If you have ever fished with a cork and a hook baited with a cricket or worm, you know you may have to wait a long time for a bite. As the cork bobs gently with the water, you sit patiently waiting for any sign of a nibble. The fish become very curious, testing your bait. You want to be ready. The instant that you feel a slight tug on the hook, watch the cork sink below the water, you set the hook and reel in your fish. Well, that's how it is suppose to work.
I have watched my son, John, fish for hours day or night, waiting for the big one. He even has his poles rigged with bells and secured in rod and reel holders, so if he leaves his fishing spot, the bell will ring to let him know that he has a bite. Also having several lines in the water at one time, multiplies his chances of catching tomorrow's dinner.
Patience is one lesson that can be learned through fishing. Without it, there's no catch of the day.
When we share Christ with others, we also must learn to be patient. Often people are curious about Christ. They may ask questions and then want to think on it for a while. They are nibbling at the bait. Don't give up and pull the cork out of the water too soon or you may lose the opportunity to bring a friend or a family member into God's kingdom.
Unlike fishing for the catch of the day to provide for daily food, being a fisher of men has heavenly significance and the benefits are eternal.