“Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:5-7

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” — Mark 1:17

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Casting to the Depths

By Jennifer Kane

He stood on the shore,

hands unclasped, releasing

the nets once clenched tight—

threads tangled with worry,

knotted with fears too heavy to hold.

One by one, he let them go,

casting them out into the unknown,

each line loosening with every step,

the weight lifting as they sank

beyond the reach of troubled shores.

Here, at the edge of all he knew,

he bent low—drawn to humility’s call—

finding quiet strength in surrender,

a peace that grew as he released

each burden, each pride,

until he stood unbound.

Into depths deeper than sight,

his cares drifted, unmoored and free,

held by the hands of One who knows,

who gathers every knot, every line,

and bears them on tides of unfailing love.

And as he stood, unburdened,

he felt the gentle pull of grace,

lifting him as he bowed low,

anchored in a care that holds

and carries him where he cannot go.

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Scripture: 1 Peter 5:5-7, Mark 1:17

In this passage, Peter calls us to a life marked by humility, a virtue that not only connects us to God’s grace but also shapes how we relate to others. To be “clothed with humility” means adopting a servant’s posture, much like Christ did when He washed the feet of His disciples. It’s an invitation to embrace a spirit of submission, setting aside our own needs and desires in favor of serving God and those around us. This humility, though outwardly displayed, springs from an inward submission to God’s authority and love.

Humility asks us to lay down our pride, which often manifests as self-reliance and control, and embrace God’s plans over our own. It’s tempting to cling to the idea that we can handle our lives on our own terms, yet Peter reminds us that true strength lies in acknowledging our dependence on God. When we humble ourselves under His mighty hand, we are not diminished but exalted at the right time, according to His wisdom.

Casting our cares upon God is an act of humility itself, a surrender of control. It’s more than a passive release; it’s an active, ongoing choice to entrust every burden, fear, and unresolved question to the One who cares for us. This casting is a freeing motion, one that involves our whole being. In prayer, we pour out our hearts, and in faith, we trust that God hears and will respond with love and wisdom. Peter’s invitation to “cast all your care” is a reminder that we were not designed to carry life’s burdens alone. Each burden we release into God’s hands loosens the grip of pride and opens us to receive His grace.

Take a moment to examine any burdens you may be carrying. Are there areas where you resist letting go, where pride or fear have taken root? As you reflect, consider the image of casting your cares as an act of surrender and trust in a God who is both mighty and tender. Let each burden you release draw you closer to the peace and freedom that come from knowing you are held and guided by a loving Father.

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Dear Heavenly Father,

I come to You today with a heart open to humility. I recognize how often I cling to pride, trying to manage life on my own. Teach me to release my burdens to You fully, to trust that Your plans are better than mine. Help me surrender every worry, fear, and ambition, resting in the assurance that You care deeply for me. Let me be clothed in humility, serving You and those around me with a heart of compassion and grace. May my life reflect Your love, and may I find strength in surrender, knowing You will lift me up in due time. Thank You for being a God who not only guides but lovingly carries me through each step.

In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

November 15 2024