“A journey to deep connection with Jesus begins with humble submission. It requires an acknowledgment that your way isn’t working. Admitting this to yourself is hard enough. Read this out loud: My way isn’t working. . . . Honestly look around and ask yourself, If my way was working, wouldn’t it have worked by now?“- Kyle Idleman
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.”- John 15:1 (NIV)
Kyle Idleman concludes Chapter 2 of When Your Way Isn’t Working as he stresses this fact about our journey through the four emotions of discouragement, fatigue, frustration, and anxiety. Above all, that journey requires a self-awareness that is impossible without humility.
Therefore, connection with Jesus begins when we recognize the reality and consequences of our disconnection. And we’re willing to do something to change.
However, Kyle underscores, Jesus gives Peter no reasons or explanation for His request. In addition, Peter receives no guarantees. Yet, the author notes, that’s how most of us want the story to go. Hence, Pastor Idleman reiterates:
“There are no specific guarantees given, but for Peter the difference between staying up all night without catching anything and then going out and trying again is that this time Jesus is in his boat. Peter was about to have a front row seat to discover that, more than his efforts and expertise, it was his connection to Jesus that would lead to production. Let me repeat that: it’s connection to Jesus that leads to production.”
Most significantly, Kyle counsels, Jesus knows more than your think. Furthermore, Jesus knows more about you than you do. Therefore, commit to humble submission as you restart your journey with Jesus. Because that’s where connection begins. With Jesus you don’t have to stay the same. And, most of all, this time doesn’t have to be like the last time!
Today’s question: What circumstances make humble submission hard for you? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Right response: because you say so”