The fishermen were all amazed at the many fish they caught. When Simon Peter saw this, he bowed down before Jesus and said, "Go away from me, Lord. I am a sinful man!" James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were amazed too. (James and John worked together with Simon.) Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid. From now on you will work to gather people, {not fish}!" The men brought their boats to the shore. They left everything and followed Jesus.
— Luke 5:8-11 NLT
Key Thought
Nothing prepares the way for the Messiah's work better than humility. We saw that principle clearly demonstrated in the life of John the Baptist. In this encounter, we see humility demonstrated from an unlikely source, Simon Peter. However, Peter recognized he was in the presence of greatness when he was in the presence of Jesus. Compared to Jesus, Peter knew he didn't come close to measuring up even on his best day. He was a sinner. He was limited. He experienced failures. He kept having his closed mind blown open by something done by someone far greater. To his credit, Peter was honest with himself when comparing himself to Jesus. Throughout his long ministry, Peter would have to learn the lesson time and time again; he was most valuable to the Master when he served out of a genuine humility.
Today's Prayer
Father, humble me gently and help me correctly evaluate myself in light of Jesus' glory, grace, and character. I am a sinner. I am thankful, dear Father, that you have saved this sinner by your grace and have given me a place to serve you. Please forgive, repair, and equip me for your service. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
- 1 Timothy 1:15-17
- Romans 5:6-11
- 1 Peter 5:5-7
About This Devotional
What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.
What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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