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Three Things To Remember As You Face Your Fears

1) Comfort Is Not The Goal

Jesus reminds Peter of the comfort of his youth and warns him that his future will be far more difficult. Following Jesus is the most fulfilling way to live because we are fulfilling the purpose we have been designed for, but it is also difficult because we live in a broken world under the sway of a real enemy who is offended by our message!

2) Purpose Moves You Forward

In later years, Peter would develop a better understanding of Jesus’ words. He would be imprisoned, beaten, ridiculed, and eventually murdered because of his commitment to Christ. In the book of Acts, we see that a burning desire to share the message of Jesus is what gives the apostles the boldness to keep moving forward!

3) Death Has Lost Its Sting

Though it is not explicitly stated in Scripture, many historians believe that Peter was crucified. How is it possible that he remained faithful, even when facing death? Peter, as well as millions of other Christians, have been martyred (killed for their faith) over the past 2,000 years. We can confidently embrace death because we know it is not the end of the story. Death on this earth simply means we are transitioning into eternity with Him!

Big Idea

Remembering that comfort is not the goal, purpose moves you forward, and death has lost its sting will help you be bold in scary situations!

Let's Think About This

Question #1: What is one thing that “jumped out” to you while reading John 21:18-19?

Question #2: Which of the three components of facing your fears (comfort is not the goal, purpose moves you forward, and death has lost its sting) resonates the most with you?

Question #3: Reflect on a moment when God provided you with strength and peace amidst fear. What insights did you gain from that experience?