What is that to you?

September 8, 2025

Slowly, I’ve been plodding my way through the gospels in my own personal Bible reading. I’ve taken a meditative approach, reading in an unhurried pace, not even reaching the “chapter a day” goal many have.

I finished the book of John recently, and Jesus’ final conversation with Peter (in this book at least) caught my attention. The Lord laid a few thoughts on my heart that I hope will be an encouragement to you as well.

Jesus famously asked Peter three times if he loved Him, all to prompt Peter’s thinking and assess his true love of the Savior. Jesus then goes on to foretell of Peter’s death and his lack of personal choice in those final days. Almost like a child wanting to know what is going to happen to another child, Peter asks the Lord what will happen to John. Jesus redirects Peter’s attention and plainly tells him what his thoughts should be focused on,

John 21:22 Jesus saith unto him [Peter], If I will that he [John] tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.  

There are so many simple yet profoundly practical truths packed right here in this verse. None of my thoughts are particularly astute or even “super spiritual” yet sometimes it’s the simple truths that really embed themselves into our hearts and actually affect our daily living.

If I will that he tarry till I come…

First, I see here the individual will of God for each of His children. Jesus had a plan for Peter and a plan for John, and neither of those plans were identical. Jesus has individual plans for each of His children, and no two plans look alike. Dear friend, if you are a child of God, He has a unique and special plan for you! Only you can fulfill the wonderful purpose that God has for you on this earth.

Instead of looking around wondering if you are “worthy” or “amazing” enough in the eyes of others, take joy in the path and provisions that God has laid before you. The less I ponder other people’s paths and provisions and focus on what God has given me and what He wants me to do, I am so much happier. I can still rejoice with others, but I am no longer bound by jealousy or completely absorbed in what others have and do.

…what is that to thee?

Second, I see that God doesn’t want us to be caught up in other people’s business. While we should always have a brotherly affection and care for others, we should not be unduly worried about God’s plans for others in a jealous or envious way.

Something that my husband and I have been working with our children is to “mind their own business.” In a world where people want others to know their business, it seems old-fashioned to teach children not to get into other’s business, yet minding our own business and responsibilities is scriptural. “What about so and so?” a child may ask. “You need to focus on your duty,” is a typical response from my husband or myself.

…follow thou me.

Third, God wants our focus to be on Him. Jesus does not ask us to know all the outcomes or understand every turn in the road, but He asks us to simply take the next step of obedience and then the next step and so on.

God calls different people to different ministries and settings. Some are dynamic and "front and center." Many serve faithfully in quiet, unknown places with little to no recognition. Is one more spiritual than another? Only in the level of obedience and submission could one be considered “more spiritual.” Location doesn’t determine spirituality; surrender and obedience determine spiritual maturity. Follow thou me.

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Friends, I hope this short devotional encouraged your heart and brought renewed focus and attention in a world that screams for our attention. Yet, quieting our hearts and focusing on what God wants us to do is the only path to true contentment and happiness.

Have a blessed week!

-Ashley

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