By: Pastor Daniel Ethridge
Everyone goes through a wilderness season at some point in life. It may be a season of loss, grief, unemployment, relational strain, or spiritual dryness. Whatever it looks like for you, the Bible makes it clear, God doesn’t waste the wilderness. In 1 Samuel 22–26, we see David, anointed as king but not yet crowned, running for his life and hiding in the wilderness. He didn’t choose this path, but God used it to shape him for the throne. So, how should you live in a wilderness season? Here are three biblical truths from David’s journey:
1. Find Comfort in God’s People
When David was on the run, God surrounded him with the right people. Family, prophets, warriors, even a foreign king all played a role in supporting David.
“Everyone who was in distress, in debt, and bitter in soul gathered to him… about four hundred men.” – 1 Samuel 22:2
These weren’t perfect people, but they were God-sent people. In the wilderness, don’t isolate. Lean into the church family God has given you. If you’re going through something hard, get into a group. Serve. Don’t just attend church, be the church.
2. Find Direction from God’s Word
Over and over again, David “inquired of the Lord.” He didn’t make decisions based on fear or frustration; he sought God’s will.
“Then David inquired of the Lord again. And the Lord answered him…” – 1 Samuel 23:4
Wilderness seasons require daily dependence on God. This is where your faith gets real. It’s not about yesterday’s Word; it’s about today’s direction. Open your Bible. Ask for wisdom. He’ll give it.
3. Find Deliverance by God’s Hand
Twice, David had the opportunity to kill Saul and take the throne by force. But he didn’t. He waited on God to exalt him in due time.
“May the Lord judge between me and you… but my hand shall not be against you.” – 1 Samuel 24:12
David teaches us that godliness, not circumstances, should guide our actions. God doesn’t just want to deliver you from the wilderness, He wants to deliver you through it and shape you while you’re in it.
Your Wilderness Isn’t the End
I don’t know what you’re walking through today, but I want you to know this: God sees you, God is with you, and God is working in the waiting. The same God who provided for David will provide for you. The same God who guided David will guide you. If you’re in a wilderness season, don’t walk through it alone. Let us walk with you. Plan your visit at libertylive.church/visit or fill out a Connect Card at libertylive.church/connect so we can support you in prayer and community.
God’s not done with your story. Keep trusting Him, even in the wilderness.
