Yesterday evening at Bible Study, the subject of discussion was the idea of ‘desert times’.  The desert played an important role in Bible times and was the setting for many significant events.  In addition, many leading Bible figures had life-changing experiences in the desert.  It was suggested that the desert can be representative of trying times in our lives today.  That is to say that times of loss, times of pain, times of difficulty, times of being lost or without direction, times of uncertainty, etc. are ‘desert times’.  If we are faithful during these ‘desert times’ our testimony is increased as we come out of them, just as the Israelites’ testimony did as they entered the Promised Land; forty years of provision for food, water, clothing, etc. showed God as a refuge and a faithful provider for the needs of His children.  It is during these ‘desert times’ that our relationship with the Lord grows closer, wider, deeper, more meaningful and more trusting.  It is through these ‘desert times’ that we are blessed by God, for without them, we would not recognize His goodness.  It is through these ‘desert times’ that the character and nature of the Living God is revealed and we are able to know Him in ways that, were it not for these ‘desert times’, we would never have the blessing to experience.  So as I sat listening to the discussion, I remembered something I had read in God’s perfect timing earlier that very morning which I would like to share with you here.  I researched the internet to find the author, but was unsuccessful in turning up who penned this:

IF YOU NEVER …

If you never felt pain, how would you know that I am a Healer?
If you never had to pray, how would you know that I am a Deliverer?
If you never had a trial, how could you call yourself an overcomer?
If you never felt sadness, how would you know that I am a Comforter?
If you never made a mistake, how would you know that I am a forgiver?
If you knew all, how would you know that I will answer your questions?
If you never were in trouble, how would you know that I will come to your rescue?
If you never were broken, how would you know that I can make you whole?
If you never had a problem, how would you know that I can solve them?
If you never had any suffering, how would you know what I went through?
If you never went through the fire, how would you become pure?
If I gave you all things, how could you appreciate them?
If I never corrected you, how would you know that I love you?
If you had all power, how would you learn to depend on me?
If your life was perfect, what would you need me for?
-author unknown