Launch Into the Deep

Text: Luke 5:1-11

Life is full of defining moments that call us to take bold steps—decisions that feel like launching into deep, uncharted waters. Whether it’s choosing to marry, starting a new career, going back to school, or stepping into ministry, these moments require courage and trust beyond human logic. In Luke 5:1–11, Jesus invites Peter to launch into the deep—a moment that transformed his life forever. This story is rich with wisdom for anyone standing at the edge of a major decision, wrestling with past failures, or hoping for a breakthrough.

1. Failure Is Not Always About Skill or Resources

We often think we fail because we lack experience or money. But Scripture reminds us that confidence in the flesh is misplaced:

• Philippians 3:3 – “… we have no confidence in the flesh.”

• Jeremiah 17:5–8 – The arm of flesh will fail.
  

Sometimes, failure is God’s way of preparing us for something greater. I once asked God why I had to serve under people who were, in my opinion, less qualified. His answer? “You trust too much in yourself.” (Ecclesiastes 9:11)

Resources, or the lack thereof, aren’t always the problem either. You may not realize it, but you already own a boat, nets, and a cruise of oil. I’ve seen people with very little rise to greatness, and others with abundance lose it all (Ecclesiastes 10:7). Success isn’t always about what you have, but who’s guiding you.

2. Sometimes Failure Is a Setup for a Divine Appointment

Peter and his friends fished all night and caught nothing—until Jesus stepped into the scene. Their failure wasn’t random; it was a setup for an encounter with the Messiah. God often uses disappointment to bring us to a turning point.

3. When God Chooses You, Your Life Changes

Jesus chose Peter, not the owner of the second boat, whose name we never learn. When God singles you out, it’s a destiny moment.

• Naaman wasn’t the only leper.

• Rahab wasn’t the only harlot.

• Esther wasn’t the only orphan.

• Paul wasn’t the only persecutor.
  

Yet each of them was chosen. Let this be your prayer: “Lord, make me Your choice.”

4. The Law of Harvest: Will You Surrender in the Hard Times?

Peter did three things right, despite his fatigue and failure:

• He spent—he gave Jesus his boat.

• He was spent—he waited patiently while Jesus preached.

• He was patient—he stayed long enough to receive a miracle.
  

When Jesus asked him to launch into the deep, Peter obeyed, even though it defied his experience.

5. The Deep Is the Realm of Faith

The “deep” is where real transformation happens. It’s where faith is tested and rewarded:

• It’s a command (Luke 5:4).

• It’s where great fishermen go.

• It’s where faith works, because you can’t see what you’re fishing for.

• Shallow waters are for survival; the deep is for breakthrough.

• The same tools that failed before can succeed when Jesus is involved.

6. "At Your Word, I Will" — A Statement of Faith

Peter's decision to obey Jesus’ word came after watching Him preach, heal, and deliver people. It’s possible that Peter even experienced salvation during this moment (Luke 5:8–10). His obedience, rooted in faith, opened the door to overwhelming success.

7. When You Partner with the Favoured, You Share in the Blessing

Peter’s partners—James and John—benefited from his obedience. They experienced both a net-breaking catch and a spiritual awakening. When you walk with the favoured, favour rubs off on you.

8. Partial Obedience Limits Blessings

Jesus said, “Let down your nets,” but Peter let down only one net (Luke 5:4–5). Don’t limit what God wants to do in your life by half-hearted obedience.

• Like the widow in 2 Kings 4:1–7, don’t borrow just a few vessels.

• Like the servants in John 2:1–11, fill the waterpots to the brim.

9. Your Destiny Begins With Divine Encounters

Peter's life took a radical turn after this encounter. He left everything and followed Jesus. Real destiny often begins at the end of our own strength, when we surrender to God’s plan.

10. Let Go of the Old to Embrace the New

Peter walked away from fishing—his trade, his identity—to pursue his divine calling. What is God calling you to leave behind?

How Does This Apply to You?

• That man you’ve written off as “not husband material”? He might just be the “deep” God is asking you to launch into.

• That child you’ve given up on? Embrace him. He may carry your legacy.

• When everything else fails, turn to Jesus.

• Big investors go deep. Shallow thinkers play it safe.

• Stop fearing the “what ifs.” What if you actually catch something big?

Launch out. Don’t hold back. Your breakthrough might be waiting in the deep.

Let this be your prayer today: “Lord, help me stop living by sight. Teach me to launch into the deep—by faith.” Amen

Bola Lasisi is a surveyor and geo-information specialist. He serves as a Senior Pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Netherlands Missions. With a deep love for the Word of God, he is passionate about teaching life-transforming principles from Scripture, helping people apply biblical truths to everyday living. Known for his practical and insightful teaching style, Pastor Bola has become a spiritual father to many, guiding both his biological and numerous spiritual children with wisdom and compassion. He is happily married and continues to inspire lives through his ministry and dedication to God’s work. Check out more of Bola's posts here.

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