There is a subtle difference between what faith is and what we think faith is. Often, we confuse 'faith' with 'expectation'. While faith brings boundless joy, expectation brings boundless misery. Based on a meaningful and impactful personal experience with Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba (blog at: http://aravindb1982.hubpages.com/hub/The-Middle-Path-the-golden-mean), here is an attempt to distinguish faith from expectation.
Faith is the conviction that Truth alone triumphs (Satyameva Jayate) and Righteousness protects the righteous ones (Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitaha). Expectation is when we start charting the 'how' and 'when' Truth should triumph or Righteousness should protect!
Also included are two powerful anecdotes involving Swami and devotees. Giving up expectation will ensure that we do not miss God because He came to us in a way we weren't expecting!
This is a talk delivered at the Satsangh Hall in Prasanthi NIlayam.