In Luke 5, at the Lake of Gennesaret, Jesus is teaching to the people from Simon’s boat. After teaching, he instructs Simon to pull out into the deep water to let down his net to catch fish. Simon is discouraged on being able to make a catch. Prior to Jesus teaching, he had been out all night catching nothing. His nets remained empty despite his skill and efforts. Nevertheless, he says to Jesus “But because you say so, I will let down the nets” (Luke 5:5, NIV).
The Challenge of Obedience
Simon spent an entire night fishing without success. As Jesus’ direction, he chose faith over experience. His response reveals the essence of faith. Sometimes you must act not because you understand or agree, but simply because you trust the one giving the direction.
There are two lessons worthy of highlighting in this scripture – the reward of following and sharing in blessings.
Reward of Following
Simon’s obedience led to an unprecedented catch – so abundant that the nets began to break under the weight of the fish. This outcome demonstrates how divine guidance often defies human logic and experience. Divine guidance sees beyond natural sight. This requires having faith. Trusting in God’s ability to exceed your expectations.
The Power of Shared Blessings
One of the most overlooked aspects of this story is what happens next. Simon’s nets are overwhelmed with fish and he does not attempt to keep the entire blessing. He signals to his partners in other boats to come and help, allowing them to share in the abundance. This detail teaches us that sometimes blessings are meant to be shared, creating a ripple effect of provision and joy in your community. It is the evidence that there is not scarcity about abundance. There is enough for everyone.
Application
In life you will face “empty nets”. There will be situations where human effort alone is not sufficient. You will be challenged to remain open to divine guidance, even when it contradicts your experience. To take action being obedient, despite your doubts or past disappointments. Know that breakthroughs often come not from doing more of what you have always done, but from being willing to follow divine direction, even when it doesn’t align with natural inclinations. Have faith and confidence to trust beyond the natural.
