Today's Photograph . . . . Eagle Cloud (Yvonne M)

Bible Study Verse John 11:3-6 Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, "Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick." When Jesus heard that, He said, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. (NKJV) Thoughts Have you ever had a big outdoor adventure all planned out and just about the time you were ready to get it started, something happened that caused the trip to be delayed?  Sometimes, God causes delays in our lives for a purpose. Maybe, you've been too selfish with your outdoor time and God knows that you need to spend more time with your wife and kids or maybe God is protecting you from an unseen danger.  Whatever the reason, know that God has a purpose and a plan for your delay.  (Michael T) Action Point Jesus delayed not out of a lack of concern, but because He was about to do something extraordinary in the lives of those He loved.  Christ knows all things. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. He even said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."  Jesus delayed because it was time to get the wheels in motion for why He was put here on Earth. Yes, He raised Lazarus from the dead which was an exciting miracle. This wonderful act did something greater; it set the stage for His own painful death and glorious resurrection. After He raised Lazarus, people either believed that He was God or they began to plot His demise. Read all of John 11 and carefully see how this entire great story played out.  When God delays you, get ready for something greater!!! Sportsmen's Tip of the Day The next time rain or a delay interferes with your great adventure, pull out some games or your Bible that you purposefully brought along. Enjoy the time given to you to get to know the people in your group.

March 21, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Gift They Will Never Forget (Raymond R)

Bible Study Verse  

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. (NIV)

Thoughts

Gifts come in many forms: 

• the gift of sight, to see the mountains and animals.
• the gift of hearing, to hear a bull elk bugle or a goose calling. 
• the gift of the deer I killed that happened to be where I could see it.

So what is the gift from God?

1. Grace.
2. Salvation.
3. Faith. 
4. All of the above.  

You answer, "D". Yep, you got it!!! As the verse reads, the emphasis of the gift focuses on grace and faith. Romans 10:17 says,  "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God," (NKJV). Therefore, by applying this principle, God gives us the faith to believe in Jesus, God gives us salvation from our sins, and salvation is ours because of God's Gift of Grace. 

The overriding principle here is that all three are gifts from God. God gave us the mountains, the rivers, the sea, the sky, and the animals that we enjoy. We didn't create them. Similarly, we can't "create" or earn our salvation. It comes from God and God alone. 

By the way, I've often heard grace defined as "God's riches at Christ's expense." Good definition; but I believe one word should be changed and that the phrase should read, "God's redemption at Christ's expense." Either way, I want it!!! 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Unwrap God's presents to you today: faith, salvation, and grace. Accept that they are gifts, and that there is no repayment necessary. Just believe in Christ and be saved.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Give a gift to your children or grandchildren that they can't have any other way--the gift of your time in the outdoors. It's a gift they will never forget!

March 20, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Going It Alone (Ron H)

Bible Study Verse

Matthew 14:23

After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. Later that night, He was there alone. (NIV) 

Thoughts

This is one passage where I can really relate to Jesus. From time to time I go to the mountains alone. It may be for an afternoon quail hunt, perhaps to try to call in a coyote, or sometimes to get away for a couple of days to clear my head and recharge my batteries--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

On those trips, I usually sleep a lot, hike some, and spend lots of time sitting and looking at a special part of God's creation, a part that He made just for me, for that moment. 

There's always a couple of books handy--Chuck Swindoll and Philip Yancey have gone on a lot of trips with me that they don't know about!!! There's always a copy of God's word, the Bible. 

These trips are great times to read His word, pray, and listen. Especially listen!!! It's amazing what God will say in a little time, if you give Him a chance and your full attention. 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Get away alone daily, even if it's just to shut the door to your office or sit in your car alone for a few minutes. Read a few Bible verses and share your thoughts with God through prayer. God wants to hear from you, and He wants to speak to you.  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

When hunting or fishing, always be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you'll return. If you can, camp where your cell phone works and check in with someone daily.

March 19, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . Buffalo Calves Are First To Arrive (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Hebrews 5:13-14   

For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (NKJV)

Thoughts

The renewing of Spring: Buffalo calves are first to arrive in my area; not long after, the elk, deer, and antelope start giving birth to their young. Those babies depend on their mother for nourishing milk and for protection from predators. 

