I was at a leadership conference yesterday and heard one of those life changing "ha ha" nuggets of wisdom. The man who was emceeing the day said at the beginning of the talks that there was a difference between expectations and expectancy. He said that: "Expectations were the seeds of resentment." He went on to say that expectancy was different because expectancy is open minded. I began to process what he said and was blown away. Understanding this affects relationships, marriage, parenting, our jobs etc.
Expectations are self-centered and when they are not met we get angry and resentful. If my expectations are not met I feel cheated. Most often expectations are never explained or even talked about in relationships, they are just assumed. We all know what assuming does.
Expectancy is different because it is open, hopeful, trusting, and filled with faith in a God who is loving and sovereign. When I do not have expectations but rather walk in expectancy I am positioned for whatever God wants and however He would lead.
Where in your life do you have unwritten expectations of others that when not met you are becoming resentful?
How about from God? Where have you had expectations from God that were not met and if you were honest have become a little resentful towards Him?
Turn your expectations into expectancy and trust Him to be faithful do what is best in every situation.
Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. NIV
