January 29, 2009
DAY 12
Posted by KI Contributor
Scripture: Luke 5:1-11
Peter, Learning to Do Life Together with Jesus
This familiar story speaks powerfully to my heart as I can relate to Peter when he said, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and caught nothing.” Now what was the reason for this? It was not because Peter didn’t have the skill of fishing. It was not because he was lazy. It was not because he didn’t try enough. He worked hard all night. It was not even because there were not enough fish in the sea. The answer is much deeper. Here, through his painful failure, Peter learned that there is no power in human efforts apart from the presence of Jesus.
Without Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). But with Christ we can do all things. Jesus’ presence confers success. Peter experienced the miracle catch as he obeyed Jesus’ simple command, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” Here Peter learned how to do life with Jesus, trusting the Lord instead of trusting himself.
As I reflect on all my years in the ministry, I know I trusted myself way too much and trusted the Lord way too little. I see myself trying to do life with my human efforts apart from Jesus. This can lead to a busy life without bearing much fruit. But God has a better plan. He invites us to an adventurous journey with Jesus today.
Father, as I go out this morning and extend myself in the name of Jesus, I humbly recognize my limitations and earnestly seek Your presence, for I know I can’t do life without You.
PRAYER FOCUS: Your Friends
Think of your friends and family members who are far from God. Perhaps there is nobody in their lives who cares enough to pray for them and share Jesus’ love with them. You may be the only one who can point them to Jesus. Pray that they will turn their hearts toward God as they recognize their human limitations. Pray for God’s wisdom on how you can be an extension of God’s blessing to them.
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