PROVISION FOR PARTNERS
- Dr. Paul Dhinakaran
A certain man in the Bible gave to God and received God’s blessings in abundance. He is none other than Simon whom Jesus Christ called as Peter. You read about the incident of Jesus meeting Peter for the first time in Luke 5:3-5.
Earlier, Simon – a fisherman by profession, had nothing to do with God. Early one morning he kept washing his net. Jesus Christ came to him and asked, “Simon! Give Me your boat. I would like to preach the word of God from your boat to the multitude.” Simon pushing the boat into the waters gladly offered his boat to Jesus saying, “Please use this boat to proclaim God’s word.” Lord Jesus Christ used the boat of Simon to preach the Word of God. He blessed the people and then came to meet Simon again.
Simon did not disclose anything about his problems to Jesus Christ. However, Jesus Christ looked deep into the heart of Simon. Dear Friend! For every small effort that you take in establishing the kingdom of God, He will surely reward you. He is a rewarding God.
From a look at Simon, he immediately knew that Simon had caught no fish having toiled all night. His heart was broken but he never shared his problem with God. Jesus knew that having nothing in Simon’s hand to offer, he still gave his empty boat for God to do the ministry. Perhaps you are sowing into God’s ministry amidst your financial crisis or poverty. Peter never told to Jesus, “You see! I have caught nothing myself. Please get the boat of someone else for Your purpose.” On the contrary, concealing his sufferings, he gladly gave his boat to the Lord Jesus Christ. Similarly, unmindful of your problems, you have partnered with the Jesus Calls Ministry by continuing to contribute your offerings with a sense of sacrifice. God will surely reward you for your faithfulness.
Jesus Christ wanted to do something for Peter. He looked at him and said, “Peter! Launch your boat into the deep and cast your net on the other side.” Normally fishermen would go fishing at night. On the contrary, Jesus Christ sends him to catch fish at daytime. When you are experiencing the most adverse of situations, it is exactly at that moment Jesus Christ steps into your life and performs a miracle for you. Be of good cheer! (Exodus 23:25).
In another incident Jesus went to the house of Simon Peter whereas he was outside on some errand. You must understand that you may be away from your house trying to provide for your family but Jesus Christ is there watching over your family and will take care of the needs of your family because you are His partner.
Jesus Christ told Peter, “Satan sought permission to sift you as wheat” (Luke 22:31). Further He told, “Don’t worry! I have prayed for you that your faith will not fail you.” That is why when Peter denied Jesus Christ he was under the temptation brought about by Satan but the prayer offered by Jesus saved him. He wept, repented and came back to Jesus Christ.
On the other hand, Judas although a disciple of Jesus Christ he never gave a penny to Jesus but took money from Him. Judas never was His partner. Ultimately he gave no room for Jesus Christ to offer prayers for him. His end was the most pathetic because Satan got hold of him and he committed suicide. Those who offer whatever they have to God are blessed people. Satan cannot touch such people. It is blessed to give than to receive. Jesus Christ is offering prayers for those who are His partners and their dear ones (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). Just as how God blessed Simon, surely He will bless you abundantly and make you happy. Be of good cheer.
Prayer:
Loving Lord Jesus,
The cares of this world have made me weak but I praise and thank You for Your amazing love. Forgive me for having been unfaithful to You. From this day, You alone are my strength, shield, song and salvation. Help me soar high like an eagle in all aspects of life. Let my soul always prosper drawing strength from You.
Amen.
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