Expectations (2016)
Everyone has expectations. They are apart of our lives, and our approval or disapproval is linked to them; therefore, we are constantly assessing and grading everything. Restaurants, movies, work, leisure time, family, houses, cities, countries and more are gauged through the lens of our expectations. This is a powerful part of who we are as we strive to achieve, set goals and be better because we see through the prism of what we expect in life. We determine to receive greatness or we settle for less, but either way steams from this reality we have going on daily.
Expectations are potent as they can dictate our life’s course for the better or for the worse. For some, this has left a gaping hole in their hope because something or someone didn’t work out. For others, they soar to new heights as they fuel their life in what can be and should be.
In truth, this is a mine field at best since disappointment has slapped all of us in the face which tempts us to adjust our expectations. Sometimes this is good and needed but other times it can be deadly as we slowly give up. We let go of what we hoped for and concede that it’s not going to happen. Ultimately, that part of our life is gone leaving missed moments and missed opportunities.
This also affects our faith! So many Christ followers give up on what they are believing for, and they settle for less or nothing at all. This is dangerous because our faith and belief is directly linked to our expectations. Therefore, if we are not careful, there will be erosion to our faith and belief leaving us on the outside looking in.
However, our perception is not reality! God can’t fail and never stops doing good. He answers our prayers and moves on our behalf. He is faithful to stand with us in the good and in the bad leading us to a life of fulfillment and peace.
“I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to Him, and He answered my prayers.”
Psalm 120:1
Notice He answers our prayers! This perspective gives us endurance and strength to walk in hope that our expectations will be met.
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.”
Ephesians 3:20
This promises us that He works beyond our expectations as He works in us! How powerful! As we end the fast, be expecting! Believe that He is answering your prayers. That He is moving on your behalf for the best outcome you could imagine. This doesn’t necessarily mean fame and fortune, but it does mean peace and contentment.
What are you expecting today? Are you negative and downcast about something or someone that didn’t work out? Or are you seeing His hand working above and beyond what you have asked? Please do not underestimate the power of your expectations; it defines so much in your life, and the results will show up dramatically. This is your moment to shine. It’s your moment to be invigorated with passion and hope.
Have a great week and believe that the best is yet to come!
PD
