Conclusion of Ways to Cultivate Reasonable Expectations

The consequences  of perfectionist thinking are well summed  up in the adage:  "To expect life to be tailored to our specifications is to invite frustration."  To avoid this, an adjustment in thinking is required. Humility and modesty-having a realistic view of our limitations-will most certainly nurture in us balanced and reasonable expectations. Appropriately, Romans 12:3 cautions us "not to think more of [ourselves] than it is necessary to think." Additionally, Philippians 2:3 encourages us to have a lowliness of mind and to consider others to be superior. 

Elizabeth, mentioned earlier, was impatient with herself because of her sickness. For her, time was needed to get Jehovah's view of matters and to feel comforted in knowing that  he does not forget our service. Colin is immobilized as a result of a debilitating illness. Initially, he entertained feelings that his ministry was almost worthless compared to what  he had been doing  while he was in good health. By meditating on such scriptures as 2 Corinthians 8:12, he was able to shake these feelings.  This verse says:  "If the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what a person does not have ."  Although I have much less to give, says Colin, " I can still give, and that is acceptable to Jehovah."  At Hebrews 6:10, we are reminded:  God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name. 

How, then, can we determine whether our expectations are reasonable?  Ask yourself, 'Do my expectations  go hand in hand with God's expectations?' Galatians 6:4 states: "Let each one prove what his own work is, and then he will have cause for exultation in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person."  Remember, Jesus said:  "My yoke is kindly and my load is light."   Yes, as Christians, we do have a yoke to bear, but it is  "kindly" and "light," and Jesus promised that it would be refreshing if we learn to carry it properly. -Matthew 11:28-30. 

Next time:Reasonable Expectations Bring Rewards

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000