LET’S GO FISHING
This time of year is the perfect time to fish. We all went to the reservoir last weekend and cast the nets. Barrett caught his first fish. He baited, he cast, and he caught. He reeled in a large bass. He was so excited. He tells everyone he caught it on a Junebug lizard. We all love to hear him say that in his little voice.
When we go fishing, it depends on fish we are trying to catch as to what bait we use. We may be fishing in fresh water or salt water. We may be fishing for trout, bass, crappie, catfish, grouper, tuna there are many fish out there. Depending on the type of fishing you do determines what pole you use and what bait you use. When fishing you have to be diligent use the right bait, cast on the right side, take your time and then reel in slowly.
Last week we discussed how yes Easter is over; however, it isn’t. After Easter is when Jesus told the disciples to go out into the world and fish. It gave the Great Commission. He told them to go out baptize and teach others about Him and what He has commanded.
John 21:6 NIV
Cast the net over the right side of the boat, and you will find something. So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish.
Luke 5:5-10 New International Version (NIV)
5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”
6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners.
Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.”
Jesus was giving Peter instructions. Peter was a little uneasy about it. He thought I am the fisherman and a carpenter is given me lessons on how to fish. But Peter had seen Jesus perform some incredible miracles, like healing his mother in law and those that were possessed. So why shouldn’t he do what Jesus said?
Peter loving Jesus as he did said, “Ok I will take your word for it and fish on the other side,” even though he was thinking yea right we will see if that works.
When Peter let down the nets, he showed his faith in Jesus. He disregarded what he thought as a fisherman, what he understood that caught fish and acted in faith alone.
Oh my gosh! Wow! Jesus, you were right! Is what they were saying. Their nets were breaking the boat was sinking the fish were caught more than they ever expected. Fish, fish and more fish! What a catch! Peters act of faith was rewarded.
It was now that Jesus explained the symbolism of catching fish. From now on you will cast your nets and fish for men. You will bring others to me.
This is what we are to do as Christians, we are to cast our nets. Just like fishing, we may have to use specific bait for certain people. We may have to fish for certain people at different times. It is essentially Gods way and His timing. When we draw close to Him, praise Him and ask Him to lead us we will be directed to fish at the correct time and with the appropriate words to show His goodness and love.
Don’t be fearful of fishing. Let God lead you. Be led by discernment and follow Him. Step out into the unknown, into the deep water and throw out your line.
We have to cast our nets in places that may seem uncomfortable or uncatchable. We have to cast away our fear and throw out the net. If we don’t, we will miss the opportunity to reel those that need Christ to him.
Bait your hook, cast your line and reel in people to Christ. Don’t just be a fisherman be a fisher of men. They will be blessed, and you will also be blessed.
Cast out in faith!
CHALLENGES OF THE WEEK
- Keep your daily appointment with Christ
- Dig deep into the word
- Go fishing, throw in your nets
- Fill your cup with Christ so that you can fill other cups
EXTRA READING:
The Miraculous Catch of Fish and the Calling of Peter
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