As they mature they will rely less on their mother's milk and start to enjoy the food God has provided for them. They will become fleet of foot, able to avoid potential predators. 

(Ron T)

Action Point

When I first became a believer in Jesus Christ, I was like a baby in my understanding. 

I think back to that time--amazing how much I did not know. Through time in God's word, fellowship with other Christians and a good Bible-based church, my maturity level has and is continuing to increase. That's how it works in nature and that's how it works in our Christian walk with God.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Every year I get calls from people saying they have found an orphaned fawn. Sometimes they will even bring the baby to my office. I explain that the mother will often leave her youngster bedded down when she goes off to feed. Please help spread the word: if you or someone you know comes across a fawn alone, just leave it be. Mom will be back.

March 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . One Of Those Fly-In-On-A-Float-Plane  (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (NKJV)

Thoughts

A buddy of mine saved up a bunch of money for a dream vacation to Canada, one of those fly-in-on-a-float-plane, land on a remote lake, stay in an old log cabin and get left there for a couple weeks. The fish are so thick that they practically jump into your boat. You know what I'm talking about.

All he had to do was meet up with the outfitter in Canada, everything was provided.

As he was about to enter Canada, the customs agent asked for his passport, he couldn't find it. Now my buddy is a really nice guy, does a lot of good deeds and treats others with respect. The customs agent didn't really care about all that. Their rule is, you have to have a passport to get into their country. Since it's their country, they get to make the rules.

Without a passport my buddy couldn't get into Canada and couldn't go on his dream vacation.

(Ron T)  

Action Point

Heaven is God's creation. Since He made it, he gets to make the rules on how to get in. 

His rule is that you believe in His Son. Declare with your mouth "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead. Romans 10:9. 

It is the only way to get into Heaven. There is no fee required, being a nice person won't get you in and good deeds won't cut it. You have to have Jesus (His rule).

Once you have done that, you will know that you are Heaven bound when you leave this Earth.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Have you ever seen a sun burned aspen tree? Me neither. So if your outside in the sun and forgot your sunscreen, rub some of the white power from aspen bark on your nose and cheeks. It's all natural, God provided sunscreen. 

March 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . They Learn By  Seeing, So He'll Learn To Glass. But Will He Learn To Read God's Word In The Wilderness? (Raymond R)

Bible Study Verses

Ephesians 6:13-18

Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (NKJV)

Thoughts

This scripture in Ephesians is one of my favorites. It makes me feel as if I'm gearing up for a battle! However, sometimes it's tough to have quiet times with God, isn't it? Men especially have a difficult time with this because, frankly, reading scripture sometimes seems about as important as shining our shoes! 

A hunter will spend months in physical training preparing for a big hunt, weeks at the range, and countless hours poring over his gear. Looking at these things, we see that the ability to discipline ourselves is there, so why the difficulty with setting aside time to be with God and read His Word? Maybe it's because we don't see our life as a great battle. 

(Ruben C)

Action Point

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world,"1 Peter 5:8-9 (NKJV).

This is our battle, not our pastor's or our more spiritual friends. Don't think others will fight this one for us. 

If we're not connecting with Him, we're gonna be connecting with something else.

 

God is the Mighty Warrior. Learn of Him. Look what He did for David in 1Samuel 17. Then, read what happened to King David when he had his armor off in 2 Samuel 11:1-5.

God has given you the gear you need, warrior, right there in His Word. Use it as if your life depends on it!!! It does!!! Remember; it's not an intellectual thing, it's about connecting with God. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Taking a Bible with us on a hunt or fishing trip is an excellent idea. We can read during our down time or while in a stand. Admittedly, I can also fall asleep pretty quickly under these circumstances, so I like to take other books as well! A book inspired this devotional that I feel is so good and relevant to my spiritual walk that I can't help but recommend it to you. Wild at Heart by John Eldredge will inspire you to dig deeper in the Word, and he is clearly an outdoorsman to boot. On the first page he takes you with him on an elk hunt! If you have read it, read it again. If you haven't, get it, and I am certain you will grow from it.

