Caves, Caverns, Pits, and Prisons
Wednesday, November 1, 2023
“Every son or daughter that would have influence over others must have a time of hiddenness in their "Cherith Ravine." You perceive this as running into a ditch; I perceive it as running into my arms. Acquiring my power and grace is impossible unless you dwell for a time in my holy ravine, absorbing my strength and power. It is here I will give you provisions for yourself and for others. Do not despise your situation; embrace this time with me.” – Os Hillman
There are various descriptions of such a place in Scripture…
Noah labored for 120 years, preaching repentance while building a mammoth ship in the middle of a desert, amid constant taunting and ridicule (see Genesis 6:8-7:16; and 9:28-29).
Joseph was sold into slavery and later languished in prison for several years, falsely accused for a crime he didn’t commit (see Genesis 39-40).
Moses, after murdering an Egyptian construction foreman, hid out in the “backside of the desert” for 40 years (Exodus 2:15-3:1).
Samson was blinded and imprisoned, forced to perform manual labor while his enemies mocked him (see Judges 16:23-32).
David was chased by King Saul for several years, being forced to live in caves, in the wilderness, and in a foreign country to avoid being captured and killed (see I Samuel 18-31).
At God’s command, Elijah hid by the Brook Cherith while God supplied his physical needs by ravens bringing him bread and meat. When the brook dried up due to a drought, God then sent Elijah to live with an impoverished widow and her son, again miraculously providing for their welfare. Finally, Elijah ran and hid first under a broom tree and later in a cave from Queen Jezebel, who had promised to have him killed (see I Kings 19).
The list goes on, but the same theme continues throughout the thread: before God can use you greatly, He often tests you fully.
“Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.” Genesis 22:12 (BSB)
- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President
