I enjoy word study.

Especially the study of Bible words!

And recently I learned something worth sharing!

I gleaned it from a Jewish Believer, adding to the authenticity of the truth I am about to relate.

The Hebrew noun for “desert” (that dry, barren land where Israel spent so much time) is spelled “midbar.” It is used a total of 270 times in the Old Testament!

But “dry places” can not only be literal life experiences, but metaphorical ones too!

Any Chrisitan can to through a “dry spell” in his or her life for Christ. Those “hard, discouraging times.”

But, and here’s what I am excited to tell you, the word for “desert” comes from (is derived from) the Hebrew verb “dabar.” And that means “to speak!” To communicate! (“Dabar” is found an amazing 2,635 times in the Old Testament!)

Now … let me draw a spiritual truth from these two Hebrew words. Words that to me, a lately as last month, were unrelated!

When I am in my MIDBAR (hard, dry, discouraging time) … perhaps that is exactly when the Lord wants to DABAR (to speak, communicate) with me most clearly!

Wow!

This though nearly makes my desert experiences (as was the case with Moses the man of God) “holy ground” events! (Exodus 3:5)

Friend, next time you’re in the “desert,” pray what young Samuel was taught to pray years ago.

“Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth.” 1st Samuel 3:9!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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