When your heart's not in it

“We are going with you also.” They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing. 4But when the morning had now come, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.  5Then Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any food?” They answered Him, “No.” 6And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish."  John 21:3-6   NKJV

When you are tired, depressed and feel let down, the last thing you want to do is work. This, it seems, was the disciples problem when they went out fishing. They spent all night toiling with the sea but, they caught nothing. All this would have done was to add to their misery. When your heart's not in something, even though you may be skilled in a particular area, it doesn't mean that you will be successful. Often, it's a half-hearted attempt to do something but alas, this is not good enough and it mostly comes to nothing.

Jesus' enquiry 'Have you any food?' may have been interpreted by them as. 'Have you any fish to sell?' They would have had their regular customers of course, but they were used to selling extra fish when they had been to sea as this boosted their living. This was perhaps why the gruff, 'No' sounded so rudely.

What Jesus said next could have annoyed them further, 'Cast your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.' One can just imagine the words coming out of Peter's mouth as he heard this. 'Who does this guy think he is? He hasn't any fishing experience' we've been doing this for years mate, we know all of the tricks of the trade.' Nevertheless they did what Jesus had suggested and were overwhelmed by the great amount of fish that they caught.

This highlights three important facts: 

(1) No matter what mood you are in, always do the best you can do. Remember, Jesus' emotions must have been rife prior to the cross, but He still went ahead and did it for us.

(2) Be courteous to people when they ask you questions. What they may have to say may be the answer to what you need to hear. So be thankful.

(3) Listen properly to what people say to you. You may miss an important piece of information.

We all have days when our energy level is low and life events have robbed us of our enthusiasm. But, break throw this barrier and go for gold. You belong to Team Jesus.

If you would like to contact me email grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

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