The Story of Jesus Devotional for ChildrenSample

DAY 5

QUESTIONS: Yesterday, we left the story, where Jesus is sitting on Peter’s boat, telling the crowd about God’s love. Do you think there’s anything impossible for God? Today, Jesus shows the disciples to have more faith.

Today’s story is when Jesus Calls His First Disciples. You can find the story in your bibles: Matthew 4:18-22 & Luke: 5:1-11.

TITLE: Jesus Calls His First Disciples Part 2

STORY: Simon Peter’s boat swayed from side to side with the restless waves of the ocean, but Jesus didn’t feel it. He felt very happy to be bringing joy and hope to so many people. When he finished talking, he stood up and watched the crowd leave. Children jumped up and down, waved goodbye, and blew him kisses. Jesus laughed. Children were the best, and he loved them so much. Finally, when only a few people were left, he turned to Peter.

“Peter, take the boat into deep water and let down the nets so you can fish.”

Peter frowned. “But master, you do not know how hard we’ve worked.” He ran one rough hand through his hair and sighed. “We were out there ALL night. All night, master. Do you know how discouraging that is?”

Jesus looked at him but said nothing.

Peter looked over the side of the boat and into the water. “Jesus, do you know why we fish at night?”

“Why Peter?” Jesus asked, already knowing what Peter was going to tell him.

“Because the water is too clear here—it’s transparent. The fish will see the movement of our nets and not come near. That’s why we have to fish at night. Fishing at this time is impossible.” He said the last words with force!

Nothing is impossible for God, Jesus thought as he also peeked at the crystal-clear water below.

Simon Peter turned to Jesus and let out an exasperated breath. “But Lord, I will do as you say. I will let down the nets.”

Peter motioned his brother Andrew to come and help him. Together, they tossed the heavy nets overboard.

Suddenly, something caught, and the net started moving violently—the men tried to hold it still, but it was almost difficult—they were losing their grip.

“Come help us!” Andrew shouted to other fishermen nearby.

The nets were bursting with fish. It was breaking and at its fullest. Sweat ran down the fishermen’s brows as they fought hard to bring the catch into their boat.

“Okay men pull. Pull.” Peter commanded as he ran to the other end to help a smaller guy.

Their eyes bulged when they saw how many fish they had caught. They laughed and cried at the sight.

Not even the heat of the sun stopped them from continuing their work.

The boats were filled to the brim, and being so heavy, they began to sink.

Laughter echoed amongst the sound of crashing waves. Jesus smiled, seeing the men rejoice.

FROM THE BIBLE: Do you know what happened next? Let’s look at our bibles. In Luke 5: 8 -11.

8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell to Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!”

9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken,

10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners.

Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.”

Let’s pray.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you, that I am also your disciple, and I can tell others about God’s love. Make me brave so I don’t feel afraid or shy to talk about what an awesome God you are. Please help me always believe in your word and your miracles.

In your name,

Amen.

**Your time with God doesn’t have to stop here—Download our 30 Days with Jesus Devotional for Kids and be blessed each morning as you learn more about your best friend Jesus. Visit www.gigistorylibrary.com.au.