Are you expecting?

“And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them.” (Acts 3:5 ESV)

Living with expectation is a key aspect of the Christian life, marked by a hopeful anticipation of God's promises and His divine plan. This idea is deeply rooted in the Bible and is evident in the lives of biblical figures who demonstrated faith and trust in God's timing.

A future hope

The Bible encourages believers to maintain a sense of expectation as they look forward to God's promises being fulfilled. In the Old Testament, prophets spoke of a future hope, particularly the coming of the Messiah. For example, Isaiah 40:31 says, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." This verse emphasizes the strength and perseverance gained from living with expectation.

Jesus is coming soon

In the New Testament, the theme of expectation is linked to the return of Jesus Christ. Believers are urged to anticipate His second coming. In Titus 2:13, Paul writes about "waiting for the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ." This expectation influences the Christian life, encouraging believers to live in holiness and readiness.

What are you expecting from the Lord?

  • Expect rewards from the Lord

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” (Heb. 11:6 ESV)

“The wicked earns deceptive wages, but one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward.” (Prov. 11:18 ESV)

  • Expect a future and a hope from the Lord 

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jer. 29:11 ESV)

  • Expect goodness, protection and blessing from the Lord

“...How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world...”
(Psalm 31:19, NLT)

  • Expect an inheritance from the Lord

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Col. 3:23-24 ESV) 

  • Expect to receive crowns from the Lord

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 ESV)

“And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” (1 Peter 5:4 ESV)

Therefore

“For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.” (Psalm 62:5 ESV)

Quote

“Positive expectations are the mark of the superior personality.” - Brian Tracy

Mike Frenchbible promises, expecting from god