They did not thirst when he led them through the deserts; he made water flow for them from the rock; he split the rock and water gushed out. (ISAIAH 48:21 NIV)

Disruption is indeed an equal-opportunity employer. Being a follower of Christ does not somehow exempt us from hardship or seasons where it seems as if we’re wandering alone in a desert wasteland. To the contrary, the pathway to higher purpose and promise almost always travels through a valley of pain… the desert. Perhaps it seems like others have abandoned you or severely disappointed you. What happened may have been unfair or downright evil, but God uses everything as a necessary part of your faith journey. There are some dimensions of inner destiny that can only be developed via difficulty. It’s not punishment; it’s preparation and realignment. When we shift our perspective, hardship is like weight that builds muscle, endurance, and strength. The good news is that you’re never alone. You’re never deserted. You’re being developed for a greater deployment.

How has a recent disappointment chipped away at your faith? How is God inviting you to shift your perspective and see a bigger message and mission at work?

Pray:

Lord, help me to wear situations loosely. I’m not entitled to have things go my way. Build in me the type of spiritual insight that sees Your hand in the middle of every hardship. Amen.

This is an excerpt from 100 Days of Believing Bigger by Marshawn Evans Daniels -  a devotional available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.