We live in a busy world, and it is not uncommon to get distracted. A recent study showed that the average employee is distracted 56 times a day.[1] This naturally leads to a variety of negative consequences, such as not completing important tasks. In the Christian life, it is easy to get distracted by many things rather than focusing on the primary task of following Jesus. An example of this is found in the life of Peter, which reminds us today to look unto Jesus alone.
In John 21:15-25, we find the conclusion of the gospel with an account of Peter’s restoration. Peter had denied the Lord three times just as Jesus had said that Peter would (see John 13:36-38), but the Lord graciously restored Peter three times. After telling Peter what kind of death he would experience one day, Jesus issued Peter a simple command to “follow me.” Instead of focusing on the Lord’s will for his life, Peter turned to compare himself to John. In response, Jesus tells Peter that what happens to John is none of his concern. Peter needed to focus on the task the Lord gave him and not compare himself to others.
“The Lord rebuked Peter for being distracted over John’s future. Peter’s only responsibility was to follow Christ, the top priority for all of us.”[2]
Like Peter, we too can become distracted by comparing ourselves to others rather than focusing our attention on the Lord and following him. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we need to spend time with the Lord, asking what His will is for our own lives. Our primary goal should be to grow in our walk with the Lord. We can only do this when our focus is on him alone.
“When other believers appear more prosperous in ministry or life, the Lord’s disciple must keep a focus on Christ’s command, Follow Me!”[3]
The world that we live in is unlikely to become less busy or have fewer distractions. We learn from Peter that he was looking at John instead of the Lord. We must learn to look to Jesus alone. Not another believer, a pastor, teacher, sports figure, or politician, but to Christ alone.
“Thou my everlasting portion; More than friend or life to me; All alone my pilgrim journey; Saviour let me walk with Thee.”[4]
Blessings,
Pastor Steven
[1] https://www.talkboxbooth.com/post/shocking-cost-workplace-distractions. Accessed on 11/04/2024.
[2] The Ryrie Study Bible, NASB 95 Updated Edition, pg. 1337.
[3] The Moody Bible Commentary, pg. 1663.
[4] Fanny Crosby, Close to Thee.