As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea – for they were fishermen. And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people." Immediately they left their nets and followed him.

Matthew 4:18-20

Fishermen always tell each other to keep a tight line, which means they should have a fish on the end of the line. However, there is a difference between fishing and catching. We fish, but it is God who catches the fish. So, our job is to walk along the streams of life, look for places where the fish may be, and cast our lines in. If one rises to the surface, leave it to God to do the catching.

Fish for people. Look for opportunities to speak about Christ, but leave the catching to God. It is calming for you and for the people you talk to. Face it, people may be turned off by your clumsy efforts. Just cast the lines, and let God do the rest. Keep your lines in the water.

When you fish for souls,

cast your nets in faith and draw them in with love.

Our Daily Bread – January 18, 2005