“The main function of expectations is to prepare us for action. If we mentally anticipate what may happen, we can prepare an action plan so that life does not take us by surprise. Expectations, therefore, help us mentally prepare for the future.
In fact, most of our decisions are not based solely on objective data – as we like to believe – but on the expectations we have about the results of those decisions. That means that every decision is, in some way, an act of faith. Behind every decision lies the confidence that our expectations about the consequences of our choice will come to pass.
Therefore, expectations become a kind of inner compass.
The problem is that expecting something to happen will not make it happen, so when expectations are unrealistic, they can end up playing tricks on us and, instead of helping us prepare mentally, lead to frustration, confusion, and even anger.” – Psychology-Spot.com
Because expectations can have positive and negative impacts on our lives, we need to learn how to master them. This battle with the positive and negative begins in our thoughts. 2 Corinthians 10:5. As we take our thoughts captive, we allow Obedience to walk alongside us providing us with perfect guidance.
Expectations Can Have Positive Impact
Expectations can give us the drive to conquer whatever task is at hand. They can give us an end goal to strive for. Even a sense of purpose to get up and make it happen. Expectations, when healthy, can provide a positive outlook on how we view the world.
Expectations Can Have Negative Impact
However, if expectations are created from an unhealthy place in our lives, it can be very detrimental to ourselves and others. Unhealthy expectations cause us to place our faith and hope in humanity, not GOD.
When we place these expectations on humanity, relationships are destroyed, our mental health is diminished, and Fear and Anxiety become our best friends.
Deep Impact
It’s only fair to assume that everyone in our lives has some unmet expectation that they placed on another, and they are battling or working through them in some way. It’s a natural part of life for us to have expectations, but on whom we place them and what we expect will impact us deeply.
I place unrealistic expectations on my spouse and children all the time. It’s awful, but I still do it. I don’t want to, and yet I do it anyway. I’m in the same boat as Paul when he said, “I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I can’t. I do what I don’t want to—what I hate” (Romans 7:15 TLB).
I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the very expectations placed on my family, are those only God Himself can meet, and yet, when they fail to meet my expectations, I’m devastated.
Why do I do this? Because I have yet to master my expectations. I am still a work in progress, (Philippians 1:6). Knowing I do this is one step forward in a race that has already been won, (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
Lord, I need you today more than ever. Help me to master the art of expectation.
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