How does Peter's curiosity in John 21:20 challenge us to trust God's plan? Setting the Scene After breakfast on the Galilean shore, Jesus has just recommissioned Peter. The coals are still warm, the waves gentle, and Peter’s heart is both restored and stirred. Peter’s Sideways Glance John 21:20: “Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them.” John 21:21: “When Peter saw him, he asked, ‘Lord, what about him?’” • Peter’s curiosity is natural—yet it shifts his gaze from Christ to comparison. • Even after forgiveness and fresh calling, the temptation to measure our path by another’s remains strong. Jesus’ Direct Answer John 21:22: “If I want him to remain until I return, what is that to you? You follow Me.” • Jesus redirects Peter’s focus: God’s individualized plan for others is none of our business. • The command is simple, personal, and non-negotiable: “You follow Me.” Timeless Challenges for Us • Resist comparison: our lane is ours alone (cf. Romans 9:20). • Submit to God’s sovereignty: His plans are wise, loving, and particular. • Focus on obedience over information—faith rests on the Commander, not detailed maps. • Accept mystery: Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds that “the hidden things belong to the LORD our God.” Practical Ways to Trust God’s Plan • Begin each day by reaffirming, “Lord, my story is Yours—lead on.” • Celebrate others’ callings instead of questioning them. • Memorize key trust verses (Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:28) and recite when curiosity turns to envy. • Journal God’s past faithfulness; yesterday’s proofs fuel today’s confidence. • Keep eyes forward: Hebrews 12:1-2 urges us to “run with endurance” by fixing them on Jesus. Supporting Scriptures to Strengthen Trust • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart … He will make your paths straight.” • Jeremiah 29:11: “I know the plans I have for you … to give you a future and a hope.” • Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good to those who love God.” • Hebrews 12:2: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Walking Forward with Focus Peter’s brief detour into comparison reminds us that God’s plan is tailor-made. When curiosity tempts us to look sideways, Jesus’ words still ring clear: “What is that to you? You follow Me.” |
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