March 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Black Rattlesnake (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Genesis 3:1

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" (NKJV)

Thoughts

Two days into my Arizona archery elk hunt I was target shooting in camp. I missed the entire target at 50 yards and had to go hunt my arrow down. Found it, immediately reached down to pick it up, and just before my fingers grasped it (the following occurred in about the span of let's say ½ second) saw the rattle snake, my brain registered "rattler", and then my brain screamed, "Rattler!" 

I affected a rapid reverse evasive maneuver (RREM) while releasing a defensive yell in order to confuse and disorient the enemy. It worked; the "RREM" that is.

The rattler was unimpressed with the whole situation and just laid there coiled up flicking its tongue at me seemingly harmless.

(Ruben C)

Action Point

But, rattle snakes are not harmless are they? Neither was the serpent in the garden. Though he didn't strike Eve, his venom was d-e-a-d-l-y for us all!!!

That is exactly how sin strikes. Seemingly appearing harmless, then it engulfs us, and we are deceived by our own thinking. Justifying our sin, we ask ourselves, "Is that really what God meant?"

2 Timothy 3:16 states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that all God's people may be thoroughly equipped for every good work," (TNIV). Read on in Genesis 2:16, "And the LORD God commanded the man, 'You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will certainly die,' " (TNIV).

God's word is clear!!! Do not put a question mark in scripture where God put a period!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

As the weather warms rattlers and other reptiles (on this hunt I encountered numerous Horned Toad lizards and even a Gila monster) will find their way into the sunshine to warm up where you'll discover them lazing in the sun. Give the poisonous ones a wide berth. They'll more likely than not, not even mind your passing.

March 15, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Before The Last Rays of Sun Disappeared (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

2 Corinthians 4:6

For it is the God Who commanded light to shine out of darkness, Who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (NKJV)

Thoughts

The Source of Light, Jesus the guiding Light,is important in our lives.

Deer season and a full moon had happened during the same time frame. The deer were feeding freely during the night and bedding down during the day. Unless you just happened to kick one up walking to your hunt site, hunting in a stand during the day was almost non-existent.

I decided to stay on my stand as long as possible into the evening, hoping to see deer moving right before the last rays of sun disappeared. My hunting location was about three-quarters mile from camp along an old, unused logging road. I had my flashlight and thought I would have no problem finding my way back to camp in the dark. 

But, the path that had been so easy to follow in the light of day was only dimly delineated in the dark of night. I had some anxious moments, wondering whether I would end up back at camp. Finally, I saw the campfire of my hunting buddy that would guide me through the trees. 

(Tom B)

Action Point

Jesus is the guiding Light, the flashlight you might say, leading us to the Source of Light in our lives. God is the campfire that illumines our lives, brings light into our daily life, if we just strike the match, and continue to add wood to the fire by reading His Holy Word.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you haven't graduated to LED lights, you should give them a try. Flashlights are still a good source of light, but the lights utilizing LED generation beats the traditional flashlight any day; plus, they are usually smaller. I have a light that I can clip onto the bill of my fishing/cap or shirt pocket and then don't even have to hold.

March 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Go And Do Likewise (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Luke 10: 29-37

But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Then Jesus answered and said: "A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, 'Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.' So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?"  And he said, "He who showed mercy on him."

Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." (NKJV)

  

Thoughts

Two older men were launching their new bass boat at the ramp and having problems getting the outboard motor started. In the course of events, the boat drifted away from them and grounded itself on the other side of the cove. 

A helpful angler in his own boat went over to the wayward boat, tied it to his, and towed it back to the dock. The drifted boat was also filling with water--the drain plug had been put in the livewell drain instead of the boat drain. To further complicate matters, the bilge pump would not work. 

Watching what was going on, another angler jumped into the sinking boat and worked at getting the outboard to start. Finally it kicked in and he maneuvered the boat onto the boat trailer that was still standing in the water at the boat ramp. 

The boat was pulled out of the water and left to drain on the sidelines. 

This was a very awkward moment for the two anglers who were trying to launch the new boat. Besides the anglers who rendered aid, there were other people who had gathered to watch what was happening. Though there could have been lots of guffawing going on about the anglers' plight, there wasn't. Everybody was helpful in offering comments or fixing the immediate problem. 

