What Jesus Did! 'What About...?' — John 21:20-22

Sunday, December 30, 2018

Peter turned and saw the follower that Jesus loved walking behind them. (This was the follower that had leaned against Jesus at the supper and said, "Lord, who will turn against you?") When Peter saw this follower behind them he asked Jesus, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "Maybe I want him to live until I come. That should not be important to you. You follow me!"
— John 21:20-22 NLT
Illustration of John 21:20-22 NLT — "Maybe I want him to live until I come. That should not be important to you. You follow me!"

Key Thought

It is so hard not to compare! We want to compare our lot with others. We want to compare our future with others. We want to compare our faith, our church, our efforts... Christianity isn't about comparing. God doesn't grade on the curve. He calls us to follow him whole-heartedly through the course of our uniquely important and distinctive life. Comparing ourselves to others is the cause of envy, jealousy, strife, covetousness, resentment, and a host of other sins. Instead, we are to follow and serve and help encourage others to do the same!

Today's Prayer

O God, the Almighty and gracious Father, thank you for judging me with grace, empowering me with your Spirit, and calling me to a wonderfully unique life in your service. Forgive me for the times I've been envious of other believers. Forgive me for comparing my faith with others, whose hearts I could not know. Focus me on your will and lead me to you so that the glory that others see in me is attributed to your grace and presence in my life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • James 3:13-18
  • Galatians 6:2-5
  • Romans 14:4

Comments

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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