“There is a peace that springs soon after sorrow,
Of hope surrendered not of hope fulfilled;
A peace that does not look upon tomorrow,
But calmly on the storm that it has stilled.
A peace that lives not now in joy’s excesses,
Nor in the happy life of love secure; But in the unerring strength the heart possesses,
Of conflicts won while learning to endure.” (Lettie Cowman)

Sometimes life seems hopeless during those very hard times when “hope must be surrendered.” I am thankful for a book that truly brings hope and touches my heart as few books have. It is STREAMS in the DESERT by Lettie Burd Cowman (published as Mrs. Charles Cowman).

It was introduced to me in the 1980’s by a friend, and I have been blessed so much by it that I have given copies through the years in hopes of blessing others.

After years of significant missionary work in Japan, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cowman were forced to return home to America due to his major health decline. Charles suffered his physical pain, and Lettie suffered emotional pain as he slowly died. During this time she wrote the daily devotional that came from her personal experiences of both bitter difficulties and sweet fellowship with God.

The source of the book’s title is Isaiah 35:6: “Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” Each day’s thought-provoking reading includes an inspiring Bible passage and another author’s uplifting quotation.

This book is a best-seller, was translated in 15 languages, and has been reprinted many times. After all, who doesn’t suffer and need a message of hope that God has purpose even in suffering? Lettie frequently declared that she did not write the book; God gave it. Through STREAMS in the DESERT He has given much hope, and I have been a recipient of hope found within its pages.

I challenge readers, especially those needing hope, to read one of the short daily devotions in this book each day for one year. I think you will agree that this valuable resource is indeed full of hope.