Settling

At this point in my life, it is very easy to "settle". I have set high expectations for myself so if I feel like I am never going to reach them, I will be tempted to settle for second-best. This is applicable in the area of relationships and my career. We all know about "settling" when it comes to mating up. It is parallel to job hunting as well. I am going for what I want and not settling for something second-rate. So what is the danger of settling, not hoping, not wanting? It is this point that I don't trust God. I take matters into my own hands and find something that will just do. In Mark 10:46-52, Jesus asks, "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus literally came out and was like, "So what's up? What do you desire? What can I do for you today?" That's awesome! So not only do I have a Savior who cares for me, but One who just asks what I want. However, what is your first response when He asks you that question? I feel unworthy and undeserving, and I feel like I shouldn't even bother asking Him because it is "too" big and I don't expect Him to fulfill it. I often just wave my hand and say, "Whatever Your will is." That may come off as trusting in the Lord, but it's not. That is a fearful answer, thinking God can't give me what I ask for. In this passage, Jesus gave Bartimaeus what he asked for. I can tell God I want His will, but I can also tell Him what I desire. For example: "Lord, I want your will to be done in my career. I would like a job at X School this school year." Disappointment is unmet expectations. When I face disappointment, I just brush it off, or in some cases, feel sorry for myself. In those seasons, I am not confident and I see God as a blurry figure like I can't figure out what He is doing. The response God is looking for is praise in His plan and us coming to Him sharing our feelings and desires. How lucky are we that we can go to the Lord any time and just tell Him what's on our mind? I can unload my burdens with Him and share my disappointments. My Savior has faced disappointment; He understands. The really important part is where we go with an aching heart. I often go to other people when I am hurting instead of the Lord. When I am hurting, my Savior is waiting for me with open arms. He wants to comfort me. I can find that comfort in His Word. I pray that you are trusting in the Lord as well, and not settling. In Christ, Christine ><>