Getting What You Want

At one time all these things were important to me. But now I think those things are worth nothing because of Christ.

Philippians 3:7 ICB

Have you ever thought your life would be better if you just had one thing? I have dreamed that a bigger house, a different job, a changing family situation, or more time would make me happy.

I am guessing Peter and Andrew had similar thoughts about a big catch one day. Can you imagine their conversations? “Maybe today is the day we will get the big haul.” “What will you buy with your share of the profits?” “We will have the biggest fishing business in the Galilee.”

But it would not be that night. They had done their best. They worked all night to no avail.

As daybreak arrived, Peter and Andrew washed their nets. Jesus climbed into Peter’s boat and asked him to go out a little. Then Jesus sat down and taught the people gathering on the shore.

According to other verses in the Bible, Peter and Andrew probably knew who Jesus was. He had been causing quite a stir in the surrounding villages. They certainly got front row seating to hear Jesus teach.

It seems Peter and Andrew were greatly impacted. Although doubtful, they obeyed when Jesus told them to go out again for a catch. As a result, they caught so many fish that the nets began to break (Luke 5:7 ICB).

Another boat came to help. Both boats were so full they were almost sinking. Peter and Andrew had finally gotten what they hoped to get all their lives. They would be set financially. Did they buy new houses or bigger boats or fancy clothes?

After being with Jesus, these things did not seem important anymore. When the men brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed Jesus (Luke 5:11 ICB). Their perspective changed. They found all they had been looking for in Jesus.

Jesus, help us remember that, compared to knowing You, all those things are worthless trash (Philippians 3:8 ICB).

Terri Vardeman