I went fishing this morning.  I go every day to the sea and cast out a line.  My hooks do not have barbs nor sharp angles.  I cast out fish food and reel back to reload.

I have not caught a fish from this Sea in all my life.  But I make it my purpose to feed them for the Lord of the Sea.  Let them prosper while He whispers hope and life to them.  Let their bellies become full so that their eyes will see clearly.  There are larger fish they must avoid.  I desire them to be agile.

“Come near the shore!  There’s plenty to eat.  I feel the tug as you devour what is cast for your benefit.  But your eating is hidden from me.

I do what I am called to do.  There will be no pride in this feeding.  Those who fish with barbs eat what they catch.  They laugh at me because I make no profit from my efforts.  But they do not understand.

Let my ears cease their hearing.  Let their laughter fall on stones.  My heart is filled with a purpose.  Let the Lord gain what is rightfully His.

By His Grace.

Be an agent of division.  Do not divide to cause trouble.  But divide between truth and lies.  He is willing to give wisdom to any who ask.  But do not think that what He gives will soften your relationships in this world.

They hated Him without reason.  Do we think to gain from Him and not encounter the same?  If we speak and act according to “The Way” we will cause a division.  It is appropriate and not shameful at all.

We learn our trade among men so that we might be useful and provide for those we love.  We coach others as they also enter into service.  We encourage and exhort with all due wisdom and opportunity

Then the moment appears to become employed by another trade; eternity.

Are you busy studying and practicing your next trade?  Are you preparing to serve for eternity?  Will your life be filled with items and speech that will encourage another toward that ability?

Those who fear men will not speak of what is sure to come.  Their tongue will cower behind closed lips.  But those who learn to love God will find their tongue loosed.  Preparation will dominate their days.  A legacy will pile up concerning the nature of life in eternity.  There will be a testimony that says, “Come this way.”

Be fair to those you love.  Be honest and bold.  Do not restrain learning.  Our new employer will demand from us an accounting of our learning.  And it comes upon all to confess.

Do you know what I’m saying here?  Have you a heart to understand?

By His Grace.