By Andrew Williams
John 21:18-19 (NLT): “‘I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.’ Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, ‘Follow me.'”
Good morning fellow disciples.
In this passage, Jesus speaks directly to Peter about the cost of following Him. He predicts Peter’s future martyrdom in service to the Gospel, describing a time when Peter will no longer have control over his own life. Yet, Jesus ends this solemn revelation with a simple, yet profound command: “Follow me.”
Here, Jesus is teaching Peter—and us—that discipleship is about surrender. It’s not just about following Jesus in moments of joy and peace, but also in moments of difficulty and sacrifice. Jesus redirects Peter’s focus from his own desires or fears to the higher calling of glorifying God, even in his death. This is a powerful reminder that our ultimate purpose is not comfort or self-preservation, but to live fully and faithfully for the glory of God.
Simon Peter’s life empowers us to embrace the cost of discipleship with courage and trust. Peter, who once denied Jesus out of fear, would eventually live out this prophecy, boldly proclaiming the Gospel and glorifying God through his martyrdom. His journey reminds us that Jesus transforms us through His grace, enabling us to face challenges and trials with unwavering faith. Peter’s story teaches us that even when following Jesus requires sacrifice, we can trust in His plan and His eternal reward.
Today, consider what it means to follow Jesus fully, even when it costs you something. Are there areas of your life where you are holding back, clinging to comfort or control? Redirect your focus to Jesus’ call: “Follow me.” This doesn’t mean we seek out suffering, but that we trust Jesus enough to follow Him wherever He leads—be it through joy, sacrifice, or even hardship.
Take a moment to examine your heart. Identify one area where you need to surrender more fully to Jesus’ call to follow Him. Write it down as a prayerful commitment, asking Him for the strength and courage to live for His glory, no matter the cost.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to follow You, no matter where the journey leads. Help me to redirect my focus from my own fears, comfort, or desires to the greater purpose of glorifying You. Give me the courage to trust You in every circumstance, even when the path is difficult. Like Peter, I want to live a life that honors You, boldly proclaiming Your name and serving You faithfully. I surrender my life to You, knowing that You are my strength and my reward. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
