josh whitehead

Not sure about you, but sometimes my natural tendency is to worry about others. My worries: are they who they say they are, are they helping others in the Kingdom and do they see things the “right way” (aka “my way”). The problem has been around forever, but I really see it played out in Scripture in John 21. Jesus has just finished restoring Peter in His Kingdom, but Peter quickly turned his attention to someone else. Look:

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?” John 21:20-23, NIV

Peter was worried that John may get more, have more or maybe even be known for more. So, Jesus told Peter not to worry about John. But when Peter retold the story, the rumor mill started.

The lesson: it’s Jesus’ Kingdom. He cares more than I do. He can judge motives and I can’t. He can bring correction that is needed in any situation. He. Doesn’t. Need. My. Help. (In this area). He will take my help in telling others about His Kingdom. He will take my help in training other leaders.

If you just worry about your life and your areas that need growth and development, you will change.

Just worry about you.