Introduction

In order for God to intervene in our situations, we must have a sense of expectation. This year, let us raise our level of expectation and anticipate God's intervention in our lives.

The Story of the Woman with the Issue of Blood

There was a woman who had been suffering from a flow of blood for twelve years. She had sought help from many physicians and had spent all her money, but her condition only worsened. However, when she heard about Jesus, she came to Him in the midst of a crowd and touched His garment. She believed that if she could just touch His clothes, she would be healed. Immediately, her bleeding stopped, and she knew in her body that she had been healed (Mark 5:25-29).

Lesson

The woman with the issue of blood teaches us the power of expectation. Despite her long-standing condition and failed attempts at finding a cure, she held onto the hope that Jesus could heal her. She visualized her healing even before she encountered Jesus. We too must develop a positive mindset and visualize our breakthroughs, focusing on the possibilities rather than the obstacles.

The Lame Man at the Beautiful Gate

Another example of the power of expectation is seen in the story of the lame man who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. He asked Peter and John for alms, but they fixed their eyes on him and said, "Look at us." The man gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them (Acts 3:2-5).

Lesson

The lame man's expectation led to a miraculous healing. Although he asked for money, he received something far greater – his ability to walk. Our expectations should not be limited to what we think is possible; God can exceed our expectations and provide more than we could ever imagine.

Understanding Expectation

Expectation is the act of eagerly anticipating something with a strong belief that it will happen. It is having hope and confidence in a desired outcome. When we expect something, we focus our attention on it and believe that it will come to pass. Expectation is the catalyst for miracles and breakthroughs.

The Importance of Expectation

Our expectations shape our prayers and determine the level of faith we operate in. Without expectation, our prayers become ineffective. The Bible tells us that faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). As we hear testimonies of what God has done, our faith increases, and we become expectant for our own miracles.

Steps to Cultivate Expectation

1. Pray in the name of Jesus: Pray with authority and confidence, knowing that God hears and answers our prayers when we come in Jesus' name (John 14:13).

2. Read, meditate, and confess the Word: The Bible is the foundation for our expectations. Read it daily, meditate on its promises, and speak them over your life.

3. Be obedient: Obeying God's commands opens the door for His blessings in our lives.

4. Soak yourself in prayer: Set aside dedicated time for prayer, persistently bringing your needs before God.

5. Maintain your integrity: Live a life of honesty and righteousness, knowing that God blesses those who walk in integrity.

6. Be a blessing: Bless others and meet their needs, as God's blessings flow through us to others.

7. Walk in faith: Trust in God's promises and speak words of faith over your circumstances.

8. Wait for your time: Understand that there is a season for everything, and trust that God's timing is perfect.

9. Stop complaining: Replace complaints with gratitude and praise, knowing that God is working behind the scenes.

10. Be spiritually sensitive: Tune in to God's voice and discern His leading in your life.

11. Seize the moment: Take advantage of opportunities that come your way, and don't procrastinate.

12. Trust God's plan: Have unwavering trust in God's faithfulness and His ability to fulfill His promises.

Conclusion

As we cultivate a spirit of expectation, we position ourselves to receive God's blessings and experience His intervention in our lives. Let us raise our level of expectation this year and trust that God will exceed our expectations. Remember, with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

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