the fact of having a right to something :
I have found that in an environment where gratitude, praise, and recognition is regularly given, an attitude of entitlement develops within those who are on the receiving end. You would think this not true, due to the fact that everyone craves affirmation and hates environments where it does not exist, but history would tell us differently.
I’m reminded of the Hebrews wandering the desert fresh out of slavery in Egypt, (a miracle in itself). Every need provided, led by the visible presence of God, yet complaining of what they deserved, and the desire to return to captivity.
Consider the same group of people who only years later decided that the sovereignty of God which led them to the “promised land”, defeated their enemies in ways that only he can (The walls of Jericho), and provided a defense that no nation could defeat, was no longer suited to lead them. In I. Samuel 8, the children of Israel beg God to give them a King, their reason being that they are Entitled to what every other nation has.
I am challenged to evaluate if an attitude of Entitlement may have crept in to the very confines of my soul.
Do I take the unmerited grace of God for granted?
Do I expect him to give me what I want, when I want it with no regard for His plan or purpose?
Do I treat people with the same disdain or is my life reflective of true appreciation & gratitude?
Some thoughts to ponder.
