On The Right Side

 

Picture the scene:

It’s nighttime and seven men are in a boat in the middle of the sea fishing.

These were skilled fishermen, on extremely familiar waters, accustomed to going out and coming back in with a healthy catch but this night was different, the sea yielded nothing.

The fish seemed to have all disappeared. On their way back to shore tired and empty-handed, someone on the beach called out,

“Children, have you caught anything to eat?...Cast your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” – John 21: 5 & 6 (CEB)

Verse 6 continues,

“So they did, and there were so many fish that they couldn’t haul in the net.”

One move, one shift, and everything changed. One instruction, one act of obedience, and everything changed.

How long will you do what you’re accustomed to doing before you realize that it just isn’t working anymore?

When last did you catch anything that has truly fed you? What is sustaining you?

Do you intend to continue throwing out your net on the side that no longer yields any gains?

Beloved, if that is you, then you are searching for fish on the wrong side of the boat. There comes a time when you must realize that a shift is required, that a move is necessary.

You’re feeling drained, you have no energy, it’s like you’re out at sea, weary from all the rowing; the shore is in sight but you’re just not getting anywhere.

For years you’ve been casting your net in the same place, and for several years it worked but now you’re coming in empty-handed. It is time to change position.

Deep down, you know it’s no longer working.

Deep down, you know you’re in need of a new beginning – a fresh start.

You are weary because you’ve been doing life from the wrong side for far too long.

Deep down, you know you’ve heard the call.

Deep down, you know “It’s the Lord!”

Beloved, you’re not far from shore; the Lord Himself has prepared “bread and fish” for you, all you need do is heed His call, be obedient to His instruction and throw your net where He has told you to throw it – on the right side, where there’s a miraculous haul awaiting you.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “On The Right Side” © July 9, 2025