Subject: "how To Deal With Uncertainty And Change In Life"

Subject: "How to Deal with Uncertainty and Change in Life"

Scripture Text: John 21:1-11 “Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. This is how it happened. Several of the disciples were there—Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples. Simon Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” “We’ll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn’t see who he was. He called out, “Fellows, have you caught any fish?” “No,” they replied. Then he said, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you’ll get some!” So they did, and they couldn’t haul in the net because there were so many fish in it. Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. The others stayed with the boat and pulled the loaded net to the shore, for they were only about a hundred yards from shore. When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them—fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread. “Bring some of the fish you’ve just caught,” Jesus said. So Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net to the shore. There were 153 large fish, and yet the net hadn’t torn.”

Introduction: These handpicked disciples of Jesus found themselves off target and off task in amid uncertainty. It’s normal and natural to feel uncomfortable about not knowing what's next. These feelings may arise from our desire to control our lives and environments, but unfortunately, in life there is a lot that’s out of our control. When we can't predict or influence the future, especially in high-stakes situations, it's understandable to feel apprehensive and anxious. Coping during times of uncertainty requires a balanced approach to maintain both your mental and physical well-being. These disciples were trying to find a new rhythm for their life. They needed a regular routine they could control. Now without sleep and food, they only had each other for support. Fish activities normally reduced their stress and improved their mood. This trip only increased their anxiety and robbed them of their focus. How do you Keep focused during in uncertain days?

John 21 is the story of the resurrected Lord who appeared to His disciples at the end of an all-night fishing trip. Jesus encouraged them to cast their nets of the right side of the boat for success. Then on the shore, Jesus called them to himself, cook them breakfast and ate with them and invited Peter to demonstrate his love for the Lord by feeding His sheep. The disciples had become sidetracked. If it can happen to them, it can happen to us. What do you expect to accomplish in the season of uncertainty? What has captured your attention up to the point? How will you carry out what God called you to do? How will you maintain your focus in the face of discouragement, delays and disappointments?

Do you remember how clear your vision was when you first started out? You just wanted to see people saved. You wanted to see them grow to maturity. Remember, it was before you were a founder, or pastor. Before you were a bishop or an apostle. I remember how simple my life was before all this! Our world is so noisy and there are things crying out for attention. Staying focus requires a constant effort for me. I keep focused by stopping some of the noise and focusing on what’s important. I am still in a race that has eternal consequences. I refocus my attention, to get back on course, make necessary adjustments, revise my strategies and refocus on my assignment. How will you keep the vision in clear view with so many distractions? Many of us start out well but tend to lose our focus. Pressing needs and concerns causes many to abandon their goals and forget their dreams. They settle for a place on the sideline where ministry becomes a response to crisis rather than building the kingdom.

John’s gospel gives us insight about focus. Amazingly, John chose not to end his gospel with the ascension. How could he not want to end his gospel on such a high note. It does not get any better than having your Lord disappearing into the clouds, while the angels are saying, “This same Jesus is coming again in like manner.” No, John concludes with this fascinating story of a weary Simon Peter and several discouraged disciples on an unsuccessful fishing expedition.