The other night at church I went to a class where we talked about our battle within ourselves to not live within our culture. Mainly we talked about materialism and how we should be different from the world as Christians. We also talked about how we, as Americans, feel we are entitled to things. We think we should live in a nice place, drive a nice car, be able to go eat out with friends all the time, have nice things, etc., etc. The list goes on. I have been thinking a lot about this lately.
Where do we get this sense of entitlement? Why do I feel like I "deserve" some things?
It's been on my mind a lot lately...way before this class started this week. Just this Monday, as I was wrapping up work, I thought to myself "I've been working hard today. I deserve a good meal tonight." So, I got home and we went out to eat. Then on the way home I thought to myself that that was so silly of me. Why do I always think those kinds of thoughts?
Anyway, I'm sure this is something I'll be thinking about and dealing with for the rest of my life, but it really drives me nuts that I feel so entitled all the time. Really, I don't deserve anything. I have God in my life, and that's all I need...and shoot, I don't deserve that even.
2 comments:
I like the word entitlements..It says a lot and says a lot about everyone..I think when we are wrapped up in what we deserve, I know I find myself not grateful, and more on the bitter side. I personally believe it's a stagnant term and keeps me from growing closer to God.
I don't want to minimize hard work and rewards, but on the other hand our culture in my opinion has over emphasized them to a point of..I will stop here..just letting you know, it affect my gratefulness when I start saying what I deserve.
Man, why did I have to read this right after spending more money than we should have on making some minor improvements on our house. No, I needed this. I totally agree. I was thinking, "I have lived here 4 years it is time to make these adjustments" - I totally agree, why did I think I was entitled to this...it is a heart thing and one that is tough for most people here in America and I am no exception.
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