By Andrew Williams
“One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, ‘Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!’ And they left their nets at once and followed him.” – Matthew 4:18-20 (NLT)
Good morning fellow disciples
In this passage, we see the calling of Simon Peter and his brother Andrew. These men were ordinary fishermen, busy with their daily work, when Jesus interrupted their routine and gave them a profound invitation: “Come, follow me.” Jesus didn’t call them because of their qualifications or religious background. Instead, He called them because He saw their potential to become something greater—fishers of people, spreading His message of hope and salvation.
What’s remarkable is their response. They didn’t hesitate, question, or delay. Scripture tells us they “left their nets at once and followed him.” Their nets symbolized their livelihood, security, and identity. Yet, when Jesus called, they redirected their focus from their earthly tasks to the eternal purpose He offered. This shows us that discipleship begins with trust and obedience—letting go of what holds us back and stepping into the unknown to follow Jesus.
Peter and Andrew’s example reminds us that God often calls us in the middle of our ordinary lives. We may feel unprepared or unworthy, but Jesus doesn’t look for perfection—He looks for willingness. Like these fishermen, we are invited to redirect our focus, leaving behind anything that keeps us tethered to the ordinary, so we can step into the extraordinary purpose God has for us.
You may feel like your daily routine is mundane or that your past disqualifies you, but Jesus sees who you can become through Him. He calls you to follow Him, not because of who you are right now, but because of who He will shape you to be. Trust Him, and allow Him to use your life for His glory.
Today, take time to reflect on your own “nets”—the things that might be keeping your focus on earthly concerns rather than God’s purposes. Is it your career, your comfort zone, or your fears? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify these areas and then commit to redirecting your focus toward following Jesus. Find a tangible way to demonstrate your obedience today—perhaps by spending extra time in prayer, serving someone in need, or sharing your faith with a friend. Like Peter and Andrew, take a step of faith and trust in Jesus’ call on your life.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to follow You, just as You called Peter and Andrew. I confess there are times when I cling too tightly to my own “nets,” relying on my own plans and comfort instead of fully trusting You. Lord, help me to redirect my focus from the temporary to the eternal. Give me the courage to let go of what holds me back and to follow You with my whole heart. Shape me into the disciple You want me to be, and use my life to bring others closer to You. I commit to walking in obedience and trust, knowing that You are faithful to lead me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Powerful.message to start the new year.
Help us Lord. Amen.