April 17, 2013 (1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “And they left their nets at once and followed Him.” Matthew 4:20 NLT
Observation: Jesus began His ministry by recruiting fellow workers for His kingdom. He needed men that were willing to give up all they had to follow Him. Peter and Andrew were brothers that did just that. When Jesus saw them throwing their nets into the water trying to catch fish He offered to make them fishers of men. They left their nets at once and followed Him! They didn’t think about it. They didn’t have to check their bank account. They didn’t even have to get permission from their wives! They forsook their career at once and followed Jesus. That day was the beginning of a wonderful journey God would take Peter and Andrew on. They made the most of their journey and did indeed become fishers of men.
Application: When Jesus called Peter and Andrew to be His followers He wanted them, not what they had. Jesus didn’t ask them how much money they had or how much wealth they had accumulated by their fishing business. Jesus did not desire them to be His followers for what worldly goods they could bring to His ministry. He wanted them, not their possessions. These are the same type followers Jesus seeks today, men and women willing to give to Christ their lives. Forsaking all and following Jesus with complete trust and assurance at once. Peter and Andrew were fishermen, and when they placed their faith in Christ they became fishers of men.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for calling out to me, saying “follow me”. My life is Yours; use it to bring glory to the God of heaven. Help me surrender all to You and walk daily following Your direction. When You call to me may I be willing to forsake all at once just as Peter and Andrew did, in Jesus name, Amen!