Casting Nets again, A comeback of Faith, Hope, and Love

After a time of silence, I am casting my nets again. Inspired by Luke 5:1-11, this comeback edition of Nourishing Our Body and Soul blog and podcast reminds us that even when life feels fruitless, Jesus calls us to trust, try again, feel His presence, and discover God's abundant blessings.

Reflection

In Luke 5:1–11, we see Jesus stepping into Simon Peter’s boat. After teaching the crowds, He turns to Peter and says, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”Peter’s response is raw and real: “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything.” In other words: “I’m tired. I’ve tried. Nothing is working.”

But then comes the turning point: “But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

That simple act of obedience changed everything. The nets were filled to the breaking point. Peter and his partners were overwhelmed—not just by the fish, but by the presence of Jesus, who turned emptiness into abundance.

This story speaks directly to our lives today. We know what it feels like to run on empty—spiritually, emotionally, physically. We’ve all had seasons where our efforts don’t seem to pay off, where the nets come up empty again and again. But Jesus invites us, too, to “cast again.” And when we do, trusting Him, we find that He nourishes both body and soul.

The FISH Acronym: Nourishment for Today

F – Faith

Faith is trusting God even when circumstances don’t make sense. Peter had every reason to pack up his nets, but faith nudged him to obey Jesus’ word. In our lives, faith means listening to God’s invitation to rest, to eat well, to pray, to care for ourselves—when everything else says we’re too busy or too tired. Faith reminds us that God sees what we don’t, and He provides in ways we can’t predict.

Nourishment practice: Speak a verse of Scripture over yourself before you eat, work, or rest. Feed your faith as intentionally as you feed your body.

I – Inspiration

The catch didn’t happen by accident. Peter had to row back out, drop the nets, and participate in the miracle. Inspired by Jesus's words and by choosing small, consistent steps that keep us aligned with God. Whether it’s preparing a wholesome meal, setting aside quiet time, or choosing kindness in a stressful moment, these choices shape the way we live out our faith.

Nourishment practice: Choose one intentional habit this week—like mindful eating, reflecting, or evening prayer—and commit to it as an act of obedience.

S – Surrender

When Peter saw the overflowing nets, he fell at Jesus’ knees: “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” Surrender is recognizing we can’t do this on our own. It’s laying down pride, control, and self-sufficiency. True nourishment comes when we stop striving and let God fill the empty spaces.

Nourishment practice: Start your day with open hands in prayer, physically stretching your palms upward as a sign of surrender. Breathe out the need to control; breathe in God’s presence.

H – Hope

Jesus didn’t just bless Peter with fish; He gave him a greater calling: “From now on, you will fish for people.” Hope looks beyond today’s exhaustion to tomorrow’s promise. It’s knowing that God has more for us than survival—He has purpose, joy, and eternal life. Hope keeps us casting the nets, even after long nights, because we know the story isn’t finished.

Nourishment practice: Write down one area of your life where you need renewed hope. Pray over it daily, trusting God to bring life where you feel empty.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we come to You like Peter—sometimes weary, sometimes empty, sometimes unsure if we can try again. Yet You remind us to cast our nets one more time, trusting not in our own strength but in Your word.

Strengthen our faith, so we dare to believe even when we cannot see you. Inspire us with your words, teach us to surrender, so we let go of control and rest in You. Renew our hope, so we look to the future with confidence in Your promises.

May our bodies be nourished by the gifts You provide, and may our souls be filled with the abundance of Your presence. Let our lives, like Peter’s nets, overflow to bless others. Amen.

Reflection & Discussion Guide

1. Where in your life do you feel like Peter—tired from trying but coming up empty?

2. Which part of the FISH acronym speaks most to you right now: Faith, Inspiration, Surrender, or Hope? Why?

3. What “small act of obedience” might Jesus be inviting you to take this week?

4. How can you nourish both your body and soul in a way that draws you closer to God?

5. Who around you could be blessed if you shared the overflow of what God is doing in your life?