John 21 - Abundance

This chapter begins with a simple story of God's extravagant love for us. The disciples had been fishing all night without any luck. This is how we often feel when we try and try to meet up to the expectations of others or what we believe is God's expectation of our behavior. Under our own power, we just can't do it.

John 21:6 He said, "Throw the net off the right side of the boat and see what happens."

They did what he said. All of a sudden there were so many fish in it, they weren't strong enough to pull it in.

But when we call on Him and allow Him to lavish us with His love, he gives us a full net -- if only we will fish on the other side of the boat.

When He talks to us, He often asks us to do things that are the polar opposite of our nature. But in doing those things --- we receive His gift of abundance.

Matthew 5:3 "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.

4 "You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

5"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.

6 "You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.

7 "You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.

8 "You're blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.

9 "You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.

10 "You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom.

11-12 "Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.

Today I pray that you will listen to His Word in your heart -- fish off the other side of your normal boat. And just simply say "BRING IT ON LORD"! Accept His abundance, His extravagant love.

Chicke Fitzgerald