(Perspective & Expectations) – excerpt from “Boot Camp for the Blues” | Written by Joy Ware Miller
Most girls grow up looking for the “happily ever-after” fairy tale life. However, the idea that life will be perfect with no pit-falls or trials turns out to be a fantasy, an unachievable false narrative. Many times, we find ourselves faced with this sad reality later in life and on the “broken journey.” If that’s you keep reading…there is hope.
Consequently, the “broken journey” is the reality of unrealistic and unmet expectations. To believe and want to grow up to be a Princess is an unrealistic dream which can turn into unmet expectations that can shatter the heart, unless you are Kate Middleton.
Life reminds me of a 1000-piece puzzle. From our mid-teens we start to try and piece our lives together. Sometimes parts of our lives fit nicely in place and other times we find that we are missing critical pieces. However, our expectation is for the puzzle (our life) to look like the photo on the box.
This is where “resolve” is introduced. Resolve is defined as being “settled” or “decided firmly on a course of action”. We must be resolved to keep God on the throne of our hearts (course of action) regardless of what happens, how we feel and what we see. Establishing “settled” expectations heals the broken journey. Our expectations can now be achieved when they are founded on God’s Word.
“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)
Having a resolute mind and heart fueled Esther, Joseph, and Daniel to stand in the face of questions, danger, betrayal, fear, and death. What could have been a broken journey for these heroes of the faith turned out to be a journey of victory and an example for each of us to follow. We may not be able to control the outcome or locate the final puzzle piece, but our resolve and ability to be settled regardless of the outcome, will take us on a journey of great adventure and peace.
