Finding Restoration in the Desert: Embracing God's Renewal

The Heat of the Desert

Opening a door and stepping outside into the midday desert feels like opening an oven door. Life in the desert is challenging, but God promises to restore us as we venture out. The heat envelops you, much like waves in the ocean, each one threatening to take your breath away. With every step, your feet feel the inferno rising from the ground. The sun reflects off the sand and rock, causing your eyes to squint. Sweat beads on your skin, evaporating almost instantly.

If your home has air conditioning, a swamp cooler, or even a fan, the urge to stay inside is almost overwhelming. Finding shade offers only a brief respite on your journey. The longer you remain outside, the stronger your desire becomes for water and protection from the scorching sun.

Photo by Ryan Cheng on Unsplash

](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/818b4b_b0ae87b3c13a44388732cebe9d654ede~mv2.jpg "God will Restore Us in Scorched places.")

The Life of Isaiah

Isaiah lived in the desert during a time when Judah faced possible destruction by the Kingdom of Assyria. However, due to God's great mercy, Israel was protected. God chose Isaiah as the prophet during this tumultuous period. Despite the people's rebellion against God, the prophet's teachings led them to repentance. If you feel burned out and overheated in the desert of life, perhaps it's time to seek restoration through the teachings of this Old Testament prophet.

The Power of Fasting

In Chapter 58, Isaiah explores how the spiritual discipline of fasting serves as a means to save the oppressed. He outlines a pattern for observing a fast and the promised blessings that come with obedience. Isaiah 6-7 describes the practice of fasting, while the blessings are detailed in verses 8-9b. This pattern is repeated in verses 9c-12.

Last week, we examined the beginning of verse 11a. This week, we will focus on God's restoration in verse 11b. During times of feeling depleted, Isaiah 58:11 serves as a deep well of renewal and restoration.

11 And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Isaiah 58:11

God's Promises in Verse 11

Verse 11 begins with "Adonai Eli Moreh," meaning "My Lord and Master," who will continually guide us. Verse 11b reminds us that God will:

1. Restore. God will restore us. He brings us back into His presence through Jesus’ death on the Cross. We can have fellowship with the King.

   
   

2. Revitalize. Our vision for the future will be revitalized. God replenishes our hopes and dreams. Sometimes He changes our dreams; other times, He uses them to bless us.

   
   

3. Renew. As we walk through life's valleys, God will renew us. He is present in the deepest places, on mountaintops, and everywhere in between. When we feel dried and utterly spent, He refreshes our innermost being. No place is too remote or forgotten.

   
   

4. Refocus. God cares about our hearts and desires. He will refocus us to serve where He is working. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that He has plans for us and calls us to join Him in His work.

   
   

Meditating on Isaiah 58:11

As we meditate on this part of Isaiah 58:11, consider the following practices:

• Spend Time with God. No agenda, no timelines. Spend time praising Him and remembering all of His attributes.

  
  

• Give Your Hopes and Dreams to God. Allow Him to change, refine, and modify them. Embrace new dreams and release those things that drain you.

  
  

• Record Your Thoughts. Write about what is draining you or causing worry. Ask God to heal you and establish boundaries where needed.

  
  

• Focus on God's Path. Put your doubts and insecurities into God’s mighty hands. Step out with confidence in His presence.

  
  

• Write a Prayer. Share your thoughts with God. Praise Him, release burdens, and embrace new dreams. Ask Him to remove doubts and insecurities.

  
  

Embracing God's Restoration

God will restore us as we grow and change. He draws us into His embrace to receive renewal, revitalization, and refocus. Summer is a wonderful season to spend time with Him, whether on vacation or during a staycation.

Discuss where you see God changing your dreams with friends or family. Ask them to pray for you and seek their support.

Let Us Pray

Adonai, You are the God who restores us. Restore, renew, revitalize, and refocus us during our trials and wilderness experiences. Show us what we need to release and where You want us to go. Keep us in Your embrace. Amen.

Conclusion: The Journey of Restoration

In conclusion, life in the desert can be daunting. However, through God's guidance and the teachings of Isaiah, we can find hope and restoration. Embrace the journey, and remember that God is always with you, ready to renew your spirit and refocus your path. Whether you are facing challenges or seeking clarity, trust in His promises.

As you navigate through life's deserts, may you find the strength to persevere and the courage to embrace the changes ahead.