Devotional
Hagar found herself in the wilderness—alone, afraid, and uncertain of her future. She didn’t choose to be there, but the choices of others and her own response to mistreatment had led her to this desolate place. Many of us have experienced wilderness moments. Sometimes we end up there because of our own choices; other times, we’re there because of what others have done to us. The wilderness represents those seasons of life marked by isolation, confusion, and desperation. But the wilderness, while difficult, is not devoid of God’s presence. In fact, it’s often in the wilderness that we encounter God most profoundly. For Hagar, the wilderness became the place where she met the God who sees. When we find ourselves in wilderness seasons, we have a choice. We can become bitter, allowing our circumstances to define us, or we can look for God in the midst of our pain. We can’t control what has happened to us, but we can decide where we’ll let it take us. If you’re in a wilderness today, take heart. God sees you there. He knows your name, your story, and your pain. And He is seeking you out, just as He sought Hagar.
Bible Verse
“The angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur.” – Genesis 16:7
Reflection Question
How have you experienced God’s presence in your own wilderness moments?
Quote “The wilderness is full of victims. Some victims of their own choices, others victims of the choices of others.”
Prayer
God, thank You for being the One who sees me in my wilderness. When I feel alone and forgotten, remind me that You are seeking me out. Help me to recognize Your presence even in my most difficult seasons. Use my wilderness to draw me closer to You. Amen.