The desert is necessary sometimes.

This weekend I had to make a decision to leave a friend in the desert. Yes, I do actually live in the desert, but that's not what I mean. I have a friend who has made some really bad decisions recently. The person is probably past the brink of losing their family. I was being asked to provide assistance. I wouldn't do it. The assistance would have been enabling the person to avoid consequences of their actions. My friend needs to hit bottom, and I can't be a cushion. I would normally be the first to provide help, but sometimes helping is any help. That paradox hurts me, and I know it disappoints my friend. God provides us with desert experiences sometimes to challenge us and refine us. There are lessons that cannot be learned any other way. I've felt as though I've had sand between my spiritual toes from time to time. I pray that my friend can use this experience to make new and better choices.