Speaking of Great Expectations....

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things unseen.  Hebrews 11:6

Last week Lorilise shared a post about expecting God to make a way for us to do the things for which we are called.  As I've been ruminating over this, it occurs to me that I don't often expect great things from God.  Frequently, my faith is reduced to barely a shred of hope that God will step in at the last minute to cover the little tiny gap that is left  between my effort and something truly great.  The implication here is that I've got it mostly covered on my own, and I only need God to grant me a few drops of His strength and goodness to get it the rest of the way.


WHAT?

Yes, this is actually how I (often) function.  So, when I'm finally at the end of my own strength (which really doesn't take that long, if we're being honest), I am able to recognize God when He steps in.  Of course, I'm totally blown away because His strength and goodness far outweigh anything I could ever conceive.  Then it strikes me that He's been at work in my situation- in my life- all along!

He is always at work; He doesn't step in just to save me from myself at the last possible second.


Let that sink in for a minute.

I've had this idea, and I don't think I'm alone in this, that God is around to help me do good things.  When in reality it is God who lets me participate in His good work.

How did I get that backwards?

I think it is because at my very core, I still would prefer to do things my way.  But wouldn't it be so much easier to do things God's way?  I mean, seriously, He's GOD!  I'm pretty sure He has the best, perfect plan, plus I'd be willing to bet He's considered everything and has all the details worked out!

So where does this leave my faith?

My expectation = My faith.

Based on my expectations, I would say my faith needs quite the adjustment!  I need to recognize that God is always at work in my life, and He is always doing greater things than I could ever do on my own!  Changing my expectation of God to reflect who God really is, increases my faith in Him.

So, what are your expectations of God?  What does your faith look like?  Do you see any upcoming changes in your expectations?