I can see the way out of the desert. I know which way to go. And some days I head in that direction.

The problem is there are other days I go back the other way. Or walk in circles. Or meander aimlessly.

What I wanted was for the desert to miraculously evaporate when I found the way out, or for the oasis to spring up in front of my face.

Here’s the thing about deserts. To get out, you have to travel at least as far as you did on your way in.

The only way to make progress, the only way to keep the journey out from taking even longer, is to stick with it, day after day.

Do what you know you must do to survive and thrive and get closer to the end.

Even while things are still dry.

Even when you can’t see the destination past the dune.

Even as it seems like it can never end.

Even if it feels pointless to keep going.

Keep going.

Just remember that God is walking alongside, even as He’s preparing the pool and the shade that will greet me once I find my way out.

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