God Met Me in the Desert
Shared by Poncho · 10/4/2026
The Longing for Connection Have you ever felt the peace of being in God's presence? What would you do if you lost it? I experienced this firsthand. I grew up in a vibrant church with a supportive family, but when I went to college, I felt my connection with God disappear, leading me into a spiritual desert that was dry, lonely, and, at times, awkward. Despite academic success and a bustling social life, I sensed something vital was missing. Though surrounded by party invitations, I chose a different path, believing life held more than fleeting pleasures, even as God's presence grew distant. Faced with that reality, I had a crucial decision to make: should I abandon my pursuit of God for temporary distractions, or continue seeking Him amid spiritual emptiness? I resolved to remain committed, resisting the temptation to rebel, even as weeks stretched into months without signs of renewal. Committing to the Journey I clung to my faith, holding onto the wisdom of Psalm 139:7-12 and, specifically, Exodus 33:15 (NIV), where Moses told God, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here." That verse fueled my resolve to pursue my spiritual journey. Despite grueling daily commutes from Mexico to the U.S. for classes, I committed to attending church, even on Friday nights. A pivotal moment came one Friday evening after a taxing day, when my mother asked, "Why aren't you at church?" Confused, I realized I had lost track of the days. Faced with a choice, I wrestled internally: should I push through fatigue to attend church, or succumb to the comfort of staying home? Ultimately, determination prevailed, and I dressed for church, honoring my promise to seek God. God Met Me in the Desert That evening, something transformative happened during worship. As the music enveloped the congregation, I felt a compelling draw to the altar. In that moment, I experienced an intimate connection with God, feeling cradled in God's arms, being safe and known. That marked a significant turning point for me, teaching me that perseverance in faith is crucial, even amid disconnection. God is always knocking; it doesn't matter what you've done. So don't give up! Even if you're angry or afraid, God isn't disappointed in you. He will love you and help you; you are never alone.