21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: DeeperSample

Surrendering Fears

Key Verse: His partners, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were also amazed. Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!" - ‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭

It was the catch of a lifetime. Literally net breaking and boat sinking! Being a seasoned fisherman, Simon Peter was only too aware that this was no ordinary haul of fish.

Simon was busy giving leadership to the chaotic situation. He was trying to keep the boats from sinking and the nets from breaking whilst calling for his fishing partners to help. Yet in the midst of all the heightened activity, his gaze fell upon Jesus.

He began to sense the absolute power, authority and holiness of Jesus. Suddenly, fear gripped him as he wondered who Jesus really was. Simon’s response was to fall down at Jesus’ feet and say, “Oh Lord, please leave me - I’m such a sinful man” (Luke 5:8).

A divine encounter can be both frightening and life changing at the same time!

Fear can get a hold of us especially when we’re focussed on our own inadequacies and feelings of unworthiness. Fears can paralyse us and stop us from fulfilling the plans of God for our lives.

Jesus' reply to Simon was filled with love, wisdom and assurance. Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!” (Luke 5:10).

Today, don’t be afraid of life’s challenges or the situations you face. When our focus is on ourselves and on our weaknesses, we can easily give in to fear.

When tempted to fear, choose to focus on God and His great love for us instead. Let God’s perfect love cast out all fear (1 John 4:18). Walk instead in the confidence and authority that comes with knowing who we are in God.

Let us go boldly before God and surrender all our fears to the Prince of Peace today (Hebrews 4:16).

Response

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of fears in our lives. Surrender them to the Lord and ask God to replace them with His peace, presence and boldness instead.