ENTITLEMENTS

"And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became
obedient to death-even death on a cross!" - Philippians 2:8

Society today has duped many of us into believing that the world owes
us. It owes us a good living, a loving spouse, good health throughout
our whole life, sexual pleasure when we want it, and paid vacations the
rest of our lives. The world has told us if we work hard and do right,
we are entitled to these things. This is the Esau perspective on life.
For a mere meal, he sold his own birthright for a simple pleasure to
which he felt entitled.
Society, and even the Church, is more pleasure-focused than ever
before.
We are not a society that simply enjoys its time off. Our leisure
appetites drive us. It is increasingly common to hear people turning
down job offers because the hours or other responsibilities would
interfere with their hobbies, fitness regimens and other free time
activities. Even our spending habits show that playing has become a
major priority. The average household spends more money on
entertainment
than it does clothing, health care, furniture or gasoline. Recreational
activities have jumped more than 10 percent in the amount of time given
to them. [George Barna, Frog In The Kettle (Ventura, California: Regal
Books, 1990), 82.]
What are the motives for our work life? Is it only to gain increased
pleasure and leisure time? Jesus said He came only to do the work of
the Father. I am sure that Jesus had times of refreshment in His life that
allowed Him to get recharged for the mission God called Him to.
However,He understood the balance of maintaining mission and play. When we view
life with an attitude of entitlements, we are susceptible to becoming
disappointed, resentful, and even bitter when our expectations go
unmet.
Ask the Lord if you need to relinquish any rights that may be hindering
your freedom to experience His love and grace.