Fishers of Men (A Short Devotional): A Messy Catch

As we wind up our 5-day short devotional on Luke 5:1-11, we pray that you have been blessed by the journey through spiritual disciplines as we have.

In our Word today, we go back to verse 2 of Luke 5. Peter was called by Jesus to a ministry as a fisher of men, a journey that will be as challenging and “messy” as his job as a fisherman, but worth every ounce of effort, time, and energy if the reward is to be set free from the shackles of sin.

Title: A Messy Catch

Focus Verse: Luke 5:2 NLT He noticed two empty boats at the water’s edge, for the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets.

When Jesus called Peter to be a fisher of men, He knew very well that it would not be easy. There would be many challenges, not just from opposition among those they were reaching out to, but also among those doing the work.

Peter would soon realise that it was not going to be easy. In fact, he would be tested significantly. He would even fail to stand for and with the Lord later on. He would witness and experience clashes of personalities and personal beliefs along the way.

When things seem chaotic, we are easily discouraged. We may even fall into the temptation of thinking we might have received the wrong calling from God. However, we must consider the fishermen. When they caught no fish, they only had to wash their nets, which remained in perfect condition as before they cast them. However, when there is a big haul, the net becomes overstressed and could even break.

We are like the net. As we catch men, the big haul could lead us to stress that may push us to our limits. However, we must keep holding on to each other so that we can bring the catch successfully into the boat. Just hold on until the end because after the work is done, the Great Fisherman will mend us back into perfect shape.

Have you been discouraged by fellow workers for God in ministry? How will the illustration above help you have a change of heart?

Prayer: Dear God, I know that ministry can be heartbreaking at times because it is made up of imperfect people. When I am feeling discouraged, please help me to focus on You and the work You are doing through Your people.

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