(Tom B)

  

Action Point

How many times in our everyday lives do we come upon someone who needs help? Maybe it's someone with a stalled car or flat tire stranded along the freeway. Our response might be, "Someone else will stop; I'm running late for an appointment." I'm guilty of that one! 

Perhaps it happens out on the water while fishing: A buddy achieves the backlash of the year; it happens to everybody. He has been picking away at the tangled mess for at least four or five minutes. Do we offer to help clear the backlash or offer one of our rods for him to use? 

There are numerous opportunities to help someone in need. We need to memorize and follow His teaching when Jesus said, "Go and do likewise."

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When I find a lure that works, I purchase a couple extra of the same lure the next time I'm at the tackle shop. If I lose one, then I have another of the same lure to tie on to my line. Also, if my fishing buddy is not catching anything, I can offer him one of the lures so he can catch some fish.

March 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Grizzly Track On The Toklat River, AK (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 139:7-8

Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into Heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. (NKJV)

Thoughts

The other day at work I had arrested two illegal citizens. I turned my back for just a split second and one of them fled into the desert, trying to escape. With the help of another skilled tracker with whom I work, we were able to track him down surprisingly fast. 

After the arrest, I began to think about how we sometimes flee from God in shame when we have done wrong, believing we can escape His presence. But as Psalm 139:1-2 say, "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; you understand my thought afar off," (NKJV).

I'm sure glad He knows where to find me!!! 

(Jimmy S)

Action Point

Rather than fleeing from God when we do wrong, it's so much easier in the end if we just turn and run to Him. He's always there, arms open wide, waiting to forgive us, and help get us back on track!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When tracking game, always mark your last known track or piece of evidence with flagging. Look in the most likely lines of travel for more evidence of the direction of your quarry. Try not to destroy any tracks or other evidence as you go so you'll have something to come back to if you have to start over.

March 12, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Nothing More Is Needed Than You Being There With Them (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Mark 9:36-37

Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them, "Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me." (NKJV)

Thoughts

These days, there are so many things that can cause us to shorten our time with our kids. I won't even begin to list them. You know what they are in your life. Yet, I hear parents complain about their kid's behavior or their trouble with school work. Then later in life, they end up involved in drugs or even jail for criminal activities. 

Jesus made it simple for us. He said if you spend time with your kids you will be blessed. The best part is, so will your kids!!! 

(Jimmy S)

Action Time

Involve your kids in your daily activities. Better yet, involve yourself in their daily activities. All they really want is your presence. Nothing more is needed than you being there with them. That's it!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Kids love to catch fish. I've found that a slip bobber and a minnow can do wonders for kids. It's easy to cast and you spend more time un-hooking fish, rather than un-tangling a mess in their line. Look up "using slip bobbers" on the internet if you aren't sure how to rig them.

March 11, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Do Your Best To Bleed Out The Animals You Take During Hunting (NPS)

Bible Study Verse 

Deuteronomy 12:15-16 

"However, you may slaughter and eat meat within all your gates, whatever your heart desires, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which He has given you; the unclean and the clean may eat of it, of the gazelle and the deer alike. Only you shall not eat the blood; you shall pour it on the earth like water. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Is it okay to be a hunter? Is it okay to kill an animal? Is it okay to eat the meat of animals? Does God approve or condemn these practices? These verses clearly sanction the slaughter and the consumption of animals for meat. Jesus ate fish while on the earth, and chose commercial fishermen to be among his apostles. The animals are a part of the stewardship of the Earth that God has given to humans. Specifically named in these verses are domestic and wild game animals. He approves the use of animals for meat, leather, and for labor. 

It is amazing to hunting dog lovers that using our dogs for hunting is considered abuse of them by some people. Let God's rules and guidelines apply to our lives. 

(Jack M)

Action Point

God's Word is practical. It gives us guidance and strength. It gives us clear instruction on many issues that impact our lives. It tells us all we need to know in order to please the Lord. "Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him Who called us by glory and virtue," 2 Peter 1:2-3 (NKJV). 

