From Disappointment to Adoration

A new command I give you: Love one another. 
As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
John 13:34

Disappointment—that which we experience when expectations or wishes are not met. All of us face numerous disappointments throughout life—someone says something that hurts, a project fails, an illness interrupts plans… The list could go on and on. How do you handle disappointment?

I remember a lesson God once taught me. Someone said something that disappointed me. At first, I tried to dismiss it as no big deal. I tried to not think about it, but found myself going back to it, stewing over it, wondering how I should respond. Can you relate? Then, I prayed about it: God, what would You have me do? Instantly the thought came to mind, What does God do when I fail to meet His expectations of me?

Wham! Suddenly, my focus shifted from that one little thing the person had done to the numerous, grievous things I have done against God. How has God responded to me time and time again? His love, patience, and kindness have led me to repentance. He has forgiven me and used His Word to encourage me to walk in holiness. In countless ways, He has extended grace and mercy to me when I deserved condemnation.

The answer to my question was simple: Act toward others as God has acted toward me. He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8).

My disappointment from the person’s words dissolved. In its place grew adoration to God for His grace and mercy toward me. The more I see my own sin and understand God’s forgiving mercy, the less I am offended by other’s actions toward me, and the more I am ready to extend forgiveness.

Lord, help me love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me.

Jan Burkhart