All members of the church are uniquely different. Some have more in common than others, but the vastness of our differences will always exceed our similarities.
Differences are a good thing. God created us uniquely different so that we would fulfill uniquely different destinies doing uniquely different service for God (Ephesians 2:10).
Differences can also be a bad thing, but not because of God, but because of us. How can this be? It often happens when we get excited about something, but others don’t join us in our excitement.
We don’t mind individual differences as much when it comes to the ordinary things of life, such as, what foods we like versus what others like, or what hobbies we enjoy versus what others enjoy, but other differences cause great divisiveness, such as, political views and religious convictions.
One of the greatest discouragements that I have experienced while following Jesus is when others didn’t follow Jesus like I do. What I mean is that I have been guilty of expecting others to be just as excited about the same service to the Lord that I am excited about, and when they are not, feeling discouraged.
I’ve learned that I am not alone in these feelings, but that doesn’t mean that my feelings are justified.
Everyone is at a different place in their life, spiritually speaking. And even if we were all in the same place spiritually, that still doesn’t make us the same in what specific types of service God is calling us to perform.
So how do I deal with this problem of mine? The heart of my discouragement comes from when I place expectations on others.
William Shakespeare said, “Expectation is the root of all heartache.” And an unknown author said, “Expectations are premeditated resentments.” Both are helpful statements.
It’s very difficult to not place expectations on others though, so, in the context of following Jesus, how do I overcome this? Jesus had some words for Peter that I think are beneficial.
In John 21, Jesus gives Peter some very specific instructions, He says three times, “Tend my lambs,” and “Shepherd My sheep,” and “Tend my sheep.” Jesus is telling Peter that he is to be a shepherd of the church, a spiritual guide.
Instead of simply accepting the task assigned to him, Peter immediately wants to know what Jesus will expect of John, he says, “Lord, and what about this man?” To which Jesus replies, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!” Jesus was telling Peter that when it comes to following Him, to not worry about what other people are doing, just remain faithful yourself.
I am still trying to learn to follow Jesus without placing expectations on others and being discouraged when my expectations are not met. Next week, we’ll discuss what happens when Christians align in their following of Jesus.
Much love!
Wes LeFlore (918) 607-8489 or huskerwes1@gmail.com
