Risk Takers

By Pastor Ken Foreman

Text: Luke 5:1-11

Peter was a professional fisherman, a fish expert, so to speak. Convinced of his own prowess and abiblities, he thought he fully understood what he was doing - knew all the ins and outs. Yet, though he'd toiled all night - still he'd caught no fish! What's more, he was vocal about it.

Obeying was key to what God wanted to show him... Peter's "nevertheless" meant taking a risk. "What if?" can get in the way of obedience. Then, as now, God is looking for risk-takers!

Steve Jobs, in a speech to graduates at Stamford University, said... "External expectations fall away when you realize you're going to die. No one wants to die - not even those who want to go to heaven. Death is the best invention of life."

Risk means possible dangers and death. (This is not Russian roulette or casino gambling.) To the follower of Christ, obedience means taking the right kind of risk. "Nevertheless - at Thy Word..."

Step out in faith... "I believe God!"
Get out of your comfort zone!

We're living in perilous times, but God is still looking for risk-takers - now, today!

• In the parable of the talents, the one who refused to take the risk with his talent was called an "evil servant."
• Esther said, "If I perish, I perish, but I'm going to see the king." 
• The "Three Hebrew Children" recognized the risks, acknowledged them, and concluded... God is able to deliver us. But if He doesn't, We're still not going to bow down.
• The little boy with the lunch was a risk-taker. He gave up a sure thing, and in giving it to Jesus, watched it become a blessing not only to himself, but also to the entire multitude.

Yes! Risk-taking involves setbacks and problems. But the overcomer steps out in faith onto the promises of God!