We live in a world where the idea of fairness and entitlement often dictate how we perceive our circumstances. We strive for the best, expecting promotions, rewards, recognition, and blessings because we believe we deserve them. But what if we were to truly receive what we deserve? Would we be as eager to claim it?
The Illusion of Deserving More
It’s easy to assume that because we work hard, treat people well, or follow certain rules, we are entitled to success, comfort, and ease. This mindset can lead to frustration when life doesn’t unfold the way we expect. We ask, Why didn’t I get that opportunity? Why is this happening to me? And sometimes, our frustration turns into resentment—toward others, our circumstances, and even God.
Yet, we rarely pause to ask whether we have truly earned the things we desire. Instead, we assume that what we want and what we deserve are one and the same. However, life often tells a different story.
The Biblical Perspective on What We Deserve
From a biblical standpoint, the reality of what we deserve is sobering. Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The truth is, if we were to receive what we genuinely deserve for our thoughts, actions, and shortcomings, it would not be a pleasant outcome. The Bible reminds us that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), meaning that by God’s standard, none of us are truly deserving of grace, mercy, or even the daily blessings we take for granted.
Yet, God’s love is such that He does not give us what we deserve. Instead, He offers grace. Psalm 103:10 says, “He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” If God meted out justice the moment we erred, where would we be? The fact that He is patient with us, giving us time to grow and repent, is a gift we often overlook.
A Shift in Perspective
When things don’t go our way, instead of immediately getting angry or questioning God’s fairness, we should ask ourselves:
- Have I truly earned what I am asking for?
- Am I measuring my worth honestly, or just assuming I deserve more?
- Am I grateful that God does not always give me exactly what I deserve, especially when I fall short?
Rather than demanding what we think we deserve, we should focus on gratitude for what we have and humility in recognizing that much of what we receive is not based on merit but on grace.
Final Thoughts
Life is not about demanding what we believe we are entitled to. It is about recognizing that God, in His wisdom, gives us what we need rather than what we think we deserve. Before we complain about not getting what we want, we should remember how often we are spared from the full consequences of our actions. Instead of anger and frustration, let’s cultivate humility, patience, and gratitude—acknowledging that God’s mercy is the reason we are even here today.
So the next time you feel like life isn’t giving you what you deserve, take a moment to be thankful. Because if we truly received what we deserved, we might be in a far worse position than we think.
Troy P Zehnder 