At times God surprises us with illuminating truth that changes us forever. Like a lightening bolt from heaven, He gets our attention in a way that shows us what we could not see before.
Ever feel frustrated because you have "done" enough but haven't received:
*that raise at work (it's obvious you work harder than everyone else),
*another person's cooperation (look at all you've done for them),
*a new whatever (why does everyone else get this and I don't?)
*a break in life (why do I have to keep dealing with this?)
*relief from a difficult situation (I'm doing everything right and nothing ever changes)
*a specific blessing from God (look at all I'm giving up and doing for God and the thing I asked for hasn't happened yet!)
There might just be a sense of entitlement lurking in the shadows causing that frustration. "No, not me!" roar the readers. Hear me out - entitlement is someone's belief that he/she is deserving of some particular reward or benefit.
Is there a checklist in the heart that says "I've suffered (or sacrificed) __________________ and I deserve ___________________. Our culture tells us so. Don't you "deserve a break today"?
An entitlement attitude is self-focused and a joy killer. It robs us of the satisfaction that should be in our lives and we see the glass half empty. When we finally get what we think we deserve, our frustration is appeased and we feel vindicated but not blessed.
So, ask God if there is a sense of entitlement in your heart about something. If there is, He will whisper it in a still small voice with tender mercies that lead to repentance.
The truth will set you free - free to be grateful and live life with a healthy expectation that results in joy because of belief in the goodness of God and the blessings He has given us. (James 1:17)
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