The purpose of the wilderness is to return to minister. The wilderness is not an end in itself. It is not the goal, but the means to the goal. It is the place where God teaches the overcomers that He is sovereign, that He is their protection, their refuge and strength. It is the place where overcomers learn that their lives are in God’s hands and completely at His disposal. 

Jones, Dr. Stephen E.. The Purpose of the Wilderness . God's Kingdom Ministries. Kindle Edition.