January 9

Matthew 4:18-25 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.

Observation

As Jesus began His public ministry, one of the first things he did was seeking out His potential disciples. Rather than waiting for people to be drawn to Him, He Himself initiated reaching out to invite Peter, Andrew, James and John to follow Him. At His calling, they responded with great faith and obedience, immediately leaving their comfort and security of their jobs, possessions and families and followed Jesus. As a result of their obedience, they got to experience great pleasure and privilege of witnessing and partaking in Jesus’ ministry as He preached the gospel and performed countless miracles.

Application

What a great demonstration of complete obedience these very first disciples modeled for me! There was no long convincing speech or promise of wealth and prosperity necessary to persuade them to immediately drop everything they had to follow Jesus. They did not weigh and calculate the cost of staying vs following Jesus. How often have I delayed or put off doing what God was asking me to do because of my selfishness and I was too scared to let go of my false security. How much blessings have I missed out because of my disobedience. I need to follow and practice the lifestyle of obedience more and experience the vibrant life that Jesus has in store for me.

Prayer

Father God, please allow me the boldness and courage to step out in faith and obedience to be a better witness for Christ in my workplace and home. May I learn to obey you unconditionally without hesitation or reservation as you show me what needs to be done for your Kingdom work. In Jesus name, Amen

--JL