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Monday, June 3, 2019

Letting God Turn My Work Setbacks into Comebacks

In review of Luke 5:6, I'm told how that “When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break” (NIV).

Today’s verse is Luke 5:6. In it Luke is telling the story of a miraculous catch of fish. He tells us of how they let down their nets again and caught such a large number of fish that the nets were about to break.

Peter was awestruck at this miracle. He was amazed that Jesus cared about his day-to-day routine and understood his needs. This helps me realize that God is interested not only in saving me but also in helping me in my daily activities.

When I feel discouraged with my work, or feel worn out from overwork or when I’ve put my heart and soul into a project, and it simply fails. I’m in good company.

In this story, it’s what happens next that’s truly important. Just ask Simon Peter and Andrew. Luke 5 tells us that the two brothers had been out all night fishing. As professional fishermen, if they didn’t catch fish, they didn’t make money. But in Luke 5, they’d caught nothing. To put it into modern lingo, it was as if the lake had gone into a recession. The brothers were discouraged and tired. But then Jesus comes along and does the impossible.

After borrowing their boat to teach from, Jesus tells Simon Peter: “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4 NIV). Simon Peter’s response is typical of those times when frustration has set in: “But Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything” (Luke 5:5 NIV).

I know I’ve hit this stage. I’ve given my work my best shot and come up empty. I’ve done everything right and may even believe God led me to do what I’m doing, but have nothing to show for it.

Then Jesus does a miracle. He doesn’t just meet these guys’ need. He totally blows them away in the process. The Bible says, “When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break” (Luke 5:6 NIV). Not only do they catch enough fish for themselves, but God also gives them enough to share.

After Simon Peter and Andrew do what Jesus tells them to do, they catch more fish in 10 minutes than they had in the previous 10 hours. God turns a setback into a comeback. My comeback may be just around the corner, too.

Whether I’ve failed badly five times in a row, none of that matters. God can turn the faucet on quicker than it was turned off. And then I might need a bigger boat.

In summary, as Jesus requested they let their nets down again and caught a large number of fish. Simon Peter was amazed that Jesus care about his day-to-day routine and needs. God is interested not only in saving me, but also in helping me in my daily activities. Even when I feel I have done all that I can, I need to listen to Jesus and do as he tells me. My comeback may be just around the corner. God can turn on the faucet quicker than it was turned off.

Father this morning I thank you for the remember of your caring for my day-to-day needs, even my work. It is important that I bring you into my work and listen/do as you say. You will bring in the bountiful harvest at the right time. I shouldn’t give up. Just keep listening and following. I pray this morning Father for your influence in my daily work life. Give me the wisdom and guidance I need to be of service and loving to others. I pray this in your son Jesus name, amen.

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