I deserve this
You should have
I have a right to
It’s about time that
Entitlement, the attitude of expectation of something because of who I am or what I have done.
It is a gratitude killer. A grace killer. A mercy killer.
on the way to Jerusalem [Jesus] was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance, and lifted up their voices, saying ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’ Luke 17:11-13
This was not a “planned stop” as far as anyone (except Jesus) knew. These lepers were on the outskirts of the village, as required by law, and they recognized Jesus. What a bold step, to cry out for mercy!
When he saw them he said to them, ‘Go and show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice, and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Luke 17:14-16
Jesus had compassion on them. He instructed them to do as the law required, and they were healed as they went. They had to step out and trust Jesus.
Choosing gratitude is stepping out in faith, trusting God when He says to always give thanks. Gratitude is based on God’s character, not on my circumstances.
Gratitude is acknowledging that God blesses me because of who He is, not because of what I have done. I don’t earn God’s grace any more than these 10 lepers “earned” Jesus’ healing.
Father, kill entitlement in me. Keep me grateful for Your extravagant grace in my life. Make me as bold as this Samaritan to “tell the world” what wonderful things You have done for me!
Plea for Grace 