The Wilderness Wanderings

October 26, 2026

READ EXODUS 2:23-25

The "Spiritual wilderness" is a metaphor for a difficult period of spiritual doubt, confusion, or dryness, often characterized by a lack of feeling God's presence or guidance. It can be a time of testing and refinement, forcing individuals to rely on faith and God's word rather than emotions. While it can be a challenging experience, the wilderness is not meant to be a permanent state, but rather a temporary phase in a person's spiritual journey.

“Wilderness wandering” refers to the plight of the Israelites due to their disobedience and unbelief. Nearly 3,500 years ago, the Lord delivered His people from Egyptian bondage as described in EXODUS, CHAPTERS 1-12.

Let me make it clear why the Israelites were in the wilderness, because of their lack of belief in God’s word and promises brought forth the wrath of God. He cursed them with forty years of wilderness wandering until the unbelieving generation died off, never stepping foot in the Promised Land.

The principal applies today. Many are living in the wilderness of life due to continual disobedience. Many of the people well they walked by sight and not by faith, and their unbelief displeased God. “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (HEBREWS 11:6). Their failure to believe in God’s word kept them from entering the Promised Land. This truth has never changed.

Whether or not we are living in a spiritual wilderness today is subjective and depends on individual experiences and perspectives. While some Christians feel isolated and disconnected, others see the current era as a time of spiritual growth and opportunity. The "spiritual wilderness" metaphor, often used in Christian contexts, can describe a period of isolation, testing, or feeling distant from God. However, it can also be a time of profound spiritual development and preparation for future blessings.

SCRIPTURE READING:

PSALM 18:6

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:

Today, we are victorious only if we believe the very words He has said.