Longing Fulfilled

“Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4, NIV).

God gave me eyes to see…

Two years ago, I held up a LONGING to my Heavenly Father. “Should I write a book? Isn’t that a lot of work? Is it a selfish goal?”

I felt the answer land softly upon my heart. “Delight yourself in Me, and I will give you the desires of your heart.” 

Really? Can I do this? I’ll need a lot of help! He provided all I needed, every step of the way.

In January this year, I knew my LONGING was being filled. I sat holding the proof of my book, Karate Mama. My heart overflowed with gratitude. God is so good to me!

February first, something unexpected happened! Thanks to a faithful launch team and an unusual book category, it looked like my book was on the verge of success! As I read, “Top New Release in Martial Arts Biographies,” and “#6 in Martial Arts Biographies, #473 in Christian Personal Growth,” my mind began spinning with crazy thoughts.

All those jokes we made about my book being a New York Times best seller, could that actually come to pass? 

Over the next two days, I watched my numbers drop to more expected levels. Oh well, I was tempted to feel discouraged.

Then, I remembered all of my conversations with God. I never asked Him for fame or fortune. I asked Him to use my writing to encourage one person who needed my story to help them keep trusting Him. 

I remembered a favorite poem: “If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain…” (Emily Dickinson). That was the prayer. I wanted to touch someone’s heart with my words.

I thought about that beautiful launch team and the messages I received as they previewed my story. Joy returned!

Abba Father, You have already done it! The LONGING of my heart has been fulfilled. Great are You, LORD, worthy of my praise. You delight in filling Your children with joy.