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On The Back Side of the Desert: Part 1

Written by Joyce Simmons

This is the first in a four-part series for ministry leaders who feel wrung out, stressed out or burned out.

Why we need more than a calling

For 30 years, my husband Bill and I have seen firsthand the challenges faced by ministry leaders, and are we are passionate about holding up their sometimes-weary hands. Most ministry leaders we know are driven by their true desire to fulfill what they believe God has called them to do. However, we’ve seen time again that being driven simply by calling can cause some problems down the ministry highway. A calling is not enough to keep us going.

Abruptly, our calling may be challenged when our journey takes us through curves in the path we weren’t prepared for

, such as disapproval, criticism, unfair decisions, health problems or relationships woes. We may find ourselves sweeping from our mental closet the nagging feelings of weariness and growing resentment of the lack of God’s concern. Natural giftings and abilities no longer seem enough and the emptiness we have witnessed in the eyes of others is suddenly reflected in our own. Did we miss God’s leading? Did we veer from the path of blessing because of bad decisions, poor judgment and secret sin? Is it because of the incompetence, selfishness or lack of character in the people we have tried to serve?

The back side of the desert

Perhaps right now you find yourself camping in a place of loneliness, bareness and weariness, often known as the “back side of the desert.” Here you find yourself questioning God, yourself and others.  If so don’t give up, in fact — take heart. This may be the very place God will bring you His revelation to empower your ministry beyond the goals and dreams you had set for your life!

Camping with Moses

Moses certainly knew the back side of the desert. For 40 years he was spared from the pain and mistreatment his people were experiencing. Raised in the Pharaoh’s home he received honor and power. Once seeing the condition of his people his position took a drastic turn causing his position to dissipate. Ripped from his comfort zone Moses retreated to a desolate place and humbly accepted a position, far below his capability, to watch over his father’s flocks. Can you imagine the questions Moses must have been asking himself during the days of sheep watching? Why, God? What have I missed? What happened?

Funny thing about down times, in the quietness of the moment often thoughts are unscrambled, priorities reassembled and voices clearly heard. There in the stillness, in the most illogical place, a miracle happened. Not in the probable place but the improbable. On the backside of the desert Moses met God and God revealed Moses’ personal assignment. Here, Moses made a personal choice. As the bush began to burn with the Spirit of God, Moses chose to leave what he was doing and turn toward God. Exodus 3:3-4 tells us, “’I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.’ So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush.” Not until Moses decided to turn toward the presence of God did God reveal Himself.

Pause for new revelation

If you find yourself on the backside of the desert, I invite you to turn aside and look at what God wants to reveal to you. By taking the familiar daily path, surrounded with familiar duties and stressful schedules, are you pausing long enough for new revelation? Are you tempted to live on yesterday’s plans and goals? Are you allowing others to be the fuel and vehicle for ministry, rather than depending on God alone?

Your first step out of the desert is to turn toward the presence of God today. God offers a continuous stream of wisdom, insight and new direction all to be discovered when we make time to sit in His presence. God continues to reveals Himself in new ways not always logical to us. Faithfully seek, serve and surrender, for in the quiet time His voice is unmistakable.

Next - Part 2: Don’t Miss Your Appointment

Tags: Bible study, Joyce Simmons, leadership, ministry, spirituality, Women