May 4, 2011
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It’s not fair!
The title sounds like a three year old’s declaration of rights, doesn’t it? Have you ever watched a toddler throw himself down on the ground in protest while kicking and screaming, “It’s not fair!”? Once we enter adulthood we think we are beyond such outbursts. And though I must admit we may be more dignified in our approach, I can honestly say that I’ve had my moments lately when those exact thoughts have tormented my own mind. No, I didn’t throw myself down on the floor kicking and screaming. But, that’s not to say that my response was any less self-focused.
A while back I spent a week stuck on how unfair I perceived my work load to be. I started feeling resentful. I mumbled to myself. I felt sorry for myself. I had a sharp reply here and there. I just was not a pleasant person… especially if someone asked me to do ONE MORE THING or suggested an alternative way of doing something I had just done. My irritation turned into anger which was turning into bitterness and I knew I was headed for trouble. I kept praying for the Lord’s help but continued in a spiral of an inward temper tantrum that lasted longer than I care to admit. Inwardly I was screaming, “It’s not fair!”
It wasn’t long until my prayer for help was answered as I was reminded what ‘fairness’ would look like if I truly got what I deserved. Did I? Did I really want things to be fair in this life.. even Steve?
I’ve given that some thought and I realized God had given me a perfect picture of what my life would be like if I got what I deserved. Both now and eternally.
Was it ‘fair’ that Jesus came to earth to die for sins He didn’t commit?
Is it ‘fair’ that Christ’s perfect record of holiness is now mine when I’ve done nothing to earn it?
Do I really want life to be fair when the outcome would be God’s wrath because of my sins?
I think not!
I’m so glad life is not fair and that I don’t get what I deserve. With a thankful heart filled with the wonder of God’s grace the bitterness of my heart has melted and I’m filled with gratitude that God loved me enough to not grant me what I deserved.
The gospel encourages me to serve my family and others willingly because my Saviour came to earth to serve and give His life for me.
But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matt 20:26-28 ESV
I’m not learning these lessons perfectly but I’m learning none the less.
Have you ever felt this way in your home towards your husband or children? Are you learning (or have you learned) that the gospel speaks to our attitude towards the duties in our home and not just our salvation?
Comments (3)
I’m still learning.
The sin of self-entitlement is difficult to overcome.
I’m sorry to hear your workload is so heavy. I know what you are talking about I was feeling sorry for myself that others had more money than I did and God corrected me. It took a few times before I got it, now I can correct myself. Our thoughts are our emotions talking and we can learn to not let them rule us, but it’s not easy. I guess I really needed this lesson. I like what the other commenter said too. Well put.
Hugs. Linda
@grannyfox - Linda…the bottom line is that I don’t think my workload is heavy.. I just think my flesh needs to die more! Not to mention I’m a spoiled American! I hope you are doing well Linda!