Managing Expectations (III)
"Someone in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’" (NIV) Luke 12:13-14
In the previous article, we saw Peter ask what he and the other disciples would gain for following Jesus. Though his question was legitimate, Jesus broadened his understanding—earthly rewards are temporary, but eternal life is the greatest blessing. Yet, not all expectations are rooted in faith. Some, like the man in Luke 12, approach Jesus with demands, expecting the Lord to endorse his personal checklist of blessings.
This man didn’t seek wisdom or contentment—he wanted Jesus to enforce his idea of fairness. But Jesus refused, exposing a deeper issue: misplaced priorities. How often do we treat God the same way? We define success by our own terms and expect Him to fulfill it. When He doesn’t, we feel disappointed, as if He has failed us.
However, God is not bound by our plans. “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord” (Isaiah 55:8). True faith looks to the Lord, trusting that His ways lead to greater fulfillment than our desires ever could.
Instead of dictating outcomes, let us surrender to His will (1 Samuel 3:10, James 4:7). When we release our demands and embrace His plan, we find peace. His blessings may not always align with our checklist—but they are always perfect.