When a Carpenter Taught Desperate Fishermen

Daily Devotional – Saturday, March 20, 2021

Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.

Luke 5:4 (NKJV)

What advice would a carpenter give to a fisherman about fishing?  Peter and co, renowned and experienced fishermen, had caught nothing the whole night. A carpenter came to their rescue and taught them an unforgettable lesson.

Jesus wanted a floating pulpit on the sea shore. Peter’s boat was the perfect platform for addressing the multitudes that followed Christ.

The sermon over, the carpenter directed, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4). A bemused Peter replied, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless, at Your word I will let down the net.” (v. 5).

Mr. Carpenter, I am an experienced fisherman. You are a carpenter and a preacher. You know nothing about fishing. To prove you wrong, I will do as you say.

Mr. Fisherman, you don’t know who I am. With all your skills and experience, why did you toil the whole night without catching any fish? I am taking over. Do as I say and wait for the results.

Many times, I find myself conversing with God on the same lines. I turn to God only after I have tried my methods and failed. In His mercy, He comes and reminds me He is God. He bids me try His methods. Only then do I succeed.

Have you exhausted yourself trying to overcome life’s challenges using your best know-how? Why don’t you give up on yourself and follow Jesus’ advice? It may be unusual advice, but it is the best. Launch into the deep. Venture where you never dared before, because Christ directs so.

Lord Jesus. My methods are not working. I surrender to your will today.