VW Bus parked along the beach

Do I have Wanderlust or “Wonderlust”?

by Vania Tan
THEME: WANDERLUST

Ever wished the Lord would pluck you out of your misery or stagnant life and place you somewhere else instead? Some might add, “Where the sun, sea and beach are please!”

At some point, we probably spent a good amount of time calculating our days of leave, seeking out cheap airfare deals and travel tours. These captivating headlines shout at us: “A three-day-two-night shopping trip in Bangkok”, “A week of food paradise in Taiwan”, “A tour for taste buds in Japan”, “An exploration in the clear waters of the Maldives” or even a world trip in 80 days!

Yet after every trip, we experience that same familiar feeling we all know too well—a slap back into reality, where our physical body returns but our minds are still wandering. No doubt traveling and exploring other cultures are things most of us love to do, but when wanderlust turns into a deep desire to elope, escape or migrate because we are discontented with our present state, we could be falling into wonderlust instead.

With discontentment comes the desire for a new lifestyle, a new home or country to live in, or even a new identity among new friends. These thoughts become unhealthy when they flood our minds, stir our hearts, and tickle our senses.

See what Acts 17:24–26 says: “The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place” (ESV).

The very last sentence may have piqued your curiosity. Since God has determined the places we reside beforehand, perhaps it is wise then that we commit our heart, soul, and mind to wherever the Lord has called us to be and serve Him there faithfully. Count God’s blessings in our lives and be assured that He has placed us where we are for a reason. For some, there might be a time and season for change. But until God tells us otherwise, let’s continually seek and live out God’s call. He can use us mightily to serve Him, only if we let Him.

4 replies
  1. Steven R. Posey
    Steven R. Posey says:

    I’m not sure what this means but I had a dream this morning and the word “wonderlust” was spoken. I knew it was important in my dream but was imbarrassed because I didn’t know for sure what it meant. I thought it had to due with lusting as in a sexual way. But the word stayed with me and even in my dream I felt I needed to Google it to make sure. I Googled it about 20 minutes ago and it brought me to ur website. I was pleasantly surprised! Everything on ur website spoke to me directly. I have felt a few time in the last couple months that I just wanted to pack up and leave and not tell anyone because I’m not sure anyone would care. But I know there are a few that do care. I even come across Bible scripture that I wasn’t expecting. Before I come across the scripture I told God that I wasn’t sure if the dream was from Him or not. But after seeing the scripture it is hard not to think this is from Him. Not sure where this is leading but I look forward to investigating ur websites and learning more about you (in a good way). Anyway, not even sure why I am writing this in ur comment section. I guess in case someone there may actually read this. For what it’s worth, thank you.

    Reply
  2. Daniela
    Daniela says:

    Muchas gracias!!! es perfecto este escrito para mi, buscaba unir mis experiencias de viajes aun mas con la voluntad de DIOS y leerte me ha permitido fortalecer mi espíritu Wonderlust .

    Dios te bendiga!!

    Reply
  3. Vicki Conley
    Vicki Conley says:

    I just have to post, I don’t know if you’re still around or even a real person Vania Tan but I did a google search on the difference between WANDERLUST OR WONDERLUST? and your post was on page 1. I gasped when I clicked on the page. Your picture is the picture on my business card and one of my websites. Either God or the Universe led me to your words. Thank you and sending good vibes to you my friend and may wanderlust lead your way. Vicki

    Reply

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