What Did You Expect?
“What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in king’s courts. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is he of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before youâ€
(Luke 7:24-27)
Great expectations can be very advantageous (Lk. 3:15; Phil. 1:20). However, expectations can also be very disheartening if they are not based in fact or on faith (Prov.11:23; Acts 12:11).
1. Acts 3:5 states that a certain beggar expected one thing from the gospel, but got quite another. Should he have been disappointed? No.
2. Luke 7:24-28 raises the whole question about who was John the Baptist. Those who did not realize John’s divine identity (Malachi 3:1), were faced with either revising their expectations of him, or rejecting him altogether. Of course, revising our thinking is in order—if by revising our thinking, we correct to the will of God.
3. Proverbs 3:6 is warranted wisdom regarding expectations: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.†If one is usually discontented an expectation check may be in order.
So, even though things are not how you would like for them to be—do not base your daily happiness or eternity on it. Base your expectations on the Rock, and, then, come what may, you will be satisfied (Ps. 18:2; 40:2; Isa. 51:1,2; Matt. 7:24; 1 Cor. 10:4). The Lord is the Rock.
– Robert M. Housby