Expectations

In life we make plans, and set expectations on how things will go. But what happens when our expectations aren’t met?

You get a new job. It’s your first day. You dress the part, excitedly show up for work. Your head swimming with ideas of how your day will go. But when you get there, nothing goes to plan. The person you thought you’d be working with is on a totally different team, no one stops to welcome you, not even your manager (who doesn’t even say anything at all to you all day). The environment was not as warm and welcoming as you expected it to be.

Or what about that time you excitedly went on a first date with that person you thought you had a connection with. You picked out the best outfit, did your hair just right, making sure you looked your best for the date. Then, it all went south. It turns out that you are not compatible at all, nothing in common. In fact, the sound of their voice and the way they say things actually gets on your nerves.

Think about that first house that you really wanted to look at as a potential to buy. The pictures made it look so grand and perfect for you. But you get there and the yard is actually very small and there are thousands of dollars worth of repairs that need to be done in order to be livable.

Your expectations of what should have been fell short. What then?

What do we do when the events that happen in our lives don’t meet the expectations we have set in our head? Where do we turn?

Do you tend to turn inward? Over analyzing every detail to self detriment? Do you throw a “woe is me” pity party? Thinking you will never have….fill in the blank?

Do you turn to complaining about every little thing? Offering all opinion and no real suggestion for improvement?

While some of these may be the natural response, they aren’t the best response.

It may be hard at the time, but if you take a moment to take a step back and observe what is going on around you, you will see that God has something more for you….better expectations.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who^[a] have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

These two Bible verses remind us that God is in control of these situations and that He not only has a plan, but it is a good and hopeful one.

So, in light of God moving in our situation, how are we supposed to act? Philippians gives us a good place to start.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13

We are called to first and foremost not be anxious, but instead to pray, with thanksgiving of what we already have, being content no matter what the situation. If we seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all things we need will be given to us. (Matthew 6:33) God has not left us. (“He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and calls them all by name……The Lord supports the humble…” Psalm 147:3-4,6a)

And remember that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3-4) And those who put their hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13