Depart from me... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
Luke 5:8
In the fifth chapter of Luke's gospel, we have a report of a personal encounter Simon Peter had with Jesus Christ. Peter had put his fishing vessel at the Lord's disposal so that He could speak to the multitude from there. He could thus listen to the words of Jesus from His immediate proximity, as no-one else could.
Then a remarkable thing happened: at the Lord's command, Peter landed a huge catch of fish - in broad daylight and against all the rules of fishing. At first he had objected: "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing," but then he added, "Nevertheless, at your word, I will let down the net" (v.5). This came as a shock to all who were present. But Peter fell at Jesus' feet, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, o Lord!"
Why did Peter speak thus? The Lord had not reproached him in any way, but performed a miracle for which he could rejoice. What drew this admission from Peter was his realisation that the Son of God was standing before him after revealing something of His divine greatness and glory.
Being conscious of God's holiness must lead each one of us to admit his own worthlessness and sinfulness. No one has any standing before God, because as sinners by nature, we are lost. But the Lord Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. And whoever believes in Him, receives His redeeming assurance: "Do not be afraid!" (v.10).
Today's reading: Ezekiel ch.25