Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 20, 2015
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. John 21:7
When I recognize the Lord’s presence and His work around me—I rejoice and rest. When I lose perspective and forget the Lord’s loving presence—I fret and fear. Yet, every day the rays of my Lord’s righteousness seek to shine through the mist of my mental mind games. Just recently, I was encouraged by a friend’s comfort, but I was disappointed when he offered me no help out of my stressful situation. But when I took a step back and reflected on our conversation, I felt the love of Christ in my friend’s words. When I can’t see God, love reminds me how He is at work.
John recognized the loving tone of his Lord’s words. He remembered the call of the one who had told them to leave their nets—who now instructed them to cast their nets. The disciples were expert fisherman, however in their experienced position they especially needed their Savior’s support. John saw the Lord Jesus at work in their work. The disciple who was loved by the Lord was able to grasp His will, because he looked for Jesus with eyes of faith and love. Love for the Lord expects His best. When God’s love descends into our hearts—our trust ascends to Him.
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life” (Psalm 143:8).
Do you recognize the Lord at work around you? How is He instructing you to do your work differently? Good perspective comes when you are loved by your good God. The Lord’s love is your confident compass. His love will not lead you anywhere His love cannot sustain you. So, look for His love in the love of your family and friends. Your heavenly Father wants to love you through your situation. His love removes scales from your sight, so you see with eyes of faith. Like the disciple whom Jesus loved (John), look for His love in all the right places. Love sees!
Make sure disbelief has not blinded you to what God is up to in your work. Look for His better ideas in the most unlikely places. Maybe you stop doing a good project for a better one. Adjust an efficient process, so it might become much more effective. Let go of control and watch Christ go to great lengths to lead you around the land mines of uncertainty that threaten to destroy your hard work. Those who recognize the Lord’s work around them are not afraid to try new things. God blesses work that blesses others. Indeed, do what Jesus says and watch Him fill your nets.
“Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn” (John 21:10-11).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I receive Your great love so I might recognize Your great work around me.
Related Readings: Nehemiah 9:32; Psalm 32:10, 52:8; 1 Corinthians 2:9; 1 John 3:1, 17
Post/Tweet this today: God blesses work that blesses others. #recognizetheLord #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 5 minute music video- Gaither’s: Love Lifted Me
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