I Deserve It!

I Deserve It!

I remember the popular song, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” which encouraged us not to deprive ourselves of the happiness to which we are entitled.  Many persuasive advertising campaigns assure us that we deserve a perfect body, great health, a lovely home, the best car, and to be surrounded by luxurious possessions, but is this the way to live? How long will we remain happy and contented? After all, happiness is a temporary feeling, whereas joy is a spiritual fruit that grows and permeates our whole being.

Gratitude comes from acknowledging God’s grace in our lives, which may take the form of wealth, amazing opportunities, and even successes we genuinely don’t deserve. If we’re honest, we should be thankful for such a lovely turn of events instead of having a spirit of entitlement, which says, ‘I DESERVE this!’ How is it possible to arrive at such a conclusion?

The problem with having an attitude of entitlement is that it creates idols in our hearts, thus removing God from His rightful place. When we become entitled, being deprived of our desired object or experience makes us resentful and bitter and can even lead to jealousy of others who have what we want.

So what’s the remedy to this problem? What does God’s word instruct?

Let us Walk in His Way:

Dear Lord, You tell us in Psalm 37:4 that if we take delight in You, then You will give us the desires of our hearts. It sounds to me like the desires of our hearts need to be in line with Your desire for our hearts, which is to walk closely with You. Help us remain under Your grace and be grateful for all that You provide for us. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel

author of “Walk in His Way” for

Carry the Light Ministries