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“Out of the midst of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.” 2 Corinthians 8:2 (NIV)

Desperation always takes us to a deeper place. For some it turns their hearts away from the only One who can transform their emptiness. Cheap imitations are ready and poised to fill us with temporary hope that washes away in the rain. Led down unknown paths, we easily find ourselves deeper down rather than rising up. Bound and chained by our own failed solutions, desperation’s cry for deliverance fades in the distance.
Those who seek God allow desperation to draw their hearts closer to His – the One who overflows emptiness with joy. Leaping over puddles of discontent and raw emotion, desperation finds its home nestled under the shadow of God’s wings. Protected. Covered. Nourished. A mind fixed not distracted or wandering. Hopeful and trusting despite the inevitable circumstances.

So how does severe trial and extreme poverty well up into rich generosity – a reaching out when the inner soul is vulnerable, exposed and broken?

Under the umbrella of God’s love, desperation births generosity – the moving of one’s focus from self and lack to glimpsing the world through His eyes. That’s exactly where we find the Macedonian church. Faced with severe trials, persecution and poverty, their spirits soared up and out. The secret ingredient – an unwavering trust in the One who conquered death with resurrecting hope. Remove the essence of hope and you lose the fragrance of joy. The sweet aroma of one being lifted up in the midst of desperation, clinging to God’s promises and nestled in His arms produces a generous offering that amazes our King. A brokenness He will not deny.

Desperation offers a choice – to pull away or draw closer. The temptation will be strong and convincing to deny the goodness of our God. The questions will loom larger than life. But if we choose to stay immersed in His word then we can’t help but see His loving kindness, patience, power, strength, justice, wisdom – everything and more than enough for all we need. The God of our Bible is the God who hovers close and delights in surprising us with His greater glory.

“Father, take us to a deeper place – a closer walk. Lift our spirits as we dance around your throne praising Your name – Your grace is enough.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life