To launch means to move something far down, to move away from something or to move into something.

In the ocean, many people want to remain on the shore sunbathing; but true riches (Blue Economy) are in the deep waters. A fisherman who stays on the sea shore has nothing to show.

Launching into the deep means to have the right machines/equipment and a commitment.

Luke 5:1-11

v2 Jesus saw two empty boats and wanted to use them to teach the people. (He uses what is available). He chose the one belonging to Simon Peter (Peter did not complain but willingly allowed Jesus to use his boat).

The disciples were not idle when Jesus called them, but they were busy preparing their nets for another attempt, though the past night they had not succeeded in their mission(Jesus calls those who are occupied and have faith). Wash your heart of any mud, mend broken areas and be ready for Christ.

v3 They were willing to cooperate with Jesus.

v4 Jesus does not use and dump, but rewards them for their obedience. Now they were going to have a catch.

v5 Though the previous night they had caught nothing after trying their best – they were willing to LAUNCH THEIR NETS INTO THE DEEP BECAUSE JESUS SAID SO. Much human effort cannot change or save anyone, ONLY Jesus can.

***Leave the shore of sin, lukewarmness, average faith, complaining and surrender to God, aim for excellence, and thank God for all what happens in your life. Leave the shore of dryness and swim into the DEEP things of God (Ezekiel 47, Jeremiah 33:3, Philippians 3:10 12-14, 2 Corinthians 12:2-4).

Let everything that happens in your life Glorify God (John 9:1-3) – As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. ² “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?” ³ “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.

v7 Shows the power of team work, the owners of all the boats were willing to cooperate and now both boats were filled. The blessing of one became the blessing of ALL.

v8 When we obey, God’s power s displayed and we get a revelation of how unworthy we are and how worthy of our worship he is. Peter fell at Jesus knees after seeing how unworthy he was, YET Jesus chose him.

v10 Jesus told him not to be AFRAID. He gave them the work of being fishers of men.

***The left everything and followed Jesus. Everything else loses meaning when we encounter Jesus, and working for him is what matters. ***

When we go deep in our devotion, God MUST act in reception of worship. There is a level of leaving everything that touches the Heart of God.

• 1 Kings 3:4-5 – Solomon chose the best ALTAR at Gideon and sacrificed a thousand burnt offerings – 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10…….100….200…..up to 1000. This touched God and God said to him “Ask for whatever you want me to give you“
• Acts 10:1-4 – Shows Cornelius together with his household they were devout and God-fearing. He was giving generously to those in need and prayed regularly. v4 The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God“