Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:1–5
You shall remember all the way which Yahweh your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, to test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not.
Reflection
Looking back over Israel’s long desert wanderings, Moses tells the people something surprising: the wilderness was not wasted time. God led them there to humble them, to test them, to know what was in their hearts. The manna, the thirst, the long stretches of uncertainty—all of it was a classroom for trust.
Desert seasons peel away illusions of self-sufficiency. In Egypt, Israel had predictable food and brutal slavery. In the wilderness, they had daily dependence and a God who walked with them. Every morning, manna arrived just for that day. They could not stockpile grace. They had to remember.
We, too, are forgetful people. When circumstances tighten, we remember our fears and forget God’s faithfulness. Lent invites us to remember differently: to look back and see the quiet provisions we missed, the small miracles we’ve explained away, the ways God has carried us even when our feet felt heavy and blistered.
The wilderness is less about God discovering what is in our hearts and more about us discovering what is in His. We learn that He is patient when we grumble, present when we feel lost, faithful when we are confused.
Today, let remembering become an act of worship. Trace the thread of grace through your past deserts and let it shape your trust in the one you’re walking now.
A Prayer of Presence
Faithful God,
Teach me to remember rightly. Open my eyes to the subtle ways You have sustained me. Let the memory of Your past faithfulness strengthen my trust in this present wilderness. – Amen
Practice for Today
Make a simple “wilderness gratitude list.” Recall at least three past hard seasons. Under each, write one way God provided, guided, or held you that you can see more clearly now.
Journaling Prompt
How has God used a past wilderness season to deepen my trust, reshape my desires, or reveal more of His character?
Carry This Prayer With You Today
Breathe in: Faithful in every desert...
Breathe out: … I remember You
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