Fishers of Men (A Short Devotional): Doubtful Obedience

Because our spiritual disciplines need a fresh anointing everyday and God desires that we increasingly long to discover Him, our devotion for today on Fishers of Men continues and we bring focus on Luke 5:4.

Title: Doubtful Obedience

Focus verse: Luke 5:4 NLT When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.”

Peter was there, perhaps half-busy with the nets and half-busy listening to Jesus. He was probably discouraged by the turnout of their fishing trip the night before. He did his best, as he usually would, but caught nothing. Then, here comes Jesus, giving him instructions. Telling him to go a little deeper and instructing him to cast his nets to catch fish! They did not catch any at night, how much more during the day? It does not make sense at all, and Peter somehow voiced out his doubt. Nevertheless, he obeyed.

God was not hindered by Peter’s doubt. He will do as He pleases, as He sees fit, whether we fully believe or not. His faithfulness is not based on who we are, but on who He is. He knows that at times, our faith needs a boost.

Peter obeyed even if he was not sure whether something would happen or not. As he listened to Jesus, he saw His authority, and that moved him. He acknowledged Jesus as “Master” and did as he was told. His obedience, albeit with apprehension, resulted in a great catch.

We are all like Peter at times. We believe in God, yet circumstances make us doubt. It is often difficult for us to see how God could deliver us when all evidence proves it can’t be done. We can only thank God that He does not hold our doubts against us. He does not let our doubts hinder Him, lest we never experience His deliverance and blessings.

What is God telling you to do today that you doubt is necessary? How will you show that you trust Him, even if you do not completely understand what He is doing?

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you that Your goodness is not dependent on my faithfulness. Please help me to obey all that You say, trusting that You always know what is best.

If this short Christian devotional blessed you, explore our ebooks on the attributes of God and the effects of sin. Get them here!