Meditation for Perfectionists – Friday March 05, 2021

What a Relief!

Matthew 16:21-23: “Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. ‘Never, Lord!’ he said. ‘This shall never happen to you!'” (v.22).

“I want you to be aware that in a few days I’m going to be killed,” said Jesus.

Upon hearing these words, Peter decided he’d better have a talk with Jesus. “There’s just no way we can let this happen to you,” he said.

Jesus response was immediate. “Peter, you think you’re helping, but you’re actually hindering me. Stop trying to be bigger than God.”

Some of us are like Peter. We attempt to step in and protect or rescue another from upcoming pain, confusion, or hurt. But to do so may be hindering God’s plan for insight and growth in our loved one’s life. We cannot always know God’s agenda for another’s spiritual maturity. Peter’s interference could have blocked God’s beneficial plan for Jesus — and us.

Sometimes we try so hard to make everything right for someone else that it completely wears us out — physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. What a relief to learn that we do not have to be the protector in every situation.

Lord, please help me to step aside and watch you work.
I know you have a plan and I am grateful.

Copyright Joan C. Webb

For more from Joan Webb visit www.joancwebb.com