Day 6: The Things We Leave Behind

Scripture:
Matthew 4:19 (KJV) — “And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Devotional:
Leaving everything behind at God’s call is part of the spiritual life. We see this pattern throughout the Gospels. When Jesus called His first disciples, they were standing at the shoreline, fishing. This was a trade they had practiced for a long time — a job that provided for their families and met the needs of their community. As fishermen, they knew what they were doing. They likely felt some level of competence and contentment. They knew what the next day was going to look like.

Then Jesus showed up. And at His simple invitation, “Follow me,” they left everything behind. Without asking questions, they walked away from what was familiar, steady, and secure.

Why on earth would they have said yes to someone they had only just met? Luke helps us see what happened the night before: an encounter with Jesus that shifted everything. Their yes was not blind — it was a response to the One who had just shown His power in a way they could not deny.

Abandoning everything to God sounds simple when we read it on the page. But in real life, it can feel complicated. Trusting God’s leading doesn’t mean knowing the path ahead — it means trusting the One who goes with you. To find yourself in Him is to discover that even when the details are uncertain, His presence is sure.

Reflection Question:
What “nets” — familiar roles, routines, or securities — might God be asking you to leave behind so that you can step more fully into who He has called you to be?

Prayer:
Lord, give me courage to trust Your call, even when it asks me to leave behind what feels safe. Help me let go of what I know so that I can step into the life and identity You have prepared for me.