modern motherhood, Christian inspiration, military spouse transition, cooking, and the struggles of perfectionism.