We all live with expectations—about God, people, church, and ourselves. What happens when those expectations don’t match reality?
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
— Isaiah 55:9 (ESV)
The Problem with Expectations
There isn’t a person alive who hasn’t wrestled with unmet expectations. Expectations are assumptions in our minds that may or may not line up with reality. Some say the safe route is to expect nothing so you’ll never be disappointed—but who wants to live that way?
The goal isn’t pessimism or optimism; it’s biblical realism: placing our hope in God while recognizing the world as it really is.
Even as believers, we form pictures in our heads of how God should work and when He should act. Those preconceived ideas can set us up for disappointment—and sometimes tempt us to quit right before God moves.
A Case Study: Naaman’s Expectation (2 Kings 5:1–14)
Naaman, a Syrian commander, sought healing from the prophet Elisha. He arrived with status, gifts, and a mental script for how the miracle should happen.
“Behold, I thought that he would surely come out to me… and wave his hand over the place and cure the leper.”
— 2 Kings 5:11 (ESV)
Instead, Elisha sent a messenger with simple instructions: “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times.” Offended, Naaman almost walked away. His servants pleaded: “Will you not do it?” He humbled himself, obeyed—and was healed (vv. 13–14).
Lesson 1: God Doesn’t Work by Our Scripts
Naaman’s expectation nearly cost him his miracle. God’s plan often makes sense after obedience, not before.
Lesson 2: Pride Blocks; Humility Unlocks
Pride says, “Do it my way.” Humility says, “Your word is enough.” When Naaman humbled himself, he received more than he imagined.
What We Can Expect from God
Let’s anchor our expectations to a biblical worldview:
- Power over sin (Rom. 6:6–14)
- Eternal life (John 3:16)
- Christ’s abiding presence—especially in trouble (Matt. 28:20; John 16:33)
These are guaranteed. What isn’t guaranteed are the extra assumptions we often tag onto the Christian life.
Three Common False Expectations
- “Obedience always brings worldly blessing—right now.”
That’s a subtle prosperity gospel. Jesus promised hardship and His presence: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33 - “Life should be fair, and people should always treat me kindly.”
We long for justice, but life in a fallen world isn’t fair. Our response?- Do good without demanding return.
- Serve because of who we are in Christ, not what we’ll get back (Gal. 6:9–10).
- “Church people will never hurt me.”
The church is an oasis of grace—but it’s still full of people who need grace. Don’t place others on pedestals that set you up for disappointment. Scripture calls us to a rhythm of mutual encouragement and presence: “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works… not neglecting to meet together… encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24–25
Three Practices for Healthy Expectations
- Stir one another up to do good for God.
- Keep meeting together—show up, don’t isolate.
- Encourage each other—give the grace you hope to receive.
Conclusion
We all carry expectations. When they aren’t shaped by Scripture, they set us up for frustration. But when we align our hopes with God’s promises and our actions with His Word, the weight lifts.
“Take my yoke upon you… For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:29–30
Reflection Questions
- Where have my expectations about God been more cultural than biblical?
- What “Naaman script” am I insisting on that keeps me from simple obedience?
- Who can I encourage this week so our church family grows in grace?
A Simple Prayer
Lord, align my expectations with Your Word.
Replace my pride with humility, my scripts with obedience,
and my disappointment with Your peace. Amen.