Living With ExpectationSample

Rethinking What You Expect

Life trains us to manage expectations. We learn not to expect too much so we won't be disappointed. Or we focus our expectations on things we think will make us happy—success, image, popularity, control.

But what if your expectations are too small or misguided?

In John 14, Jesus told his disciples something wild. Check it out:

God himself—in the person of the Holy Spirit—would come live with them, guide them, and comfort them, forever. How's that for setting a high expectation?

When we expect lesser things, we settle for surface-level living. But when we begin to expect the Holy Spirit—to really desire his presence—we open ourselves up to deep, life-changing transformation.

Let's raise our expectations. Invite the Spirit into your situation, your feelings, and your day. You don't have to beg—just be honest, and expect him to meet you there.

Pray:

"Holy Spirit, show me what it is like to raise my expectations of life with you. What does this kind of life really look like? What am I free of? What am I made for? Don't let me settle for an ordinary life, but one that is fulfilled in you. Amen"