Fish out of Water

One of my favorite wedding gifts 25 years ago was from my Uncle Gene. He provided a free fishing float trip on the South Umpqua River. Despite his official “guide” status, I struggled to follow all of his experienced recommendations to meet our shared goal of catching as many fish as possible. In particular, I didn’t want to allow him to bait my line and unhook each fish I caught. While I watched my new bride efficiently bag many more fish using his suggested strategy, I struggled to keep up. My pride of “knowing better” than the expert in the boat limited the harvest. 

During the month of February CCS will focus on the fruit of Spirit of “goodness.” The source of everything that is good comes from our perfect Heavenly Father. His son Jesus embodies this goodness, revealing the corresponding heart, words, and actions that define all that is good. 

In our flesh, it is so easy to replace God’s perfect goodness with a diluted form that fits our selfish desires. How silly of me to refuse the guidance of my Uncle Gene! I chose instead to embrace the boastful stance that a real fisherman manages his own fishing rod.

Since that humbling learning experience, I have had several other fishing trips. Many times I have been partnered with my older brother who is also a renowned fishing guide. Fortunately, I have embraced all of his fishing guidance with open arms. Whether catching steelhead with my wife in Idaho or King Salmon in Alaska with my son, my entire family has benefitted from embracing the goodness of my brother’s experience and expertise. 

As parents and lead disciplers, it is important to be aware when we might replace God’s “goodness” with a watered-down counterfeit, often fueled by our human pride. Sometimes, it may be well-intended, even thinking we are being helpful or loving. But choosing to negate one of God’s truths because we think we know better is only a recipe to limit His intended harvest in His Kingdom. 

So whether fishing for small-mouth bass, fishing for men, or attempting to integrate God’s truth into this crazy culture, may the fruit of “goodness” flow from His divine Spirit living in each of us! ​