Choosing Disappointment

None of us willingly choose to be disappointed. Usually, we become disappointed when our expectations are not met. It sneaks into our minds when we have been overlooked for a promotion. It creeps into our hearts after a visit with far away loved ones comes to a close. It sinks into our souls when we realize that our actions have caused others pain.
Disappointment, what do we do with you?

According to Reference.com the literal definition of this three-part word is as follows:

dis- – prefix, indicating reversal, negation, lack, or deprivation, removal or release

appoint – to select a person or a group of people for an official position or to do a particular job, to fix or agree upon a particular time or place for something to happen

-ment – suffix, denoting action or resulting state, a product, or means

The root word “appoint” can be a touchy subject amongst men and women. I believe that the Bible clearly gives examples of women called by God and appointed for certain tasks. Mordecai challenged Esther to rise to the occasion to save her people. The prophet Deborah was given the task of leading others into battle. King Josiah sent the priest Hilkiah, to ask God’s direction from the prophetess, Huldah. Let us not forget Mary, the mother of Jesus. Although her role in history was not an official one, she was clearly chosen based upon something special God saw within her. These women were selected for official positions at specific times. In these instances, God chose women to carry out His plan.

The Bible is also full of many examples where men have been appointed for specific tasks and jobs. Could it be that God really has called us, regardless of gender, to serve Him in different capacities at different times? Could it be possible for male and female to serve one another as well as alongside one another? What happens when we begin to have expectations? Could it be that when we begin to use the language of entitlement, perhaps based upon gender, we are setting ourselves up to be dis-appointed?

This is a sensitive topic where heated discussions can ensue. I firmly believe that each one of us, regardless of our gender, have a specific calling upon our lives to be used by the Lord in some capacity. There will be those whose tasks are more public than others. I realize that many have been overlooked based upon their gender, and this fact cannot be ignored. However, I do believe that God appoints us Himself and no man, or woman, can stand in our way. His good and perfect will is accomplished, although it may not be in the ways we expect, which can lead us to feel disappointed. Yet, to accept this state is to actually allow ourselves to become removed from the appointments God has for us, to accept dis-appointment.

Scripture has intentionally been excluded in regards to this topic because of the ease in which certain verses could be misinterpreted. There must be an understanding of these passages regarding women from a cultural and historical standpoint. Likewise, personalities, circumstances, and situations must be considered when considering present day leadership within the church body whether that is male or female.

Many times problems are easily identified while solutions are less apparent. Overall, we need to look to Jesus and the example He has set with regard to women, whether in leadership over others, or whether working alongside others. Again, examples could be given, but not without the risk of interjecting personal bias. Take some time to research Christ’s involvement with women and allow the Lord to guide you in this study.

As long as there is sin in the world, there will be prejudice. God sets kingdoms and He destroys kingdoms as a result of actions taken by mankind. Prayerfully and objectively consider the times you may have been rejected. I believe individual solutions can be determined by this exercise. What have you learned? Can you see God’s hand in the situation? The answers to these questions may not always be positive, however, God has a way of “righting” a “wrong” in His timing. His ways and thoughts are far above our own. I absolutely believe that His plan for our lives will prevail IF we surrender all forms of entitlement, humbly posture ourselves to receive His direction, and choose appointment rather than dis-appointment, THEN we are positioned properly and can receive His greatest blessings!