What It Really Means to Be Fishers of Men

Have You Ever Gone Fishing?

How many of you have gone fishing before? I would guess most of you have at least once in your life. Fishing sounds wonderful, but let’s be honest, it can be long, hot, and frustrating. Sometimes you go home empty-handed after hours of casting and reeling.

When I was growing up, our family camped at the lake almost every weekend. Back then, it was fun because Mom and Dad did all the work. As an adult? Not quite as fun when you’re the one packing, cooking, and cleaning, lol!

I remember one early morning, I took the boat out to fish. It was calm and quiet, but fun was not on the agenda. There was a whole lot of casting the line, winding it back, and casting again. Hours later, nothing. That’s when I learned that fishing and catching are two completely different things.

The Call to Be Fishers of Men

Matthew 4:19 (NIV)
¹⁹ Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

When Jesus spoke these words to Peter and Andrew, they already knew the patience and persistence that came with being fishermen. Now, He was asking them to redirect those same skills toward people, to spread the good news of the Gospel.

Fishing Takes Patience

Fishing isn’t instant gratification. The odds of catching a big one on your first cast are slim. You have to cast again and again until a fish gets curious. Even then, one wrong move and you’ve scared it off.

It’s the same with people. When we share the Gospel, not everyone will respond the first time. Some will be skeptical, hesitant, or resistant. Our job is to stay patient, keep showing love, and continue to cast the net.

Catch and Release

A fisherman doesn’t always keep what he catches. Many practice catch and release, sending the fish back into the water where it belongs.

In the same way, when someone decides to follow Christ, we don’t get to “hold onto” them. We share the message, encourage them, and then it’s up to them to live out their faith in the real world. Some may fall back into old habits, while others grow stronger and become fishermen themselves.

There Are Always More Fish

The beautiful thing about fishing is that there are always more fish in the water. Lakes, rivers, oceans, they’re full of opportunity. The same is true when it comes to people. The harvest is plentiful. There are always more hearts waiting to hear the good news of Jesus.

Following Jesus Into the Deep

Just like Peter and Andrew, we are called to lay down our nets and follow Jesus. Being “fishers of men” isn’t always easy, but the reward is eternal. There are plenty of hungry souls out there. All it takes is a willing heart, a little patience, and faith that God will use your cast at just the right time.

To God Goes The Glory!

Have A Blessed Day!

Let’s End With a Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to be fishers of men. Give us patience when our efforts feel fruitless, courage to keep sharing Your Word, and love that reflects Your heart. Help us cast our nets wide, trusting You to bring the harvest. May our words and actions draw others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you found this helpful, be sure to check out these posts:

• Share the Good: How a Kind Word Can Change Someone’s Day
• How I Start My Day With God (and Outsmart the Devil’s Distractions)