Today’s devotion comes from John 21:1-14. Here is a link to this Scripture – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+21&version=NASB
I quote only the following verses.
“But when the day was now breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. So Jesus *said to them, “Children, you do not have any fish, do you?” They answered Him, “No.” And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch.” So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish.
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So when they got out on the land, they *saw a charcoal fire already laid and fish placed on it, and bread. Jesus *said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.” Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.
Jesus *said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples ventured to question Him, “Who are You?” knowing that it was the Lord. Jesus *came and *took the bread and *gave it to them, and the fish likewise.” John 21:4-6 and 9-13.
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Today’s Scripture leads us to meditate on God’s providence. We will focus on God providing presence, prompting, productivity, and preparation.
The disciples did not at first recognize Jesus on the beach, but He was present. In our time of need, we too often do not recognize God’s presence, but He is also present.
“… “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,” Hebrews 13:5.
Jesus prompted the disciples: “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch.” In our time of need, if we knew what to do, we would do it. But, we do not know what to do, and God prompts us what to do.
“For such is God,
Our God forever and ever;
He will guide us until death.” Psalm 48:14.
Jesus caused the action of the disciples to be productive: “Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three”. God also causes the action (which He prompts us to do) to be productive.
“I, even I, have spoken; indeed I have called him,
I have brought him, and He will make his ways successful.” Isaiah 48:15.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28.
It would have been much more than sufficient for Jesus to “only” cause the net to be full of large fish, but in addition, Jesus prepared a meal of fish and bread on the beach for the disciples. God also makes many preparations for us that are unnecessary but abundant showing His Fatherly love and lavish care for us.
“5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Psalm 23:5-6.
“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21.
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 