Another new word but when I read it I know exactly what it means. I, too, insist upon attention, help, or advice from others. Some days I would rather give out a lot of advice to a lot of people! I think my ideas are better than theirs. We want what we want. This demandingness is sometimes associated with depression. Mike Mason uses the term in his very excellent book, ‘Practicing the Presence of People’.
I admire a two-year-old who can throw a tantrum with purpose. There is an object of their affection and they won’t take no for an answer. Now – not later. This term also conjures up a picture of that driver we all despise who cuts in front because their destination is more urgent than yours. We want what we want so how do we tame this beast – this carnality? Moderation in all things? Maybe a better idea is in Jesus Sermon on the Mount in Chapter 7 of Matthew. In five chapters later Jesus sends them out two by two so they must have been quick learners.
Matt 7:12, “Therefore whatever you want others to do for you, do so for them; for this is the Law and the Prophets.” This is a good start. Thinking of others tames demandingness.
Matt 7:24-25, “Therefore, every one who hears these words of Mine, and acts upon them, may be compared to a wise man, who built his house upon the rock; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and burst against that house; and yet it did not fall; for it had been founded upon the rock.” Be convinced that the thing we are demanding is based on good theology and the care of others.
Matt 7:13, “Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide, and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter by it.” When we insist on our own way make sure we demand the narrow gate which will be the harder thing. These days there is much in the world that demands a big fat NO.
And one more, Matt 7:17, “Even so every good tree bears good fruit; but the rotten tree bears bad fruit.” Demand good things. Surround ourselves with people we admire so we can model their care of others. Look for the good fruit and duplicate. Demandingness can make us better able to show God’s love.