1 question to battle discontentment
Simon Peter was having an in-depth conversation with Jesus as they walked next to the Sea of Galilee. Jesus warned Peter that his future was going to include persecution and imprisonment. Then, Peter saw John following them and asked, “What about him?”
Misery loves company; perhaps Peter wanted the assurance that he wasn’t going to suffer alone. Jesus’s answer was surprising: “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me” (John 21:22).
Penetrating question
What is that to you?We all need to hear the Lord ask us that question on occasion, particularly we pastors who are prone to compare ourselves with other churches, leaders, authors or TV evangelists . . . just to name a few.
We do this even though a primary reason for discontentment is the mistake of comparing our circumstances with others. When we suffer, we look at those who seem to have it easier and ask, “What about those parents . . why are their kids not giving them trouble?” or “What about that businessman . . . he’s getting rich and I’m on the verge of bankruptcy.”
No matter how good we have it, someone always has it better. Someone makes more money, has smarter and more athletic children, a more attractive spouse, or a nicer home. Yet 2 Corinthians 10:12 says whenever people “compare themselves with themselves they are not wise.”
Different assignments
No two people are alike. Peter and John’s assignments were totally different. Suffering and blessings are not distributed equally. Since this world is contaminated with sin, there will not be much fairness until Judgment Day. On that day, the last will be first and the first last. Until then, quit comparing yourself to anyone else. You are unique.
I am always astounded at how the Lord blessed my life. I grew up in a rural community, attended a church of less than 100, and had few goals. I am overwhelmed that I later became the pastor of one of the nation’s largest churches.
My theme verse is Ephesians 3:20: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” That passage is displayed on a wall in our kitchen.
But in spite of all God has done, I have to guard against jealousy. Nineteen years ago, I wrote a book about the phenomenal history of Southeast Christian, When God Builds a Church. The book did reasonably well, selling over 60,000 copies which is far above average for Christian titles.
However, one day, I saw a newspaper headline: “Rick Warren’s book, ‘The Purpose Driven Church’ sells six million copies.” My heart sank. I thought, “Six million copies? Wow! If he gets a dollar a book, that’s six million dollars! My church is as large as his. My book is half as good as his. Lord, I’d settle for three million dollars!”
Bloom where planted
How silly! God had blessed my ministry far beyond what I’d ever asked or imagined, and suddenly, I’m discontented. It only took a few minutes for me to hear the Lord’s whisper, “What is that to you?”
If the Lord chooses to bless Rick Warren with an exceptional ministry, I should rejoice. I’m not in competition with Rick; we are on the same team. We are co-workers with Christ.
To be honest, I wouldn’t want to deal with his daily pressures, media scrutiny, or painful experiences. One of the secrets of a joyful life is to bloom where we are planted and rejoice over the opportunities and blessings God has given us.
Next time you battle jealousy, stop and hear the voice of Jesus asking, “What is that to you?” Or re-read the wise words of the apostle Paul: “I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:11-13).
Those are wise words for anyone struggling with discontentment.
Photo source: istock
 | Bob Russell became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church at just 22 years old. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches; conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups. Learn More » |
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