The work of evangelizing requires effort, dedication and commitment, although the fruit of that work is not always immediately visible.
A passage in Luke 5 reflects what we as laborers go through often. The fishermen had spent the whole night fishing without obtaining favorable results, although they were in the right place at the right time (v. 5). They returned discouraged and dedicated themselves to cleaning the nets.
Jesus, seeing the discouragement of these men, told them to take the boat to deeper waters and let down the nets there (v. 4). Simon decided that if Jesus asked him to, he would try again, although he couldn’t see or understand why he should. Simon was obedient.
Believing in what Jesus said was the key to the men’s large catch that day. The courage to try again came through the words of Jesus. They were fishing the same waters that had turned up nothing. But they had a new mission.
Obedience to Jesus must always drive us. If He encourages us to try again, we can accomplish anything.
Prayer + Reflection
- Pray for leaders who are going through a time of discouragement, and those who are working hard but don’t see fruit.
- Pray for clarity and direction, that you will hear the voice of Jesus leading you where you should go.
- Pray for laborers for the current harvest of a difficult season. The fields are ready! May our churches be seedbeds of obedient workers for the harvest.
- Let’s pray for Foursquare Missions workers worldwide. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many experienced separation from their families and ministries, and in some cases, loss of people they serve and love. Ask Jesus to strengthen our FMI workers and cover their lives with His grace.
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