Okay, this is the blog I need to read. But first I need to write it! Waiting well is not my strong suit. Am I ever going to get it right?

This year I’ve been reading My Utmost for His Highest, the classic devotional by Oswald Chambers. I read it decades ago, then received it as a gift eleven years ago. Apparently, this was my year to read it again. (I had waited long enough.)

Sometimes we find ourselves in those long, silent seasons of waiting. Well, not really silent. God continues to teach, lead, inspire, and bless. I’m just not hearing . . . what I want . . . yet.

God got my attention with Oswald’s reading for April 4. “If we are willing to wait, we will see God pointing out that we have been interested only in His blessings, instead of in God Himself.”

Ow! That hit home. Like God’s children in the wilderness, I focused on what I wanted God to give me. I focused on me, not Him.

How can I make the shift? While reading God’ Word, I can ask: What is God teaching me about Him? I can strive to view Him separate from His blessings.

When we focus on who God is, we can be reassured that He is in control. He is working behind the scenes. He is worthy of thanks, praise, and honor. He loves us beyond measure. He is eternal and sees the present and future. He knows all. God has a plan and He is good.

The prophet, Isaiah, reminds us, “Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” (Isaiah 30:18).

May your hearts be encouraged, my friends!