Wealth of the Wilderness: A Middle Eastern Pathway for Transformation through Difficult Seasons

by Rebekah Joy

Often when we think of a wilderness season, we associate it with words like “difficult” and “long”—descriptors of its form, which is a distinctly Western way of perceiving it. Wealth of the Wilderness offers a cultural lens adjustment, helping us see wilderness through a Middle Eastern lens so we can better grasp its function. Wilderness is neither the start nor the destination; rather, it is an in-between space that allows for transformation and transition from one phase to another. Wilderness is a place of necessary change. How we choose to steward wilderness seasons directly impacts what we receive from them. Wealth of the Wilderness is an invitation to develop a halakha—Hebrew for “a way of walking and living”—that positions us to inherit the unique riches available in and through wilderness seasons. Ten postures form the framework of Wealth of the Wilderness, each with a relevant Hebrew word as its foundation. When we embrace the becoming that wilderness offers, we are positioned to inherit deposits and shed unnecessary baggage so we can weather wilderness seasons—indeed, all of life—more effectively.

201 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2020

Reviews

[Keith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebekah Joy's book truly amazed me. It is all about spiritual formation and learning not only to embrace, but thrive in relationship with God and personal growth through the wilderness seasons of our lives. There's nothing 'pie-in-the-sky' about it. It is a sober vision of formation from an authentic person who has obviously experienced time in the wilderness both literally and metaphorically.

What makes this book stand out from the rest is Joy's deep understanding of the biblical text, history, land, culture, and application. i was amazed by how she handled everything from desert spiritually to catching the undertones and connections of biblical narratives and how they inform one another and ultimately our own lives and walk with God.

Joy's book is an invitation toward personal and spiritual growth in daily life with God through the most arid conditions life can bring. It rings true. It beckons us not just to hold on, but to be drawn in.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really thought provoking. Gave me a lot to consider and think about