Beware the snare to compare

Then Peter, turning around saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also had leand on His breast at the supper, and said, "Lord, who is the one who betrays You?" Peter seeing him, said to Jesus, "But Lord, what about this man?" Jesus said to him, "If I will that he remains till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me." John 21:20-22

Comparisons, they're everywhere. We see them in magazines, on television, in the classroom, and even in churches. We all seem to have a curiosity for what others are doing, and a concern about how we might measure up to them, and it's all too easy to get tangled in the deceitful web that we are greater or lesser.

Depending on contributing values in our personal self-assessment, we can easily become the victim of our own arrogant pride, or shatter ourselves on the false assumption that we have nothing of worth to offer. Both are dangerous tools the enemy uses to disrupt our walk with the Lord and the impact of our ministry to one another and the world around us.

Peter got distracted in His conversation with Jesus when he saw John following them. Instead of remaining fixed on the task he had been given, his immediate concern was what Christ had in mind for the other. So beautifully human nature, but a sad reflection on how quickly we can lose our focus.

Jesus was standing right in front of him, had given him immense grace, a wonderful task and specifically told him "Follow Me." And still Peter became distracted by his concern of what another was doing.

Jesus graciously reminded Peter that it is not for him to concern himself about another's walk, but to be obedient in following Him. It was great advice for Peter and stands as great advice to us as well.

Our job is not to compare our selves with other's, but to keep our eyes on Jesus and follow Him.

May His light be ever brilliant before us so we would desire to never look away.
#thevelveteengrandma