It does not tell us all we might like to know; but the Bible does give us all that we need to know in order to please God and live a life that He approves. We need to hear it, read it, meditate on it, memorize it, and practice its principles. It will bring life and satisfaction to all who do so.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Do your best to bleed out the animals you take during hunting. Sometimes the shot itself will accomplish this task. Learn to do so properly and humanely. Improper bleeding may ruin a cape that will be used for mounting. Go to an experienced hunter, or your taxidermist to learn this skill.

March 10, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Don't Go It Alone (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ecclesiastes 4:9  

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. (NIV))

Thoughts

Blocking is an important tool for successful hunting of many kinds. In deer hunting we call it setting up a drive. 

Wild pheasants and many other types of game like to run if possible. They will run through cover at the sound of approaching danger. When they think it is safe, they will escape into the air or run to safer places. 

While success may be had hunting solo, it is much more productive hunting with others. Hunting partners get good return for their partnership. 

(Jack M) 

Action Point

Don't go it alone!!! God made us for team work. He made us to partner with Him in a personal love relationship, but sin separated us from Him. Satan entices us to sin and attempt to make it on our own. God provided forgiveness for our sin in his Son, Jesus. Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to secure the way to God (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). We must receive Christ to establish the relationship with God that He intended. God made us to enjoy and partner with other people too. 

Partners help each other and make each other more effective. It allows a multiplication of energy for success and the good of both. This is true in spiritual things as well as in hunting and recreational activities. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

For successful upland bird hunting, try blocking. Put hunters in the flank position--a 45 degree angle to the sides of the drivers who are in the middle of the cover or field. Post other hunters at the end of the field, then walk toward the posted hunters, into the wind if possible. Make sure safe shooting lanes have been assigned ahead of time. The hunters on the flank should stay slightly ahead of the dogs and the walking hunters. This will allow game that flushes wildly to present shots that would never be realized in other ways. This tactic is essential in wild pheasant hunting early in the season, and can make the difference in having any success at all late in the season.

March 9, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Goose Lake, White River National Wildlife Refuge, Arkansas (NWRC.USGS.GOV)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 17:22

A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones. (NKJV)

Thoughts

One of my family's honey holes for fishing is in the wilds of the White River National Wildlife Refuge in central Arkansas. We take a small twelve-foot boat, motor until we can't motor anymore and wade through the mud pulling the boat to get to the remote lakes. 

As you can imagine, we see and hear some pretty strange things back in the deep woods. On one such trip, we heard what I now surmise to be a bird; but at the time, it was downright eerie! It went, "WHOOOOOOOPPP!" 

We looked wide-eyed at each other as the weird sound echoed through the river-bottoms. Then my brother whispered, "I guess a sasquatch slipped in the mud!" We literally rolled in the bottom of the muddy boat laughing. I laughed until my sides hurt. We still don't know what made the eerie sound, but my hat is off to it. We had a great laugh at its expense! 

(Brian H)

Action Point

I hate the fact that the world and Satan has taken so much of our joy away. Often we live so focused on our jobs, the economy, making ends meet, family priorities and more, and leave little time or energy for any joy. 

We serve a God of joy. I can just see Jesus when the children would pile up in His lap. Can't you see Him tickling their belly as they playfully pulled at his beard? I can imagine a sweet smile on His face as He lifted a little one up in the air and spun around; and a smile now as we obey a command or use His strength to overcome a weakness. 

The bottom line is that He is a God of warm joy. Let's seek to know Him deeper. Let's determine to allow His joy to penetrate our lives. Let's demonstrate Him to the world by being a people of infectious joy!!! Be a contagious laugher. Then tell the world that it's Jesus who brings the joy!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

In Arkansas, we warm up for deer season by squirrel hunting. September, when our squirrel season opens, is a great time to slip around quietly through the woods. You can practice your stalking, your marksmanship, and bring home some meat that is great with dumplings or in Cajun stew or gumbo, all in one trip. Give it a try!

March 8, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Whitetail Buck (FWS)

Bible Study Verses

Joshua 14:10b-12

"Now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in. Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day; for you heard in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fortified. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall be able to drive them out as the Lord said." (NKJV)

Thoughts

In Arkansas, deer season is beginning to really wind down in late December. The rut is long since gone and the orange army has retreated. Rifle season is about over, deer are wary from the last two months of hunting, and it usually rains a lot. But sometimes, a die-hard hunter can come away with a great deer in December.

