Entitlement

9 Nov

“God gives every bird its food, but He does not throw it into its nest.”  ~ Josiah Gilbert Holland

There is the sense of a feeling of entitlement that runs through so many people.  They don’t think that they need to work for something but, rather, that it should be given to them.  Why?  Well, simply because they want it.  Isn’t that reason enough?  That, at least, appears to be the rationale.  Of course, it is absurd at its very core but it, nonetheless, seems to be the modus operandi of many an individual.

God showers us with many blessings.  Yes, that is true.  However, He does not shower them as handouts.  He wants us to work for what He has to give us.  We should not act as entitled children but, rather, as grateful children who are not afraid to toil and labor for what is ours.

It seems that people do not want to toil or labor any more.  They want things handed to them.  They expect things to be handed to them.  When there are not given what they want, they have real problems with that.  They groan and complain.  But, often, they do nothing to get what they want.  They will not raise a hand to work for it or earn it.  They continue to whine and complain and demand because they feel that it should be theirs.

I often wonder what God thinks of some of His people who act that way toward Him.  He has so much love for us and so much to give to us.  He doesn’t want us to misuse our gifts nor be demanding and selfish regarding gifts.  We should not be impertinent children but, rather, be children who are willing to walk and work hand in hand with our Lord, never demanding from Him but only humbly asking.

And when it does come our way?  A “thank you” is always in order.

FAITH ACTION:  Be thankful for what comes your way today.