Even when we see some fruit in our lives and feel a joyful hope in being planted by Christ, there are times we feel barren. Our prayers may seem lifeless, our love cold, our faith weak. Every grace feels like it's wilting under the heat. In these moments, what should we do?

Isaiah's message speaks to us: "Sing, O barren, break forth and cry aloud." But what can we sing about? The present may feel empty, and the past too.

Yet, we can sing of Jesus. We can remember the times our Redeemer visited us, or if not, we can praise his great love that brought him from heaven for our salvation. Let's return to the cross.

Remember, my heart, once burdened, you found relief there. So, go back to Calvary. Perhaps that cross can bring you life again. What is my barrenness but a stage for God's power? What is my desolation but the backdrop for his love? I'll bring my poverty, helplessness, my shame, and my struggles. I'll tell him I'm still His child. With trust in His faithful heart, even in my barrenness, I'll sing and cry out.

Sing, believer. It will lift your heart and others' too. Sing now, for feeling ashamed of barrenness is the first step to fruitfulness. As God spurs us towards fruit, He'll soon cover us with abundance. Our barrenness is painful, but God's presence is sweet. Our awareness of need drives us to Christ, and that's where we find true fruitfulness.