In 2006, my middle son and I braved frigid weather on a Saturday morning to sit in our tree. We walked away with a nice non-typical nine-pointer. Man, talk about a fast-break slam-dunk right at the end of the quarter! I love to finish well!

(Brian H)

Action Point

You've got to love Caleb! He's wandered for forty years with the rest of the nation and now he's in his eighties--ready for the rocking chair, right? Absolutely not!!! Caleb says to give him what God promised him all those years ago!!! Giants in the land? No problem! Caleb is still doing what he always has done--following God.

   

My challenge to you is this: regardless of your age, gender, or any other factor, determine right now to finish well. Take the time that you have left on this Earth and make the most of it for God. It may or may not be December in your life, but finish well regardless. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Spending too much on seed for your food plots? Check your local discount store for the bargain bags of birdseed. Read the contents carefully. Many of the birdseeds on the market are largely comprised of wheat and other "goodies" that are safe to sow and well received by deer and turkeys. Last year, I paid $15 for a small bag of the good stuff and less than $5 for a bag of birdseed. 

March 7, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Sasquatch Of  The Cave (NPS)

Bible Study Verse  

Acts 8:26

Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, "Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." This is desert. (NKJV)

Thoughts

I remember hiking with my Dad and coming upon a cave tucked into the wall of a cliff. It was rather tall, as caves go, standing about seven feet. I was scared, but decided to enter and find where it led. 

As I climbed in, I carried a flashlight in one hand and a knife in the other. I am not sure what the knife would have done for me, but I felt better having it. As I moved farther into it, the cave began to shrink rapidly, so that within a dozen feet I was down on my hands and knees. Then I was on my belly crawling. Before too long, I was squeezing through a very narrow passage that forced me to wiggle while lying on my side with one hand in front of me, holding the flashlight, and the other down at my side. 

Then I felt a sting, then another and another; something was attacking me--biting and stabbing every part of my body. The more I moved, the more it hurt. I dropped the flashlight and the knife and began trying to wiggle back out. My mind raced with images of every conceivable venomous, poisonous, or sharp-clawed creature whose home I had just invaded. Every move intensified the pain! I finally managed to get onto my knees and crawl backwards to the opening.

My Dad looked very concerned at the mouth of the cave; and based on my screams, was sure I had been attacked by the Sasquatch that inhabited it. 

When I emerged, I was covered head to toe in porcupine quills that littered the floor of this porcupine family's home. 

(Brett M) 

Action Point

Phillip had a ministry in Samaria that was going well when God told him to go travel an unknown desert road. God instructed Noah how to build a boat on dry land in a time in which rain had never fallen. God had Moses leave Egypt and take the Israelites with him to an unknown destination. Hosea was to marry a prostitute. A prostitute!!! Talk about being outside your comfort zone!!!

Sometimes God tells us to go to places where we are not comfortable, ones that are contrary to the warmth and coziness of our lives--places that appear dark, scary and may or may not contain Sasquatches. 

God does not need us to do these things for Him; He is perfectly capable of accomplishing what He needs without our help. He takes us into these seemingly fearful places for us--to increase our trust in Him--and for others whose lives He allows our experiences to impact. 

The next time God asks you to go where you are not comfortable, remember what Paul says in Philippians 4:13, " I can do all things through Christ[a] who strengthens me," (NKJV).  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Porcupine quills are barbed and can deeply imbed themselves into the skin if left untreated. Use pliers to grasp the quill as closely to the skin as possible and pull sharply. Afterwards, apply an antibiotic cream to the affected area. 

March 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Walhalla Glades Indian Ruin Grand Canyon North Rim

Bible Study Verses

James 3:5-6

Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. (NKJV)

Thoughts

They were a small group of campers enjoying a vacation away from home. They left their campground and their campfire unattended. Maybe they were going for more supplies or perhaps they were going to explore God's majesty. Regardless, when they returned, their campfire had sparked a 2000-acre wildfire just a few miles from the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

I was in the area just after the fire's final containment. Logs and stumps still smoldered and smoke lay low early in the morning. Although my purpose was to scout the area, I was intrigued by the devastation. In addition to being a firefighter, I am also a fire investigator. Limited to urban fires where a large fire is tens-of-thousand square feet, a fire of thousands of acres peaked my interest. 

