Comparison. It’s a thief that robs us of joy and clouds the unique purpose God has for each of us. It sneaks in quietly when we look at someone else’s life—at their success, their gifts, their story—and wonder, What about me?
Peter had a moment like this with Jesus. After the resurrection, on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, Jesus restored Peter’s calling with three simple words: “Follow me” (John 21:19). It was a profound moment—Jesus reaffirming Peter’s role after his devastating denial. But Peter, like us, was prone to distraction. Turning, he saw John following behind and asked, “Lord, what about this man?” (John 21:21).
Jesus’ response was both firm and freeing: “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” (John 21:22). What is that to you? Jesus’ words cut through Peter’s comparison and reoriented his focus. Peter wanted to know God’s plan for John, but Jesus reminded him that John’s path was not Peter’s concern. God had a specific, planned, and purposed path for Peter—one that required his undivided trust and obedience.
We live in a world that constantly invites us to measure our lives against others. We scroll through highlights and wonder why their story seems easier, more successful, or more significant than ours. Like Peter, we find ourselves asking, What about them? Why is their journey different? Why do they have what I lack?
But God’s answer remains the same: “What is that to you? You follow me.” God’s purpose for your life is not a generic, one-size-fits-all plan. It is specific. It is intentional. It is crafted with care by the One who knows you better than you know yourself. Paul writes, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:10). Your path—the one God has prepared for you—does not depend on someone else’s calling. It is uniquely yours.
When comparison whispers, What about them? let God’s voice be louder: “What is that to you? I am leading you.” He is the God who writes your story—one that is specific, planned, and purposed for His glory and your good.