Fishing with Jesus
Fishing with Jesus On a small boat Welcome to the World of “Fishing with Jesus on a Small Boat” Discover the joy of sportfishing with Lori G. McDowell, an avid angler, mother, and author, as she shares her unique journey of faith, family, and fishing. This children’s book introducess the adventures of Salty, a young boy who dreams big, even when facing challenges. Join him and his family as they set out on their first tournament with faith in their hearts and Jesus guiding their way.
Fishing with Jesus A Journey of Faith, Trust, and Purpose
"Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men."
Matthew 4:19
Have you ever gone fishing? Sitting by the water, patiently waiting, not knowing when you'll get a bite fishing is more than just a hobby. It's a quiet moment of trust, patience, and reflection. In the Bible, Jesus often used everyday things to teach deep truths, and fishing was one of His favorite metaphors.
Fishing with Jesus is not just a title its an invitation. It means stepping into a life of purpose, guided by faith, where the waters may be deep and the fish hard to find, but the journey is filled with grace and meaning.
? The First Fishermen Jesus Called
Jesus began His ministry by calling fishermen ordinary men, like Peter, Andrew, James, and John. They werent scholars or religious leaders. They were working-class people, familiar with the weight of nets and the uncertainty of the sea. Yet, Jesus saw something greater in them.
When He said, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men, He was giving them a higher purpose not just to catch fish for food, but to reach people for God.
That same calling is extended to us today.
? Trusting Him in Deep Waters
Fishing is not about control. You can cast your line, but you cant force the fish to bite. In the same way, following Jesus means trusting Him even when we dont see instant results. Sometimes, we try and fail. Sometimes, the waters are quiet.
But in Luke 5, Jesus told Peter to cast his net one more time after a whole night of catching nothing. Peter obeyed and caught so many fish that his net began to break.
Thats what happens when we trust Jesus even when we feel tired, even when we dont understand. His timing is perfect.
? Fishing for People What Does It Mean?
Being a fisher of men means loving people, sharing hope, and showing kindness. It doesnt mean preaching loudly or forcing belief. Its about being available, gentle, and open-hearted.
Like a good fisherman is patient and observant, a follower of Christ learns to listen, care, and connect with people where they are.
You dont need to be perfect to be used by God. You just need to say, Yes, Lord. Ill follow.
? Lessons the Water Teaches Us
Fishing with Jesus teaches us:
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Patience God works in His own time.
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Humility We cant do it all alone.
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Obedience Sometimes the miracle is on the other side of one more try.
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Purpose Our lives have meaning beyond ourselves.
Just like the disciples left their nets behind, we are called to let go of our fears, excuses, and doubts and step forward in faith.
? A Childs Perspective
For children, the idea of fishing with Jesus can be playful yet powerful. Imagine a young child walking beside Jesus on the shore, asking questions, watching the waves, and learning with every step. Jesus doesn't rush. He smiles, listens, and explains things in a way even a child can understand.
This is the Jesus who calmed the storm, who multiplied fish and bread, and who sat with little children when others pushed them away.
When kids hear Fishing with Jesus, they learn:
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That Jesus wants to be their friend
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That their lives can be filled with meaning
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That they too can make a difference in others lives
? Cast Your Net Today
Jesus is still walking along the shores of our lives, calling out, Follow Me. Will you leave behind whats holding you back and go fishing with Him?
You dont need fancy equipment. You dont need a perfect past. All you need is a willing heart.
When you choose to fish with Jesus, you're not just catching blessings for yourself you're helping bring others into the light, into peace, into love.
And thats the greatest catch of all.