04-09-25 part 1: Thirsty in the Wilderness: The Power of Praise, Presence, and Pursuit

1. Craving God in the Dry Places

Dr. Spoon dives deep into the powerful words of Psalm 63, a psalm written by David while he was in the wilderness of Judah. Despite his isolation and hardship, David passionately declares his desire for God: “My soul thirsts for You, my flesh longs for You.” Dr. Spoon draws a beautiful parallel between David’s physical wilderness and the spiritual “wilderness moments” we all experience—those dry, weary times when we desperately crave a touch from God. These are not signs of abandonment; they’re invitations to draw near. Like David, we’re called to seek God early and carry Him with us throughout the day.

2. The Sanctuary Still Matters

While it’s true that God speaks through nature—the ocean waves, the starlit sky, the quiet stillness of creation—Dr. Spoon makes it crystal clear: God is also in the sanctuary. There’s something special, even sacred, about meeting with God among His people. “Don’t give up on the church,” he urges. Bad experiences are real, but they don’t justify cutting ourselves off from the body of Christ. David longed to behold God’s glory in the sanctuary, and so should we. Whether the building is small or massive, traditional or modern, the Lord desires to meet with us when we gather in His name.

3. His Lovingkindness Is Better Than Life

One of the most powerful declarations in the Old Testament is found in Psalm 63:3—“Your lovingkindness is better than life.” Dr. Spoon explores the depth of this verse, explaining that without God’s love, even the best parts of life fall short. Real living starts with knowing and experiencing the love of God. And once we understand the depth of that kindness, the only reasonable response is praise. Dr. Spoon reminds us: there are far more verses in Scripture about giving thanks than about complaining—and for good reason. Gratitude is the posture of the spiritually healthy.

4. Praise as a Response, Not a Ritual

In closing, Dr. Spoon encourages believers to make praise their natural response to God’s goodness. Lifting hands, singing with joyful lips, and giving thanks in all things isn’t about religious performance—it’s about relationship. Praise is the proper response of someone who truly knows what it means to be loved by God. When we understand what He’s brought us through—and who He’s been through it all—how can we stay silent? Worship isn’t about what others are doing around you. It’s about you and the Lord. Let your lips reflect the joy your heart knows.