by Marjorie Wingert When Jesus first met his disciple, Simon Peter, Christ called him to obedience. Peter had just returned from an unsuccessful night of fishing. Imagine his surprise when Jesus climbed into his boat and asked him to row into shallow water. There, Jesus taught while the people listened from shore. Once Jesus finished speaking, He instructed Peter to go fishing. Peter was faced with a choice. Should he do what he had been asked? Or would he refuse? After all, Peter had just returned from fishing. He had been out all night and was tired with nothing to show for his labors. Peter may not have felt like doing what Jesus asked but Peter chose to trust and obey. After Peter did as Jesus said, the most amazing thing happened. They caught so many fish that their nets began to break. Can you picture how excited Peter must have been? There were so many fish, Peter needed another boat’s help. What a sight it must have been to see both boats sinking from catching so many fish!
Although Peter did not want to go out fishing again, he chose to say “yes” to Jesus. Peter would have missed out on a huge blessing if he had not stepped out in faith. His nets would still be empty instead of full of fish. It is the same for you and me. Our nets come up empty when we do not yield to Jesus. When we choose to obey His Will, follow His ways, and trust Him, God fills our net with blessings. Like Peter, God can even give more blessings than we could have fathomed. These blessings come in many ways. Often these blessings look different than what we expect. They may come from a smile, hug, or thank you from your child or a friend. They could be your boss giving you more responsibility because they can trust you to do what they ask. The blessing might be a happier house because you are choosing to submit to your husband instead of arguing. It might even be the good feeling you get when you know you have made the right decision. And sometimes, the blessing may even be the very thing your heart desires. Like Peter, you are faced with the same choice of obedience. Should I do what God has asked? Will I follow my employer’s instructions? Do I choose to do the right thing even when my friends do not? Will I follow Jesus? But also, like Peter, you will be blessed when you obey. For with obedience comes blessings. Choose to fill your nets with the blessings of obedience.
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