God's simple requests are often steppingstones to life's greatest blessings. When Peter agreed to fulfill the Lord's two small requests, his entire mission changed from fisher of fish to fisher of men.

A tiring and unproductive night of work undoubtedly left Peter tired (Luke 5:5). However, he gladly accepted Jesus on board and moved his boat so that Jesus' words would reach the crowd. After giving his message, Jesus told Peter to go out into deeper water, even though it was not the right time. Despite the hour, Peter obeyed and was blessed with not one, but two loads of fish.

Often, God's blessings result from our obedience to seemingly insignificant requests.

If Peter had refused to lend his boat to Jesus or risk going fishing at noon, he would have missed out on the blessing of a great catch, and perhaps the opportunity to be an apostle.

Over the next few years, Peter personally witnessed miracles more spectacular than the one he saw that first day. Honoring Christ's first request led to the sermon at Pentecost and the salvation of about 3,000 souls (Acts 2:14â€"41).

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for today's message. Help me see where in my life I haven't said "yes" to you yet. Help me to see those opportunities hidden in the small details of my daily routine where I can say "yes" to you. And may every "yes" be out of love for You and to serve others. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

1.    Luke 5:4-5 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.