Memory Verse January #2

January #2.   John 21:21–22

[21] When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” [22] Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” (John 21:21–22 ESV)

[Context: This passage is a reminder not to compare ourselves with others.  This leads to judging God and his goodness to us.  Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1, had opportunity to be bitter at the circumstances of their life, feeling their prayers were not being answered as they were for others, from their limited perspective.  This could impact how they felt about God and his love for them, and lead to self-pitying “why me?” type questions.  Similarly, in John 21, Peter, after hearing of how he would give his life for the cause of the Gospel, began to compare himself with others like John, who may have a much longer seemingly easier life.  The key line to memorize is: “what is that to you?  You follow me!”     God has given us the opportunity to glorify him – the One who has loved us and given himself for us – in a unique way.  Let us not worry about the calling of others – but rejoice that we have been given the privilege of following him as he has made us to be.    Another passage I have memorized is from 2 Cor. 10.    This can be a bonus verse if you wish:

2 Corinthians 10:12b ESV

[12b] But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding. (or “are not wise” as some versions say.) ]