HILLSIDE HELPS: “ And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.” (Matt. 4:18-20) When Jesus calls, we must be willing to set aside any and everything that would keep us from following and serving Him. This is what he requires of those whom He calls. While Peter and Andrew were “casting a net into the sea,” Jesus came up and called out to them, or more precisely, called them out. This was more than a simple invitation that was offered. These words had been in the heart of the Father for all of eternity. The plan of God was communicated to them in basically two words, “follow me”. How would one be expected to follow a stranger, for which no resume or recommendation existed, unless of course the One calling was God Himself in the flesh. The call was simple and clear. There was no hidden agenda. The job description was summarized in seven words, “I will make you fishers of men.” Hard working successful fishermen would never have dreamed of changing careers in an instant. This is all they had ever known. Their jobs were secure. Their business sustained there daily needs. Now, the call comes and without having any discussion, they “straightway left their nets, and followed him.” How do you explain that? If you were an accountant you would say, “What about the loss of revenue?” If you were a wife, you would think, “Have you lost your mind?” If you were another fisherman you would think, “Good riddance, less competition.” If you were a family member you might have said, “There he goes off on another wild goose chase.” The fact that Peter and Andrew left their nets tells the truth about God’s calling. His call comes with the power of Grace and Faith. With suddenness, the dead soul is raised to believe in the One calling. All else is set aside and becomes secondary. The will to stay is transformed into to the will to go. The desire to do one’s own will is consumed with a new desire to do the will of the One who called. Nets are dropped and a cross is taken up. The promises of the One calling overshadow the shallow promises of men. Today, if God has called, answer. Leave the nets of this world that have entangled you. Follow Jesus wherever he leads you. Don’t be concerned what others think. (Bro Jerry) PLEASE SHARE
Posted on: Mon, 29 Jul 2013 12:08:14 +0000
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