I located the point of origin--a campfire that looked like any other, but the difference was that 50ft from the campfire was a small patch of burned grass, then another, and another; then a blackened oak thicket, and additional black pockets, until you could see where the fire climbed into the crowns of the towering ponderosa pines. By the time I reached the far end of the head of the fire some two miles away, where the forest service firefighters had bravely managed to stop the advancing inferno, it looked like a moonscape, black and desolate, void of color or life. 

(Brett M)

Action Point

It surprised me that the fire started as just a pocket of grass on fire some 50 feet from the campfire. Then it grew into additional spot fires and ultimately a 2000-acre forest fire.

James describes our tongue (our words) as having the same effect as that wild fire. Sometimes spoken in haste, sometimes as gossip, or often just as thoughtless, careless banter. The words that start out small and appear innocent enough can explode into destruction--destruction of lives and of relationships. Once those words are spoken, it is impossible to reverse or control them.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

There was a clearing of absolutely no brush in a 40 foot radius of this campfire ring. Although attempts were made to establish a safe, smart campfire, there is no substitute for attentiveness. When leaving camp, make sure the fire is drowned out with plenty of water.

March 5, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Just About Every Time I Go Into The Woods, I Try To Be Something I'm Not (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Ephesians 5:1-2

Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (NIV)

Thoughts

Just about every time I go into the woods, I try to be something I'm not. I imitate something else--perhaps a dying rabbit, to attract a coyote or mountain lion; or maybe a worm, to attract a smallmouth bass. I almost always try to imitate something that will help me successfully outwit my prey.

In my life as a Christian, I have but One to imitate--God--by being like His Son, Jesus. One of the ways Jesus taught us to imitate God is by loving those He came to seek and to save. He loved us, even to the point of death. That is being like God; and that is what is going to attract others to take God's "bait" and accept His gift of salvation.

 (Cliff S)

Action Point

Being a Christian isn't all that complicated. We are to simply be like Jesus, and, therefore, be like God. To do that, we must love as Jesus loved--the Father above all else, and others as He loved them.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you're going to go varmint calling, be sure of the prey species in the area where you're headed and have the appropriate calls. Then, listen to some tapes or DVDs and practice. That's right, drive the neighbor's dog crazy!

March 4, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Those Wild Campfire Stories (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 32:1-2

Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one

whose sin the LORD does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. (NIV)

Thoughts

David had to be thinking about hunters and fishermen when he added the last phrase to verse two "in whose spirit is no deceit." 

When you're sitting around the campfire telling tall tales, most of those listening can tell the true story from some exaggerated fable! Just how big was that buck? Well, I remember that the first time you told that story, he was an average two-point. When did he grow to the huge four-point dimensions you're now describing? It's all in good fun, makes great stories for the kids listening; and it's easy to forgive the friend for the little bit of deceit. 

In this passage, the phrase carries a far greater meaning. Only those who are honest with God about their sins will receive His forgiveness. David said that God blesses those who do so by not counting their sins against them--He has forgiven their sins. It is probably a good idea to be up-front with God and leave the "deceit" to stories around the campfire! 

(Cliff S)  

Action Point

Be honest with God; be in agreement with Him about your sinful condition. If you will confess your sins, God has promised over and over again in His word to forgive you and to accept you around His campfire!!! 

I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to hearing His fishing stories! 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Have fun with your hunting and fishing partners in the outdoors. Tell those wild campfire stories; make the kids eyes grow wide with amazement, and somehow, record the stories so they'll outlive you.

March 3, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Whitetail Buck (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Luke 16:13

"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."  (NIV)

Thoughts

I was in my stand on a cool, clear, and crisp November afternoon. It was the perfect day to be hunting whitetail. The rut was in full gear. The possibility of getting a trophy buck was high, plus it was a great opportunity to get away from the stresses of life. 

The monster eight-point appeared out of nowhere. I began to focus on the deer's rack. In a matter of moments, over twenty years of practice and training flew out the window. I already had the deer mounted and hanging over my bed. The only thing left to do was to convince the wife that this was the best spot to hang my first trophy Michigan whitetail! 

