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.” “Master,” Simon replied,
“we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear!
Luke 5:4-6
At this point in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus was not new to Simon (Peter). Peter was a follower of Jesus, had witnessed His miracles, and had even seen Jesus instantly restore his sick mother-in-law’s health. He KNEW Jesus’ power because he had seen Jesus’ power! But when Jesus told him how and where to put down his nets, he responded with skepticism. Even though Jesus told him what would happen, Peter only reluctantly obeyed, thinking he knew better than God.
We do that a lot, don’t we? Even when our plans don’t work. Even when our way creates more frustration and stress, we still believe our way is the best way. Peter’s life experience had told him that fish are easier to catch at night. He was basing his belief on what had happened in the past, rather than on Who was right in front of him in the present. And He was done for the night, frustrated, discouraged, and exhausted. But when he obeyed Jesus and let down his nets, he didn’t just witness another miracle—he EXPERIENCED a miracle! Because of his obedience, he learned to trust Jesus’ power more than his own, and His faith grew!
The next time you become frustrated, discouraged, and exhausted trying to accomplish your goals on your own, just stop and look to your Savior right in front of you. He’s telling you to stop focusing on your past experiences, your weaknesses, or your failures, and to focus on Him in the present. Stubbornly believing that you’re in control and have all the answers, will only cause you to miss His greatest blessings. But when you let go of your way and surrender to Jesus, you will experience His power, you will experience His miracles, and He will shower you with blessings. You just need to let down your nets. You are loved!