Pater toiled all night, but he could not catch any fish. When Jesus told him to cast the net in the morning, he had every reason to tell him why it was a futile effort. He was tired. There were no fish. It was unlikely he could catch anything. Yet, he did as Jesus said. The result was an overwhelming catch of this.
We cannot overstate the importance of listening to God and trusting his word, even when his instructions challenge our understanding or seem illogical or inconvenient. We have moments when we think we are very clever, and we know better. Simon Peter has been a fisherman for a long time. He KNEW all there is to know about catching fish. Yet, he chose to obey Jesus. His obedience demonstrates a humble faith. He acknowledges Jesus’ authority over every situation.
As Christians, obeying God may sometimes requires surrendering our plans, comfort, or reasoning. We might be tempted to hesitate or make excuses. However, true faith is revealed in action, as we are reminded in James 1:22.
“Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
When we listen and obey God, we align ourselves with his perfect will. His commands are not burdensome. Instead, they are life-giving and lead to blessings, both for us and for those around us.
It will do use well to cultivate a heart like Peters,’ ready to say, “because you say so,” and faithfully follow where God leads. Obedience unlocks the extraordinary in our lives.
Father, I want to do as you say.
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