Luke 5:1-11

This narrative is rich and gives us insight into how Peter paved the way to the first two miracles he experienced (that of provision and salvation). Though many others followed, yet this narrative contains the gateway into these series of miracles. If we also follow the principles, we will experience tremendous miracles in our lives. Peter and his colleagues were washing their nets after a fruitless fishing outing. Though sad and dejected, he laid out his time, talent (rowing skill) and treasure (ship) to serve the Saviour.

Even in his need, he reached out a helping hand, had a hearing ear and a listening heart. He could still stay awake to hear a sermon after a whole night’s labour!

REQUEST FOR THE SHIP

Luke 5:1-3; 1 Samuel. 30:1-19; 1:12-20; John 4:6-15; 21:4, 5; 1 Samuel. 25:1-11, 21, 38; Genesis. 18:1-15; 2 Kings 4:8-37; 1 Kings 17:8-24; Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-44; Galatians. 6:10.

Peter must have been very tired, discouraged and anxious after a fruitless night’s toil. However he was still courteous and helpful to the Saviour in loaning Him his ship and also manning it. David in his sorrow still reached a helping hand to the dying. Hannah still possessed a gracious language even in her dripping sorrow and heartache. Nabal’s vile language and cruelty spelt his doom. Abraham was generous hearted despite that the promised son was yet to be born. The Shunamite woman showed kindness despite her enduring sorrow. In every case (except Nabal), their kindness paved the way for a miracle. Even in problems, lend a helping hand to the needy, show kindness. Peter’s kindness paved the way to his first miracle. Go and do thou likewise.

REWARD FROM THE SAVIOUR

Luke 5:4-7; 1 Samuel. 30:19; 1:20; John 4:29; 21:6; Genesis .18:14; 21:1-3; 2 Kings 4:17, 36, 37; 1 Kings 17:15, 16, 22-24; John 11:44; 1 Corinthians. 15:58; Hebrews. 6:10.

When you go to work for the Saviour, you cannot go unrewarded. "He that waters shall be watered also" (Pro. 11:25). If we shut our bowels of compassion from the needy the Lord will also not bless us (Pro. 21:13; Ja. 2:15, 16; 1 John 3:16-18). The Saviour’s miraculous provision followed Peter’s free-will offering of his ship for the Saviour’s service. The Saviour’s blessing will follow us when we labour in His vineyard, faithfully give our tithes and offering, reach a helping hand to the needy and lost.

RESPONSE OF THE SINNER

Luke 5:8-11; John 1:12, 13; 3:1-7, 16-18; 5:39; 6:68, 69; 8:12, 30-32; 9:35-38; 5:13, 14; 8:11; 1 John 1:6-9; Luke 18:13; Romans. 5:1-8; 8:1; 10:9, 10.

The Saviour blesses us despite our sinfulness. However the miracle obtained by grace can only be kept by obedience to His word. "Repent ye therefore and believe the gospel" is His message to us (Mark 1:15). Repentance is a complete turn away from the paths of sin. When this is followed by faith in the atoning blood, the sinner will be saved. Are you a child of God indeed? (2 Corinthians. 13:5.)

Sinners may sometimes enjoy the crumbs of comfort,

the loaves of life are the saint’s inheritance