What If I’m the Bad Fish? A Question Worth Asking

Matthew 13:47-52 - “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away. That is the way it will be at the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked people from the righteous, throwing the wicked into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Do you understand all these things?” “Yes,” they said, “we do.” Then he added, “Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old.” (NLT)

Devotional Series: The Stories Jesus Told

Whenever I read the words of Jesus, I find myself asking: Do I really believe what He is actually saying? What is Jesus saying to me today?

Christianity, my faith, church, His Kingdom—however I want to define it—is open and available to everyone. The net is cast wide, and it captures everyone—both the good and the bad. This I know and agree with.

But do I really believe that a time will come when the good fish and the bad fish will be separated? Am I a good fish, or am I a bad fish? If I think I am a good fish, why am I waiting for the demise or collapse of the bad fish?

The words of Jesus always make me reflect on the state of my own heart. Will I truly be included among the righteous, or am I wicked? This story reminds me that it’s possible to be among the righteous and still be truly wicked.

It isn’t a moment for me to think about someone else this passage might be referring to—but a chance for me to hold up the mirror of the Word to my own life and actions.

That is my prayer this morning: Lord, deliver me from wickedness! Help me to be a good fish, and do not throw me away on the day of judgment.

Questions for reflection: What is the state of my heart? Are there any areas in my life where others—or the Lord—might describe me as wicked? Have I asked the Lord for help and forgiveness?