So What did you Expect?

Expectations are just a fancy, nice-sounding synonym for “My rights!”

I have found an invariable rule: (If I have anger that I can’t cast on Jesus, then my rights have been trampled, and what I “reasonably” expect has not been forthcoming.)

I suggest that rights and expectations make no sense for a pardoned, cleansed, adopted, empowered CHIEF OF SINNERS (Such as myself). Trying to obtain my rights, or getting worked up when what I expect doesn’t happen—will always wear me out and does not obtain what I want. Casting my rights and expectations on Jesus brings peace. If I don’t get what I want, I still have Jesus. If I do get what I want, my happiness is not jeopardized by the possibility of losing it.

It would not hurt to set a weekly time to see if any “rights or expectations” have clung to me and find grace to cast those on the Lord as well.

1. the right to be treated with respect and have my opinions valued.
2. The right to basic needs like cars, housing, interesting clothing, etc.
3. The ability to do whatever I feel like whenever I want.
4. The right to secure my future.
5. The right to have the government make my neighbor do things my way.
6. The right to have the government take my neighbor’s money and give it to me.
7. The right to never be bored.
8. The right to be healthy.
9. The right to have all my loved ones feel and do well.
10. The right to do what I want without feedback from others or the Bible.
11. The right to have problems fixed magically by God, rather than to have to read, think, obey, or change my attitudes or behavior.
12. etc., etc., etc.

The next time you are upset, ask yourself, ” Am I upset at how sin is damaging another? Or am I upset at how my personal expectations and rights are being thwarted?” If it is the latter, then cast it on the Lord by

1. Thanking him for the irritation.
2. Asking God what he wants you to say and do.
3. Ask for his help and then, “Yield your body members slaves to righteousness.”