Paul: Desert DaysSample

Slowing Down

Paul, known for his evangelistic endeavors and the chaos that often followed, can also be seen in a different light in the desert.

My family and I had been planning a vacation for a while, and we finally settled on Big Bend National Park as our destination. We were very excited to explore the park and see all the natural beauty it had to offer. The drive was quite long. We spent hours on the road before finally arriving at the visitor center. We paid the fee and got in. Despite the long drive, we were all in good spirits. We had a great time listening to music and enjoying the scenery.

We had to drive even more to get to the best spots in the park. However, I made a mistake. I had been keeping a reasonable speed on the highway, but I didn’t realize that the speed limit had changed once we entered the park. So, I drove too fast and got pulled over by a park ranger. It was embarrassing, but my kids helped me get out of the ticket by being their cute selves. Although getting pulled over was a bit of a setback, we didn’t let it ruin our trip. We slowed down and continued exploring the park, taking in the fantastic views and natural wonders around us.

The desert can be a place of beauty and reflection, but it also requires us to slow down and be mindful of our surroundings. In Paul’s three years in the desert, God showed up and provided for his needs, even when it seemed impossible. When we find ourselves in chaos or uncertainty, we can trust that God will make a way where there seems to be no way. Like Paul, God sets us apart from our mother’s womb, and we can trust in His provision and guidance even in the desert.

As we reflect on Paul’s time in the desert, we can challenge ourselves to see our own ”deserts” in a new light. Instead of seeing them as times of isolation or abandonment, we can look at them as opportunities for growth and transformation. Whether we face uncertainty in our careers, relationships, or personal lives, we can trust that God is with us and will provide for our needs. We can slow down, be mindful, and look for beauty and purpose in times of difficulty. Let us embrace our deserts with faith and hope, knowing God is at work in us, transforming us into the people He created us to be.