Connection

I’ve noticed something unusual about my blogging lately. Several of the posts within the last few weeks have received a different sort of comment.

It’s not that the comments haven’t always been wonderful, but some of the ones I’ve received lately, along with emails from readers, have been deeper, more heartfelt. It’s as if I can sense the reader’s emotion and we’re connecting on a level that is more intimate, a greater baring of the soul.

What’s even more unusual is that this feedback is coming on posts I didn’t really labor over. Some of them I almost didn’t post at all because I didn’t think they would benefit anyone.

I have a theory as to why this is happening and it has precious little to do with me or my writing ability.

I truly believe it’s because I’ve been spending quality time with the Lord every single day. Granted, I’ve always had a regular quiet time, but these times are more special. I’m lingering in His presence and carrying His word in my mind throughout the day. I’m unhurried both in my quiet time and in my days.

And as I connect intimately with Him, somehow He enables me to connect better with my readers. I don’t know what each person needs to hear, but He does. 

In the past, comments meant so much to me. I’d push the publish button and wait to see if anyone would validate me and make me feel significant. I wanted to be popular—something I’ve never been in my whole life.

But I rarely think about comments anymore and when I do it’s in a whole new light. I’m humbled and grateful when someone tells me that a particular post was just what they needed, or confirmation about something God had already spoken to their heart. It touches me deeply because I know it’s Him and not me. He is the one drawing. He is the one speaking.

I think I’ve discovered the key to connecting with my readers. If I will stay connected to the heart of my Father, He will enable me to forge a relationship with my readers too.

I bet the same is true of you. If you will entwine your heart with the Father’s heart, He will enable you to reach people in a deep way whether you write about spiritual matters or the practical things of this world. He is the connection.

Editing to say that this post was written earlier this summer and my days are a little more hectic now than they were back then, but my relationship with the Lord remains the same.