Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 18, 2015
Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. John 21:4-5
Success is often preceded by disappointment and failure. What worked last year may or may not work this year. I employ old methods—and one day realize—they have lost their energy and momentum. I test new ideas only to discover they are ineffective or average at best in their results. Thus, the steps to success can be tedious and laborious. I am learning to stay faithful to the process and pray for ways to get better. Hard work does not mean I have missed God’s best. Difficulty may be His way to test my motives and faith. Jesus is engaged in my laborious work.
After a night of intense labor with nothing to show for their sweat—the disciples were tired, hungry and discouraged. But as the sun rose, the Son called out from the shore with a concerned voice. The fishermen did not know it was the Lord’s words directing them to do something different—but they still acted. They were teachable—and somewhat desperate to try a new idea. Because they were obedient with the ordinary—God blessed them with the extraordinary. Laborious work is the Lord’s way to get our attention. Exhaustion is an opportunity to hear God.
“Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:5).
Perhaps you are beyond exhausted at work. You are tired of office politics. You are tired of the unnecessary drama around those starved for attention. You are tired of the bureaucracy required to make simple decisions. You are tired of limited money, resources or relationships necessary to ensure excellence in your project management. You are tired of team members who say no without offering any alternatives. Work’s laborious nature has become overwhelming. Unless you see change soon—you may be moving on. But hang on—first hear Christ’s voice.
Before you go, ask, “What does the Lord want me to learn in this difficult work environment?” Perhaps it’s not allowing the approval of people to paralyze you from trying new initiatives. Test your ideas with a low cost probe. If it shows promise, proceed. If it’s not the right timing, cut your loses and move on to more innovative thinking. The inertia of current realities calls for the midwife of ingenuity to help birth new ideas. Ask the Holy Spirit to prompt your imagination with creative solutions. Persevere in the process and expect Jesus to show you a breakthrough.
“He [Jesus] said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish” (John 21:6).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me the patience to persevere under stressful work conditions.
Related Readings: Genesis 3:19, 5:29; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Colossians 1:10, 3:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; James 5:4
Post/Tweet this today: When we are obedient with the ordinary—God may bless us with the extraordinary. #laboriouswork #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Gaither’s: Lord Help Me
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