While in the “Desert,” Keep Your Faith

Exodus 16:35 says, “The people of Israel ate the manna forty years, till they came to a habitable land. They ate the manna till they came to the border of the land of Canaan.”

Have you ever found yourself in a “desert” season of life? I know that feeling all too well. As a believer in the Most High, I’ve had my faith tested, wondering whether I was on the right path. It’s easy to feel lost and alone, especially when you do everything you can to move forward. You’ve gone to school, earned your degree or master’s, and tirelessly searched for a job, yet opportunities remain elusive.

Meanwhile, you see friends succeeding in their careers, starting families, and building the life you’ve dreamed of. It’s disheartening, isn’t it? I’ve felt that discouragement. I’ve felt my faith shake. But even in the darkest moments, I’ve never lost my faith in the Most High. I hold onto the belief that even when God seems silent, He is working behind the scenes, preparing the best for me.

Consider the story of Lazarus of Bethany. When he was gravely ill, his sisters, Mary and Martha, believed he could be healed. They sent for the Messiah, known for his miraculous healing power. Yet, the Messiah didn’t rush to Lazarus’s side; he waited. He waited until Lazarus died and was buried. Only then did he come. By human standards, he was late. But in God’s timing, He was right on time. The Messiah raised Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His power over life and death. What’s striking in this story is found in John 11:35, where the Bible says, “Jesus wept.” Even knowing he would raise Lazarus, the Messiah felt and shared in the sorrow of Mary and Martha. This reminds us that our Heavenly Father understands our pain. He weeps with us in our struggles and suffering, and in His perfect time, He brings us out of our “desert.”

Also Read: For How Long Will It Last?

In my own “desert” times—whether it’s been facing lack, illness, or deep pain—I’ve learned to put my trust in God on full display. I’ve realized that even when it feels like God is absent, He is still present and powerful. Numbers 23:19 reassures us, “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?” Every promise He has made will come to pass. Our task is to keep the faith.

There have been times when I’ve wept deeply over the life I hoped for, mourning dreams that felt lost. Yet, through these tears, I’ve also learned to wash my face, trust the Most High, and embrace the life He has given me now. Experiencing real emotions does not equate to a lack of faith. It simply reflects our humanity. Just as the Messiah grieved for Lazarus, we, too, feel pain.

So, while you are in your “desert,” don’t waste that season. Embrace it. During my times of joblessness, sickness, and lack, I’ve learned to trust in the Highest alone. I’ve resolved that even amid my “desert,” I will focus on thanksgiving and praise. Our “desert” is not a sign of God’s abandonment but an opportunity for growth and deeper faith. The Most High is with us, guiding us to the promised land He has prepared. Hold on. Keep your faith. The journey may be long, but the destination will be worth it.