Since moving to Fayetteville, Arkansas last June, we’d been living in a duplex that felt a lot smaller than the house we had in Little Rock. My kids never did like it. They missed their old house. I really didn’t mind it though. The location was great, the yard was taken care of and the utilities were low.

Over the weekend, we moved to a house just 1/4 mile from Razorback Stadium. It’s a great location for ministering to college students, which Robyn (my wife) does full-time. The rent is a stretch, but we believe God led us to it. Our kids already love it. Even Ivy (our dog) seems happier.

Last night, as I sat in the living room and thought about where we were now living, I realized God had fulfilled some desires I’d expressed to Him many years ago.

First, I had hoped to one day live in Northwest Arkansas. I hadn’t spent much time in this area of the state, but wanted to live here. Second, I had a desire to live in a college town. God has not only fulfilled both desires, but has put us practically right on the campus.

I’m grateful for what God has done.

I’m reminded once again that God’s timing is very different than mine. When I have a desire, I want it fulfilled right now. I don’t want to wait for years. That’s just not God’s way though.

Abraham and Sarah had to wait 25 years before giving birth to Isaac. David was anointed as king, but then spent years running for his life from Saul. Joseph languished in prison, seemingly forgotten, before ascending to second-in-command in Egypt.

Has God put a desire in your heart? Has it gone unfulfilled? For a long time?

Remember that God is working out a much bigger plan. He is orchestrating people and events to accomplish His eternal purposes. It’s far bigger than your desire. He’s also working on your character, preparing you for what lies ahead. Allow Him to use your current circumstances and relationships to develop you.

Resist the tendency to get discouraged, to feel like you’re stuck in your present circumstances with no way out. He hasn’t forgotten you and He’s not limited by anything. When the timing is right, God will do whatever needs to be done to fulfill the desire He’s given you.

Trust Him. Be patient. Let Him be God. In the meantime, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)