Outside The Box

[Jesus] said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

Luke 5:1–5

God often acts in ways that make no sense to us. We think we need to take the left fork in the road, and he takes us to the right. We might think our way is best, based on our knowledge and experiences. If it were up to us, we’d do things the way we always have, even if it causes pain.

Pause and read Luke 5:1–5 through three different lenses: First, consider the boat and the fishermen. It was inconvenient for Simon to loan his boat to Jesus. Why? The boat was not ready. The fishing day had ended, and Simon and his peers were washing their nets and putting their gear away. Second, the Bible says Peter and his coworkers were tired. They had worked all night. According to National Geographic, a fishing net can weigh ten to fifteen pounds when it’s empty and can exceed 100 pounds when full.2 Yet despite the disciples’ fatigue, Jesus was calling them to try one more thing. Third, the disciples hadn’t caught any fish. These professional fishermen had been unsuccessful in delivering the goods. Jesus was challenging their sense of expertise and demonstrating what can happen when situations—even failures—are left in his hands.

Maybe you’ve done everything you know how to do to and haven’t found victory. But maybe you sense God asking you to put aside your know-how and try one more time … his way. Let down your net and get ready for a catch.

Normality is a paved road. It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.

Vincent van Gogh

God has wonderful plans for you—if you let him lead and comfort.

Colin McCartney

When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven’t.

Thomas Edison

For Further Reflection

Luke 5:1–11; 1 Corinthians 2:13; Isaiah 55:8–9

Today’s Prayer

Father, please forgive me for the times I ignored your prompts and proceeded using my own understanding and my own will. Please give me the courage to let down my net again. Amen.