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Our Only Expectation

When we are young, we have great expectations. We expect folks to tell us the truth, that we’ll experience good health, great marriages, faithful friends, and successful careers. But what do we do when life doesn’t live up to those expectations?

In Philippians 1, Paul shows us the way to face broken expectations of circumstances, people, and the future, yet retain a positive attitude and disposition of mind.

As we recall, Paul was in prison as he writes his letter to the brethren at Philippi (Philippians 1:7 – NKJV)  — not a pleasant place to be. But Paul was wonderfully positive. He said that his suffering aided in advancing the gospel (Philippians 1:12-14 – NKJV).

When we get stuck in a tough marriage, an unrewarding job, or a challenging boss to get along with, it’s easy to get discouraged. Maybe it’s an uncertain future — the loss of a spouse, a loss of employment, or a health crisis. Maybe folks haven’t lived up to our expectations. In Paul’s case, some Christians were a discouragement to him rather than an encouragement (Philippians 1:15-16 – NKJV), but Paul’s response was still positive:

“Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice” (Philippians 1:18 – NKJV).

Paul knew that at any moment, Roman officials might give the order for his execution, yet he victoriously declared:

“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21 – NKJV).

Brethren, let’s adopt the only expectation that Paul had — for Christ to be honored, no matter what the circumstances.