Have you ever felt like God was calling you to a different place? At some point in our lives, we all will experience this old familiar nudge to step into a new season and head in a new direction. But are you the type that when the confirmation comes to forge ahead, you stand paralyzed by fear of the unknown?  If so, the word of the Lord for you is to “stop mending your nets and answer the call.”

And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James [the son] of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. Matthew 4:21-22 (KJV)

In Matthew 4:21-22 we find the story of James and John. This passage of scripture gives us a perfect example of how we should respond when it’s time to leave behind old systems, seasons, mindsets, and associations to answer the call of God fully. Spiritually speaking, the ship and Zebedee (James and John’s father) represented an old season of training and service. Jesus represented a new season of training, equipping, and calling.

As I read James and John’s story, I was fascinated by how quickly and how easily they gave up the old to step into the new. They willingly left their comfort zone and what was familiar. They knew the voice of Christ and simply stepped out without any hesitation.

Another thing I found fascinating in this passage of scripture was how quickly James and John’s father, Zebedee, let go of his sons. No cursing (speaking negative words), fussing, or guilt trips were directed towards his sons. Which clearly showed that Zebedee knew the voice of God too. Zebedee’s actions also showed that he understood that there comes a time when a teacher must release the student to advance to their next level. This is a lesson that all natural and spiritual leaders must learn and embrace. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, teacher, or preacher, at some point you have to let the student go and grow to their next level of service and purpose.

In closing I want to encourage you, if it’s your time to step out and leave the former things behind, make that move. In the realm of the spirit, obedience and timing are everything. For as you step out it causes things in the natural to align for you. Your destiny is calling you, and the Lord has need of you. Stop mending your nets and answer the call to greatness!

Your Next Step Coaching For Success Minute:

• Define the nets you are still mending that you need to let go
• Write out the things you learned from your “Zebedee” and your ship experience that will help you in your new season
• Get quiet before the Lord and clarify what He is calling you to