Today’s devotion is from John 21:15-18
After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these fish?” (Do you love me more than you love your career as a fisherman?) “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
Peter went back to being a fisherman and was disillusioned and feeling condemned and disqualified to preach the gospel because he betrayed Jesus. Jesus asks him, “Peter, do you love me more than you love your career?” Peter said, “yes Lord…” then the Lord said, “then get back into the ministry!” Ministry is all about loving Jesus. Ministry is how we demonstrate our love for Jesus, and ministry to others is pouring our love to Jesus!
Jesus said, when you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto Me! Every believer is called to be a minister and a witness, but some love their careers more than they love Jesus. Nobody is talking about giving up your career, but the real question is, do we love our careers, our families and the rest of the things that we prioritize more than Jesus and at the expense of ministry?
When you prioritize ministry to others, you are prioritizing the kingdom of God and you are demonstrating your love for Jesus. Prioritizing Jesus will not result in neglect of other things like family, friends and career, as you prioritize Jesus by loving and ministering to His sheep, He will supernaturally open doors for a strong, unshakable marriage, a rich fulfilling family life, a prosperous career and thriving friendships.
Make it your priority to feed and to take care of Jesus’ sheep and in so doing, know that you are pouring out your love for Jesus in the greatest way possible!
