Desperation

Have you ever noticed the desperation that often overwhelmed the lives of Biblical heroes?

• Desperation for a child holds a prominent place in Scripture. Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Hannah all come to mind.

• Desperation for relief from horrible circumstances might rank even higher than desperation for a child. Job, Joseph, and several of the prophets are just a few of the names that immediately present themselves.

• Desperation for healing and provision can be seen vividly in both the Old and New Testaments.

I do not want to be seen as desperate. I want others to see me as one who trusts completely in the amazing provision of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I want to stand tall and strong, serving as an example to others whose faith needs to be bolstered.

To a certain extent, that is a good thing. I need to have faith. I have been commanded to not worry. Scripture tells me that I should be fulfilled by Christ Himself, seeing all else simply as blessing from His hand.

There comes a point, however, when I must also be desperate.

Make me know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day. Psalm 25:4-5

David knew that the secret of true spiritual growth lay in his desperation. So many of his writings show that his heart would not be satisfied without evidence of God's presence. He needed to be fed by God's Word. Praise served as his only comfort. Worship brought life to his bones. His greatest victories proceeded from his moments of greatest desperation.

Faith finds its strength when we choose to live in full reliance on Christ instead of in the throes of desperation for physical and emotional relief. But true growth only occurs when our spirits are desperate for Christ Himself.

Let's be a desperate people today.