Out on a Limb

1. REAL FRUIT IS ONLY FOUND OUT ON A LIMB- Luke 5:4

“Playing it Safe” is a very human tendency especially for certain personality types. And, there’s a lot to be said for minimizing risk in a world where too much ventured too soon can hurt everyone on a team. Like a lot of things in my life- I am learning that it’s not a matter choosing one or the other- safety or risk. It’s a matter of choosing when to risk and when to play it safe.  As with most aspects of life with Jesus- it’s all about getting the “nod from God” to go big or stand still.

When I think about this idea of “the nod” it takes me back to my childhood. I am a true middle child, my brother is 18 months older than me and my sister is 18 months younger. And, one thing I remember is people always telling my parents that their children were very well behaved. There was a reason. My dad loved us and he was never abusive in any way but- he demanded respect. All it took when we stepped out of line was one look in our direction and that furrowed brow was enough to strike fear in our hearts.

When we would visit another family at their home, all three of us would line up like ducks in a row on the couch. Even if the family had children, we didn’t get up to play with them until we had sat still for a time. Then my dad would give us the nod that it was o.k. to get off the couch and join the other children.

It’s that nod that Jesus gave to Peter in Luke 5

4Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

5And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

6And when they had this done, they enclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.

7And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

It’s the nod we need to launch out despite the risk. It’s the nod that leads us out on a limb where the fruit is.

Listen for His whisper. Pray for the courage to move out when He speaks clearly and the risk will be worth it- the fruit will be a blessing not only to you  but many in your circle of influence.