Serving God Leads to His Blessing

December 1 2015

In the fifth chapter of Luke, we see in the Scripture where Jesus decides to teach people who had come to hear the word of God. He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret where he saw two ships standing there. The owners of the ship had worked hard all day and were somewhat discouraged because they had not caught anything. As they were washing their nets in disgust and probably thinking about how wasteful the day had been, Jesus entered into Simon's ship and asked him if he would Thrust out just a little from the land. I doubt if this is what Simon wanted to do at this time. More than likely he was exhausted from the day and ready to go home to retire for the evening. It is the same way with many of us. After we have worked all day, all we can think about is fighting the daily traffic to get home to relax.

Even though Simon had his heart set on getting home to relax and prepare for the next day, he offered Jesus no excuses. Obviously he obeyed him because the Bible says that Jesus sat down and talked out of the ship. When it comes to serving God, we should never offer any excuses. Our time should be his time. After all, He owns us. Further, we should be honored to serve God. Just to know that God wants to use us in any way is special. I have found that many times when my plans are interrupted and I am asked to serve God, my strength is renewed. I could have been up for 16 consecutive hours, but I gain new strength to complete the assignment that God has given to me. God will give you the strength and the refreshing you need if your heart is willing to serve Him.

After Jesus had completed his teaching, he wanted to bless Simon for his service and obedience. He told Simon to let down his net for catch. And there was a great blessing of fish within a matter of minutes. What Simon could not achieve in his hours of efforts, Jesus did in no time at all. Not only was Simon blessed, but so were his partners. There was so many fish, that both ships began to sink.

When you have the opportunity to serve God in any capacity, don't turn it down. Look for a way to do what God Himself or one of his Representatives has asked. Always make God your highest priority and he will richly bless you by providing for all of your needs.