Launch into the Deep

"Now, go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish."
Luke 5:4

In the story telling of the apostles after they had fished all night, we can draw so many parallels to our weight loss journey.  As you read closely, you will understand that in life (and weight loss), sometimes finding success defies logic.  What we "know" to do, isn't always what God tells us to do.  Finding success requires trusting God AND doing what He says.  Not what we think we should do.  Take a look at what happened with the apostles.

We learn that as the apostles are cleaning their nets after a long night of fishing, Jesus climbs into one of their boats and instructs them to pull away from the shore.  From here, He teaches the crowds for awhile, then proceeds to tell Simon to again cast his net into the water.  But tells him to go out a little further before doing so.  Simon replies that they had fished all night and caught nothing.  Yet because Jesus instructed, they would follow His command.  To their amazement, so many fish were caught they had to call for assistance for this massive catch.  

 Do you ever wonder if the apostles questioned and complained at all?  "Jesus, you don't understand!  We have already tried.  It's not going to work!"  Did they wonder if He really understood their problem?  Do you ever feel like He doesn't seem to get you or the seriousness your problems either?  What Jesus was asking seemed to  defy the logic of professional fishermen, like Peter, James and John for many reasons.
Think about the following:
1) It was daytime and the fish had now resorted to the bottom of the lake.  
All fisherman knew this.
 2) Their nets were not capable of "going deep" as Jesus was requesting.  
They were used to fishing in more shallow waters.  
 3)  Again, they had fished ALL night.  With no success.  And they were tired.
Thankfully Simon Peter was there, the devout follower of Jesus.
"Master, we worked all night and didn't catch a thing.
But if you say so, I'll let the nets down again."  
Upon pulling up the nets again, they were so full, they began to tear.  
At just the right time, Jesus provided more than they could've asked for, or even thought possible.  
Why?  
Because they listened, and they obeyed.
Regardless of what logic and their professional backgrounds told them.  God wants to do that for you today.   But first you must listen and obey. Regardless of what logic and professionals may say.  Whatever your challenges in life may be:

• food
•  spending
•  relationships

Listen for Christ's direction today; not Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz or your counselor in the cubicle next to you.  Defy what the world says will work and seek the will of the Master.  Launch out into the deep with Jesus today.  He wants to do more for you than you could ever imagine.
 "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." Ephesians 3:20

Let's Pray.
Dear God,
I have tried it my way for so long.  Continually struggling; starting and stopping.  Losing and gaining.  I want to launch out into the deep with You today.  I want to do it differently.  I know that requires me listening, and then following up with obedience.  Help me today, to be obedient to You.  Show me what it looks like to launch out into the deep.  I will forever give you all glory, honor and praise.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ I pray,
Amen
 
E4M DAILY STRATEGY
Launch into the Deep
You can't have a discussion about launching into the deep without talking about the benefits of seafood in weight loss plan.  Fish is a great source of protein that is low in both fat and calories.  A 3-ounce serving of fish has less than 200 calories.  Fish often has less cholesterol and saturated fat than meat too. Try incorporating the following into your meal plan once or twice a week for increased health benefits and boosting weight loss too!

1.  Salmon: Salmon contains omega-3s and vitamins and has less saturated fat than most meat and poultry.

How to prepare:
A super easy way to prepare salmon is to steam it in parchment paper.  Chop and sauté some veggies.  Place veggies and salmon on parchment paper (or aluminium foil) season with garlic, salt and pepper.  Seal and bake approx 10-15 minutes at 350 or until salmon flakes with fork.
2. Tuna:  Easy to prepare, low in calories, but high in vitamins and protein.  

How to prepare:
Brush a tuna steak with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper. Sear on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until the fish flakes easily.

3.  Cod:  A flaky, white fish that is also a good source of lots of B vitamins.  It is high in protein but low in fat and calories, making it an ideal choice for people who are trying to lose weight.
How to prepare:
Roast cod alongside your favorite vegetables in the oven.  Some great complements for this white, flaky fish are zucchini, asparagus, onions, and peppers.

4.  Halibut:  A firm, white fish with a very mild flavor. A great choice for people who do not usually enjoy fish but would like to add it to their diet.
How to prepare:
One of the simplest ways is to marinate halibut fillets in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, basil, and parsley. Grill or pan-sear the fillets until they flake easily.  Add brown rice (or cauli rice) and vegetables to create the perfect weight loss friendly meal!