August 19, 2019: SOAP #3546:  Jeremiah 45-47; Psalm 105; John 21

Scripture:  John (NIV) 21:4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. 6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.

Observation:   How long had Jesus been watching their futile efforts?  If they noticed him standing on the shore, they did not recognize who he was.

He was interested in what they were doing.  He initiated the conversation.  He called out to them.  If he had waited for them to call to him, they would have returned to shore with empty nets and empty boats.

He had the key for their success.  When they followed his directions, they immediately had overwhelming success.

Application:   Jesus is interested in me.  He died for me.  He has taken up residence in me.  There is nothing I do that Jesus is not interested in.  He is interested in everything I do—everything I will do today.  Knowing that he is interested, it is worthwhile for me to wait and get any instructions he has for me.

I must let Him measure my success by His standards.  Success may be a boatful of fish.  Success may be just two fish that he multiplies.  Success may be my faith-filled, victorious, attitude when I return with nothing.

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, the measure of my success is your smile. There is no boatload of fish that could ever measure up to your, “Well done.” Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!