Armed with only two arrows, I released my first shot into the mud at his feet. The second shot flew just over his back. I waited until he sauntered out of sight and climbed down to retrieve my first arrow. He returned and presented me with an easy thirty yard shot. Smack! I hit a small sapling.

It took me a week to get over the pain of missing this buck, but it gave me time to reflect on why I had missed three times. I realized that I wasn't focused on the right thing, those intangibles that had made me a successful hunter over the years. I was too focused on the trophy and not on the hunt. 

(Mike T)

Action Point

We can learn a lot about life through our hunting experiences. A week later, I was fortunate to get a second chance (fourth chance) at the trophy eight- point. This time my focus was clear and right on target. The result was victory and redemption. 

What is your life focus? Are you serving two masters? 

Jesus Christ says it best, "You cannot serve both God and money."

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Make sure you have more than two arrows in your quiver. You never know how many opportunities you may get. Who knows, it may even be with the same animal.

March 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . See What They Teach You (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Genesis 3:1-5

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden? ' " And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.' " Then the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die.  For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." (NKJV)

Thoughts

The story of the fall of man is just one of the many times individuals in the Old Testament have sought out "God Status." There are other examples of God's creation seeking to be just like Him, such as Cain deciding who lives and who dies, Lamech who chose to change the rules of marriage, Nimrod and others seeking to be as powerful as a god, and a group of people who had a lame-brain idea to build a tower in an attempt to literally reach the level of "God Status."

In what ways do we try to become like God or take His place? 

(Michael T)

Action Point

How many times do we try to set up our own rules, create our own timelines, and make demands for how our life is supposed to play out? Do we try to take matters into our own hands? Do we try to become men or women of power? Do we dictate to God, like Cain, what is an acceptable sacrifice? 

If anything mentioned here hits home, confess your sins to the one and only true God, and seek His forgiveness for attempting to claim "God Status."

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Make a special effort to take your children out into the woods or the field with you. If you do not have children, see if you can borrow one or become part of a mentoring program. Wait just a minute before you take off! Don't be tempted to teach them all of your tricks instead passively engage and see what they teach you about hunting or maybe life. 

 

March 1, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Nice Bass (Ron M)

Bible Study Verses

1 Samuel 17:38-40

So Saul clothed David with his armor, and he put a bronze helmet on his head; he also clothed him with a coat of mail. David fastened his sword to his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. And David said to Saul, "I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them." So David took them off. Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag, in a pouch which he had, and his sling was in his hand. And he drew near to the Philistine. (NKJV)

Thoughts

I think everybody who knows anything about David could finish this story. David accomplishes the improbable and defeats the Philistine giant, over nine feet tall, with a single stone hurled from his slingshot with God's divine help. 

David stayed true to who he was--a shepherd who was used to defending his sheep from attack by bears and lions with simple weapons. He didn't pretend to be somebody that he was not and the Lord blessed him in his life.

I used to be one of those anglers that had the patches, hats, decals, and all the other stuff that fishing tackle companies pass out to anglers. It's a good deal for these companies to get free advertising on anglers walking around. I still have hats and T-shirts with fishing logos emblazoned on them. I think they look great and still wear some of them. 

(Tom B)

Action Point

There is nothing wrong with fishing tackle companies using promotional advertisements that picture anglers wearing the advertised items. The trouble comes when anglers try to assume the identity of someone they are not by wearing all these patches and clothing. Pride tends to override who they really are and, sometimes, even their common sense. 

I have seen grown men walk the aisles of large fishing tackle showrooms wearing shirts emblazoned with all kinds of emblem of fishing tackle manufacturers. These fellows were not professional anglers, but wannabes. They even talked the talk of their favorite fishing hero.

Be true to yourself as David was. If the armor doesn't fit and  hinders the real you, don't wear it.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

I have a collection of hats that different boat and fishing tackle companies have given me. I like some of the hats more than others because of the way they fit or look. I keep an extra hat in my truck so I will have it when I need it to keep the sun out of my eyes. Keeping a spare hat in your truck or boat can be a blessing when you forget to bring one or if it's blown off and lost on a fast run across the lake or bay.