Wind Change
by Jim Person
Growing up as a commercial fisherman I have seen amazing analogies between fishing and our walk with Christ. One such time was when I was a new believer, and had the opportunity to set out my net at the end of the season, on my own. With fishing it’s imperative to get your net in order. It must have all tangles, snares, and holes taken out or repaired, in order to fish properly. On top of that, after setting it out, you need to go back and remove any new tangles or snares that may have occurred. Normally this process is best done with others, but there are times when you have to do it on your own.
On this occasion I was alone. I was told the fishing would be unproductive and a waste of time, as the conditions weren’t right. There were some offshore winds that would keep the fish away from the shore. It reminds me of some other fishermen who laboured all night unproductively. Jesus told them to go and set out the nets again, as He was about to bring new direction to their lives, and was teaching them about trusting in Him.
Even though I’d done everything my father had taught me, and everything was as it should be, nothing was happening; no fish entered my net. But I didn’t get discouraged, as it was a beautiful day and my net was in proper order. I chose instead to praise my Father in heaven. As I did, the wind changed and began to blow towards my net, and many fish began to fill the net.
You see, I was taught by my earthly father to work hard, and in my own strength I would find what I sought. But that day I learned that, as I was faithful to do my part, God would do His. In my praise and surrender to my heavenly Father, He provided what I needed, by changing the wind’s direction.
Are you struggling to make things happen in your life? Have you laboured in your own strength all night, only to return empty-handed? Then turn to Jesus and worship Him in total surrender, and see Him change the direction of the wind for you!
Prayer: Jesus, I know that I’ve been doing what I thought was right, but didn’t include You in my plans. I repent of this now and ask You to direct me and show me Your plans. Jesus, I worship You in total surrender! Lord, would You build Your kingdom in me, and through me, today? Thank You, my King and Saviour! Amen.
Jim Person Jim grew up in Alaska and from a small child commercial fished every summer with his family. God called him, his wife Tanya, and their four children to move to Hungary as missionaries in 2003. God then led him to join Ellel Ministries in 2005. After serving in various positions with Ellel in Central and Eastern Europe, God led them back to the United States, where he is now serving with the Ellel USA team. Jim and Tanya have a passion to see leaders restored, the church discipled and walking in God’s fullness of life and freedom. They also love mentoring the existing and developing Ellel teams wherever God leads them. Jim also has a real gift for working with the land to create a beautiful and welcoming environment.
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