Encouragement for the Discouraged
By E. Hilliard
EVEN the apostle Peter became discouraged, and said, "I go a fishing." Six of the other disciples decided to accompany him. Although Peter had seen Jesus twice after His resurrection, he became disheartened in the work of his apostleship, and returned to his former occupation for a living. He and his companions toiled all night and caught nothing. In the morning they were thoroughly downhearted. Jesus knew it, and He could not leave them thus, for they were to be the light of the world to the close of time. Through the approaching twilight, those weary fishermen discovered the outlines of a man upon the shore. Presently a clear, sweet voice sounded over the waters, "Children, have ye any meat?" In despondent tones the answer came, "No." Again the voice from the shore sounded out on the still morning air, "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find." They did so, and "they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes." Where now is their discouragement? Peter became so elated that he plunged into the sea and swam to the shore to meet his Saviour. Jesus did not leave His discouraged workers to their darkness and sorrow of heart. Precious Saviour! He is just as willing to encourage you and me, dear reader, as He was to cheer up Peter and those who accompanied him on his unsuccessful fishing tour. The discouraged man is likely to think that Jesus condemns him and leaves him to his sorrow and despair. But He who cheered the hearts of the Galilean fishermen, and sent an angel twice to feed the discouraged Elijah, will surely send His angels, when needed, to assist us. In our shadowy hours, let us look beyond and behold the Man of Galilee beckoning us to follow Him through evil as well as good report. With our hearts full of gratitude for the bountiful blessings of Heaven, let us be of good cheer under all circumstances.