Devote #44

As I read my Bible this morning, it dawned on me that many people, maybe even you, are dissatisfied with life, because we’re doing the wrong things in life.

I mean, we have a job, but the reason we have a job is to be able to pay our bills. Many people don’t even like their jobs, but they do them anyway, because it puts food on the table and allows them to go on vacations and enjoy some pleasures in life.

But, I’m wondering if all of that is stinkin thinkin? What if we put our heads and hearts and hands in motion to do that which we were gifted at and were called to do to walk out this life, instead of what the world says we should be doing. Here’s why I say that?

In Mark 1 we read of the beginning of Jesus ministry. As He’s walking along, he sees two brothers in the their boat, casting their nets into the water, fishing. I get the impression they weren’t very good fisherman. Maybe they were really poor net casters, or their nets were always empty, which we know happened later. Never-the-less, Jesus tells them to leave their nets and to come follow Him, because…
“I will teach you how to bring in people instead of fish.” Mark 1:17 CEV

Then, as He continues to walk along, He sees two more brothers, who are fishermen, but they as well are not very good fishermen because instead of fishing, they were…
“Mending their nets.” Mark 1:19 CEV

Now at first, that might not seem like a big deal because it would have been common for the nets to catch on sharp rocks and tear. But them mending their nets was something they should have handled at a different time rather than when they had the opportunity to fish.

Jesus asked them to come with Him, and they left everything – even their father still standing in the boat. I really believe they were looking for a way out of fishing, they just didn’t know what they should do with their life. All four of these men would never be the same once they started following Jesus.

Jesus, on the other hand, knew exactly what He was supposed to be doing and even though had many opportunities to get world fame, prestige, recognition, he turned it all down. This is what He did…
“… Jesus got up and went to a place where He could be alone and pray.” Mark 1:35 CEV

Jesus knew what He was supposed to be doing! He then told these four men that He wanted to go to the nearby towns and tell everyone the Good News of salvation and He said…
“This is why I have come.” Mark 1:38 CEV

Here’s my word of encouragement for you today: Maybe today you’re dissatisfied with life. If you are… First, get alone with God and pray. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these other things will be given to you. Then when He tells you what to do – do it. Get out of your boat!

Father,
Help me trust me You at all times and for everything. In Jesus name, Amen.  

Rev. Dr. MM Marxhausen