A thought by
Larry Osborne, (2009-04-04) from his book, Ten Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe (p. 134). The Crown Publishing Group. Kindle
Edition. (Click on the title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)
My dad was a
minister and he used to give out different statements that have stayed with me
through out my life. One of them was, “Too
high expectations brings about frustrations.”
And that is so true. The key
words are “Too high.” And in this thought by Larry, the word, “Unrealistic” is
the key word.
He goes on
to say, “Be it a marriage, a purchase, a business partner, a vacation, or our
walk with God, unfounded and unrealistic expectations are always a recipe for
confusion and disillusionment.”
He then
says, “When we assume, imply, or promise that God is supposed to bring us good
luck and lots of success, we're set up for deep disappointment and spiritual
cynicism. Even worse, we risk turning the King of kings into little more than a
good-luck charm. And that's a role he never agreed to play.”
Earlier he
said, “To assume or proclaim that following Jesus should make this life easier
or better is a huge mistake. To assume that godliness is a means to financial
gain is even worse. It's a sign that we've been robbed of the truth and think
with a corrupt mind. It might help recruiting. It might cast a wider net and
draw a bigger crowd. But ultimately it's guaranteed to leave those of us who
face the tougher trials and greater persecutions wondering what went wrong. It
sets the stage for the enemy to whisper his accusations against Gods goodness
and justice. It sets the stage for us to believe him. When we know the cost and
count the cost before the journey begins, we aren't likely to be blown away
when its time to pay the bill.” And then
the thought, “Unrealistic
expectations never make for solid footing.”
Please
understand, “that the benefits of righteousness aren't primarily found in
earthly rewards. They're found in the next life. The great benefit is
forgiveness. The great reward is heaven. Everything else is merely an hors
d'oeuvre, a small appetizer before the great feast.”
So
how are you doing?
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