Out of My Way

Posted on by Chris G Thelen

It can be hard to understand God’s purposes. Our limited vision only enables us to see what is present in our lives, not God’s ultimate plan. It can cause us to question what God calls us or others to do.

In Mathew 16:21-23, “Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised up on the third day (21, NASB).” Peter responds by rebuking Jesus: “God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You (22).” To which Jesus forcefully responds: “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s (23).”

I can understand why Peter does not see the purpose for Jesus going to Jerusalem. He must have been horrified to hear Jesus talk about being killed. My first reaction probably would have been the same — to protect my friend, my mentor from harm. Yet in that reaction I too would’ve missed the last part of Jesus’ statement about being raised up on the third day — God’s purpose behind his death.

Jesus’ death and resurrection brought us salvation from our sins. His sacrifice brought life to those who believe in him. It can be hard to understand God’s way and purpose. We must be careful not to look at God’s plan from our human perspective, but maintain a perspective on God’s interests and His Kingdom.

Retrospective: The post originally published April 21, 2020.

© 2020 CGThelen

7 thoughts on “Out of My Way”

  1. As believers, we are blessed with hindsight that Peter did not possess. Yet even today, we must remember to protect our faith from the evil one’s cunning message.

  2. Pingback: Out of My Way – Tonya LaLonde
  3. Pingback: Out of My Way — 140 Character Christian – quietmomentswithgod

  5. Such a thoughtful and well-written post. As scripture reminds us, His ways are above our ways and His thoughts above our thoughts. (Isaiah 55: 8-9) We do not see the whole picture, but we must trust God to put all the pieces together according to His plan. His vision is perfect; our vision is flawed.

    1. Thanks for your thoughtful comment. That’s a great verse from Isaiah. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.

Comments are closed.