Karl Ihfe continues the "Expectation Gap" series by tackling the third gap: we believe God wants us to grow, but we're often disappointed by our progress. Speaking honestly about his own 37-year journey with Christ, Karl admits he thought he'd be "a little further along" by now - more patient, less selfish, quicker to forgive. He suggests that part of our struggle comes from misusing Scripture by always asking "What should I do?" instead of first asking "What does this teach me about God?"
Using the familiar story from Matthew 14 of Jesus walking on water, Karl offers a fresh perspective. While we typically focus on Peter's boldness in stepping out of the boat, Karl points out a crucial detail: 92% of the disciples stayed in the boat, yet 100% of them worshiped when Jesus calmed the storm. The point of the story isn't Peter's faith or courage, but Jesus's sovereignty over wind and waves. Karl argues that we've turned Scripture into a highlight reel, stacking up impossible expectations - be bold like Peter, contemplative like Mary, courageous like Daniel, wise like Deborah. This creates exhausting pressure rather than genuine transformation. Instead, Jesus doesn't ask us to become someone else; He redeems our personalities and helps us become the best version of who we were created to be.
