The Miracle in a Dry Place
God's miracle of grace transforms dry experiences into blessings, providing consolation, provision, and peace in the midst of hardship.
John Henry Jowett preaches about the miracles of grace, emphasizing how God can turn dry and difficult experiences into sources of blessing and consolation. He highlights the idea that even in the toughest times, God's providence goes before His faithful followers, ensuring that their needs are foreseen and provided for. Jowett encourages not to fear when faced with wilderness experiences, as God is present everywhere, providing sustenance and unexpected blessings. He assures that in every situation, whether in desert places or lush meadows, God's provision is abundant, offering peace and comfort.
Text
PSALM cvii. 33-43.
"He turneth ... the dry ground into water-springs." This is one of the
miracles of grace. The good Lord makes a dry experience the fountain of
blessing. I pass into an apparently waste place and I find riches of
consolation. Even in "the valley of the shadow" I come upon "green
pastures" and "still waters." I find flowers in the ruts of the hardest
roads if I am in "the way of God's commandments." God's providence is the
pioneer of every faithful pilgrim. "His blessed feet have gone before."
What I shall need is already foreseen, and foresight with the Lord means
forethought and provision. Every hour gives the loyal disciples surprises
of grace.
Let me therefore not fear when the path of duty turns into the wilderness.
The wilderness is as habitable with God as the crowded city, and in His
fellowship my bread and water are sure. The Lord has strange manna for the
children of disappointment, and He makes water to "gush forth from the
rock." Duty can lead me nowhere without Him, and His provision is abundant
both in "the thirsty desert and the dewy mead." There will be a spring at
the foot of every hill, and I shall find "lilies of peace" in the lonely
valley of humiliation.
Sermon Outline
- The Miracle of Grace
- God's Providence as a Guide
- Faith in the Wilderness
- The wilderness is habitable with God
- God's provision is abundant in all places
- Finding peace in the midst of humiliation
Key Quotes
“He turneth ... the dry ground into water-springs.” — John Henry Jowett
“The Lord has strange manna for the children of disappointment, and He makes water to 'gush forth from the rock'.” — John Henry Jowett
“There will be a spring at the foot of every hill, and I shall find 'lilies of peace' in the lonely valley of humiliation.” — John Henry Jowett
Application Points
- When faced with difficult circumstances, trust in God's ability to turn them into blessings.
- Recognize that God's providence is guiding you, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.
- Have faith that God's provision is abundant and available in all places, including the wilderness and the desert.