Expectations

The expectation of Jesus’ deliverance tickled the backs of the disciples’ and followers’ minds. He had healed the lame and the blind, fed the multitudes with little, and called the dead to life. But expectations and defeat would soon mingle together. 

When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”

~John 11:43 NIV

Surely, Jesus would come down from the cross and stop the cruelty of His crucifixion. His followers may have cringed when He was beaten and flogged. They had moaned at His abuse and been uncertain of the plan when He was raised on the cross. But He was God. Why didn’t He call the angels to assist Him? A crucified person coming down and walking away from the cross would guarantee many would follow Him. Surely, at any minute He would deliver Himself. What was the purpose of such agony? 

The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.

~Luke 24:7 NIV

Snippets of His warnings of such things fought to surface in the disciples’ minds. Yet, they pushed the forewarnings away as visions of a kingdom on earth ruled by Him filled their minds. Their expectations demanded a miracle from Him.

Come on Lord. Come down from that cross. Show them Your might.

Were they looking for the wrong miracle?

Defeat

Defeat over Jesus’ death dragged at their hearts. What now? The Romans killed Him. The believers mourned and wept. Nothing they imagined had happened. The women carried spices to anoint His dead body in the tomb. No one expected the absence of the body, although Jesus had told them what would occur. Why would the women take spices to anoint a body that should not be there? Why did the disciples not keep watch for His resurrection at the tomb instead of hiding?  

Perhaps the followers of Jesus had such thoughts. Maybe not. But their behavior after His death reminds me of my actions at times. I find my unmet expectations often bring defeat to my spirit. Defeat spirals down to procrastination and ultimately to disobedience. God’s Word tells me what to expect and how to live victoriously, yet at times I misunderstand. And I base my actions on my sight rather than His word. 

For we live by faith, not by sight.

2 Corinthians 5:7 NIV

Believe God enough to obey. Don’t believe in yourself or how you think things should be. Don’t let your expectations take precedence over God’s revelation so that you lead a defeated life. Root your expectations in God’s Word, not your own desires. 

Examine how your personal expectations line up with God’s Word.

Lord, help me to live a life surrendered to You and Your plan. Keep defeat away from my heart and guide me into an abundant life on earth as I follow You daily. Help me to pursue Your will, not mine. In Jesus’ name, amen.  

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2024: Expectations and Defeat: Sharon Davis: All Rights Reserved