Teaching Kids About Work .. About Fishing .. and thoughts on hunting too ..
Read | Mark 1:16-20 .. and think about what Jesus says .. “I will make you fishers of people.”
Jesus’ call to be fishers of men extends to modern believers .. wheter fishermen, hunters or outdoor enthusiasts .. In order for anyone to achieve and become all that God has in mind, it is crucial to learn the right attitude toward work and leisure – whether it relates to your vocation as a fishing guide or outfitter – and your service to the Lord.
As parents, we must teach our children these additional lessons from fishing: A fisherman must be industrious. The Bible tells us that Zebedee had some hired help (Mark 1:20). He didn’t settle for simply catching enough fish to feed his own family; he built a successful business that could also sustain his employees. It is likely that Zebedee taught his sons to aspire to reach their full potential instead of accepting “good enough.”
A fisherman .. a hunter .. even a camper .. must be disciplined. He doesn’t have the option of sleeping late or leaving the water early, or not properly scouting out his area even though he is tired .. or walked a long distance or spent his day out on the water. He or She .. recognizes that the work must be done – cleaning the equipment to keep it all in good repair and top condition.
Zebedee’s sons learned responsibility and self- control on their father’s boat… just as we all learned the same when we went hunting and camping. You must be persistent and consistent – sometimes the best catch or the biggest buck is often taken after everyone else gives up and comes in. Zebedee undoubtedly taught James and John not to quit until they gave their best effort – always giving 100% – This ingrained attitude was essential when Jesus sent the disciples out to evangelize the world.
The order to spread the gospel is still in effect. The church needs committed believers who teach and demonstrate a biblical mindset .. Loving others as we love ourselves – Parents who model industry, discipline, and persistence – are most likely to raise children determined to win the world for Jesus Christ if we have taught them the “principles” of right living .. faith .. hope .. and LOVE! .