The first part of John 21 is a message for our time. The economy not only of our nation but the world continues to spiral downwards with little hope for the rest of this calendar year. Millions of people are unemployed and losing their homes. It is a scary time that can easily fill us with fear for the future. John 21 tells of Jesus’ disciples fishing for an entire night with nothing to show for their labor. Then Jesus told them to cast out their nets one more time. If they had not known Him they would have laughed at the absurdity. They were almost to shore. There would not be anything worthwhile this close to land. However, they knew Jesus and obeyed. Verse 6 reads, “And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.” John goes on to tell us there were 153 big fish. When Jesus tells us to do something He does not reward us with minnows.
Times are very bleak for so many people. We must not fear. God will take care of us. If you have been financially hurt this past year or if you know someone who has been hurt this is the time to trust and to help. Sometimes in our abundance we do not have to exercise faith but when times are filled with financial storm clouds faith becomes a real necessity. It is time to claim the promises. It is time to know if we obey Jesus and trust Him as Lord, He will fill our nets with something big.
Written by Roger Bothwell on March 2, 2009
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org