Good Idea or God Idea?

In the last chapter of the Gospel of John, Peter decided to go fishing. The rest of the disciples went along with him. They caught nothing that night. Then Jesus appeared and told them to try a different location. They did what he said and caught loads of fish.

Was it that the disciples were slightly off on their fishing location? I doubt it. I think their efforts were productive when God intended them to be.

Often we have well-laid, well-intentioned plans. We decide to help people, start a new project, move to a new location, or get involved in changing the world—all with the best intentions. Our friends and family may decide to go along with us and be supportive. We put all our energy, talent, experience, and resources into this pursuit. However, it doesn’t turn out the way we expect. We wonder why our efforts weren’t fruitful…at least not according to our standards.

“They don't understand [how to receive] God's approval. So they try to set up their own way to get it, and they have not accepted God's way for receiving his approval.” (God’s Word Translation of Romans 10:3)

Sometimes what seems to us like a good idea is not necessarily a God idea. How can we tell the difference? It’s really important to tune in to God and tune out everything else. The world’s input can be loud and irresistible, whereas the Spirit is subtle. The disciples didn’t recognize that their advisor was none other than Jesus, until after they caught all the fish. Most of the time, it’s easier to recognize Divine design in hindsight. 

I often ask God to reveal His plan to me. I must confess that what I’m really asking for is the ‘least problematic’ way. I imagine that God’s perfect plan will bring peace and comfort. Scripture shows otherwise. Jesus said to the father: “Thy will be done”. What followed was far from pleasant! So a problem-free outcome is not necessarily the sign of God’s approval.

A good idea might bring us validation from the world, whereas a God idea glorifies God.