A young man’s glory is in his strength, while older men glory in their wisdom. Each season comes with its own expectations. And we do well to adjust our expectations as we move through the various seasons of life as well.
For instance, as kids things were mostly done for us. But as we grew into adulthood more was rightly expected from us as we learned to offer our strength to our communities. Yet after a season on the frontlines of life’s battles, we rightly adjust our expectations again as we mentor the next generation to take our place.
Throughout our life and relationships we’re constantly adjusting our expectations to what’s reasonable for that given season. We sell ourselves short when we don’t rise to the occasion. And we set ourselves up for many frustrations and despair when we expect too much of ourselves.
For example, we should be ever growing in maturity relationally. And it’s only reasonable to expect we’re handling our relationships with more grace and wisdom today than we were ten years ago. At the same time, our bodies continue to change as we age and wisdom reminds us not to expect them to respond in the exact same way today as they did ten years ago.
But this plays out with even greater nuance in our daily lives.
For instance, when our family needs more from us we have to adjust our expectations accordingly. We can’t give more to them without also adjusting our output elsewhere.
We might also have to adjust our expectations at work whenever we’re sick. It’s not reasonable or kind to demand the same workload when our bodies are recovering.
Likewise, a hard season in marriage might require us to change how we show up with the rest of our family and friends. Something has to give when our bandwidth is dedicated fully to nurturing our union.
Whatever it looks like, we must consistently adapt to the reasonable requirements of each season.
Rise to the occasion whenever it’s necessary. And regularly adjust your expectations as the demands of life change.
Photo by Drew Patrick Miller on Unsplash
