Something I’ve learned about myself is that, at times I think I have unbelievably high expectations at times. These may be expectations of myself or others. I may leave little to no room for error.
I’m so glad that God is more merciful than this.
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” Matthew 5:7 KJV
I’m also thankful for Jesus’s good ole conviction through His Holy Word.
Building, or being in, any kind of relationship with someone requires mercy on both parties. Whether it’s a parent to child (or vice versa), sibling, spousal, friendship, or coworker relationship – all require mercy and grace at some point.
I’ve written in the past about when I first recognized that I was holding others to unrealistic expectations. When I dropped those expectations, I was happier, the other person was happier. There was more peace.
I have recently found myself, again, holding onto unrealistic expectations for myself and others. Thing is, when I, or you, do this, we create a barrier between us and them. I found myself to be repulsive, unapproachable. Someone that others can’t talk to openly. Someone with whom others can’t openly make mistakes. Someone who’s not even allowed to make mistakes on my own.
Talk about a tough place to be!
But this isn’t the life God intended for any of us to live. Not that I want to frustrate His grace or take advantage of His mercy. But I recognize that He understands that while we live in this flesh, on this earth, we aren’t perfect. I’m not perfect. I have to stop expecting perfection from myself and others. It’s foolishness, it’s pride. It separates me from God and others. It’s putrid.
I have found that I live a much more fulfilling life and my relationships are much more stable and satisfying when I drop my pride and expectations, and insert grace and mercy coupled with love ❤️
On the Outside Looking In 