Let God Turn Work Setbacks Into Comebacks

In Luke 5:6 it says, “When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.” (NIV)

In my own life, there are times when I have felt discouraged with or worn out from my work. I’ve put my heart and soul into a project, and it simply failed.

A lot of others have faced similar setbacks in life including the disciples. But it’s what happens after the setback that is truly important.

Peter was a fisherman by trade. One day he and his fellow fishermen were washing their nets after spending the whole night fishing—and catching nothing. When they didn’t catch fish, they didn’t make money. No doubt they were discouraged and tired.

And then Jesus came along and did the impossible. He told Simon Peter: “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4 NIV).

Simon Peter’s response was typical of someone who’s frustrated: “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything” (Luke 5:5 NIV).

I think we’ve all hit that stage. We’ve given our work our best shot and come up empty. We’ve done everything right—and we may even believe God led us to do what we’re doing—but we have nothing to show for it. We’re ready to give up. 

But then Jesus shows up. He reveals how he’s been working in my life, doing things I haven’t been able to see until now. He meets my needs. He redeems a bad situation.

And he proves he is Lord over everything.

Simon Peter and his companions obeyed Jesus’ instructions, and “when they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break” (Luke 5:6 NIV).

Not only did they catch enough fish for themselves, but God also gave them enough to share with other fishermen.

When Jesus joined their efforts, they caught more fish in 10 minutes than they had in the previous 10 hours. God turned a setback into a comeback.

So I may be frustrated because of setback after setback in life. I may be tired and discouraged, wondering if things can ever get back on track. And I can empathize with Simon Peter’s frustration.

Well my comeback may be just around the corner.

Even if I can’t see it yet, God is working in my life, transforming bad into good, turning my setback into a comeback.