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Mind Your Own Business

I know, I know, I know. The title of this lesson seems kind of harsh. Trust me, you will get it as you read on. In life, there are times when we have heard others use this expression or we have (or wanted to) use this expression in response to someone’s curiosity. Though oftentimes, it is used as a defensive and derogatory statement, it does hold value for the Christian. Consider these verses…

Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follthou me. John 21:20-22 (KJV)

Jesus is giving instructions to Peter concerning his future work and ministry. Yet, Peter becomes preoccupied with thinking about what someone else (John) will do. But Jesus’ response of “what is that to thee” is in a sense, asking Peter “what business is that of yours?” In essence, He is telling Peter to mind his own business and worry about himself.  He then tells Peter, “Follow Me.”

How many times have we become preoccupied with the affairs of others that we neglect what is before us? We know there are numerous issues and problems within Christianity and the Church caused by others. However, we cannot spend too much time focusing on others, but make sure that we are doing what Christ would have for us to do. 

We can become distracted by someone else’s wrong doing. Though we may be affected by the negative  actions  and  attitudes  of others, we cannot allow these things to remove our focus from Christ. 

Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! Luke 17:1 (KJV)

It is true that we can get hurt or offended, but Jesus said that offenses will come. We must remember to forgive and allow His peace to guard our hearts.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil 4:7 (KJV)

We sometimes can become distracted by the labor of others in the Christian community. Sometimes, we can focus on what others are or are not doing that we do not do what we are supposed to do for Christ. This is what Peter demonstrated. Christ finished challenging his love and commitment and Peter asks about John. It was really not to be his concern at that time, but prepare to follow what Christ had instructed him to do. Martha also fell into this trap. She rebuked Jesus because of what Mary was doing.

But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. Luke 10:40 (KJV)

So, remember to mind (or should I say FOCUS) on your own business; that is, the things that you are to do for Him. It will bless you and, in turn, be of great benefit to others.


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