GPS Guide – March 6, 2020
ENVY
Introduction: This week we will be focusing on the sin of Envy. Envy is traditionally listed as one of the “7 deadly sins” because it is a sin that can lead us on a path to many other sins. This week we will examine envy, and the way in which we might be able to escape its powerful grip. ~ Pastor Adam Ricks
Friday
Read: John 21:20-22
” 20 Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”) 21 When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” 22 Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” (NIV John 21:20-22)
Study: Peter asks Jesus about the role of the beloved disciple after Jesus has just instructed Peter to be the rock upon which the church is built. Peter is distracted by the role of another, and Jesus quickly reminds him that he is not called to worry about what others are doing, but instead focus on the job that Jesus has for him. We can avoid envy by focusing on doing the things that God has called each of us to do. Some people will have more than us, while others will have less. Some people will have easier lives than us, while others will have more difficult lives. Jesus expects us to be so focused on our calling that we do not have time to worry about the work that God is calling others to do. What is God calling you to do? Do you believe that you are doing everything that you can to be faithful to God’s calling for your life? Can you re-direct envious energy into the energy needed to live faithfully obedient to Christ?
Prayer: Help me to focus on your plans for my life. Whenever I am distracted by envy, please refocus me back to the plan that you have for me. Amen.