When I was young, we would “go swimming” at the local park in the neighborhood. I loved the water, but I couldn’t swim. The way the older boys resolved my dilemma, and deepened my anxiety, was to throw me into the deep water and laugh as I did my best I’m not drowning imitation. But, one boy taught me all that I needed to know about being in deep-water. 1) It’s not any different than shallow water, just deeper, 2) you have to trust your survival instincts in deep water, 3) You can make it in deep water if you don’t panic, and 4) Big fish don’t swim in shallow water. I also discovered a personal lesson from my deep-water experience that has lasted throughout my lifetime. “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” (Friedrich Nietzsche)

Jesus had a deep-water blessing for the men who were willing to trust Him, even though they had been fishing all night and caught nothing. Sometimes it’s the unexpected circumstances, the situations we don’t want to go through that teach us the best lessons. Consequentially, it is the nevertheless faith declaration made by Peter that enables the men to see the power of Jesus’s Word, experience a net-breaking reward, and have their lives transformed. All this for being faithful, obedient, and trusting God. Sometimes we will find ourselves in some fearful and anxious deep-water places. If you are willing to follow God’s Word, even when it doesn’t make sense; don’t panic because God is about to perform an awesome action in your life.

Thank you, Jesus, for taking the time today to show me that I can make it in life’s deep waters. I will not be anxious, fearful, or doubtful, because I trust your Word.

Shalom

Pastor Smith