April 20, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Save By Planning (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 90:12

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (NIV 1984)

Thoughts

What a powerful verse for the days in which we live. When I read Psalm 90, this verse really came back to me again and again, as if God were working overtime to get His point across.

We are all concerned with the financial situation of the world. For many, it is more than concern; it's downright struggle to make the paycheck stretch to meet all of our obligations. The angler and hunter has to consider the cost of gas to fuel up the truck, boat, RV, or ATV to do what before may have been a "no-brainer". 

Before the steady climb of fuel prices, we may never have thought about how much the gas pump registered. We just filled up, thinking instead about what joy we were going to experience on the upcoming trip afield or afloat. Some outdoor enthusiasts may even have had to take on a second job to help accomplish the usual tasks of living, much less their outdoor pursuits. 

(Tom B)

Action Point

At first glance one might think this is a doom and gloom comment on today. Look again at the quoted scripture: Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

There is nothing pessimistic at all about what Moses is saying in this verse. There is supercharged power here. 

The answer to today's problems lies right in front of our eyes. Use each day the Lord gives us to dwell on what is aright---what is right and good. Daily, ask for His wisdom through study and meditation on his Word; pray and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in our walk. If we give Him half as much time as we might be spending on worrying about the future, we are guaranteed to receive insights, wisdom, in how to face today's challenges.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Plan the area on the lake or bay where you want to spend the day fishing before you leave the driveway of your house. Locate and use boat ramps close to or in that area. By doing this simple pre-planning, you will be saving fuel in both your boat and towing vehicle.

April 19, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Many Of Us Have Seen . . . (WDFW)

Bible Study Verses

Luke 21:34-36 

"But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man." (NKJV)

Thoughts 

I had been sitting near the water tank for a few hours, with a cow elk tag in my backpack. Nothing had come in and darkness was near. As I grew tired and my senses seemed to dull, I suddenly detected the unmistakable smell of elk. It hit me in the face like a Mike Tyson upper cut, but I could see nothing. 

For several minutes I searched the areas in my line of vision, nothing in front of me and nothing to the sides of me. It must be behind me I thought. After fifteen minutes of waiting and the sun setting, I decided I needed to turn to see if it was behind me, even at the risk of alerting it to my presence. Slowly I turned and there it was, a large bull elk standing 20 feet behind at the edge of the tree line. 

Fortunately he hadn't seen me. For the next twenty minutes he stood motionless. With an extreme amount of patience and diligence, he slowly scanned the area for danger. His head moved so slow as to be undetectable, until I noticed his antlers where now facing a different direction. He continued this for the better part of an hour and well into the darkness.

(Brett M)

Action Point 

Jesus tells us to look at the fig tree. When the leaves begin to change colors we know that the season is beginning to change. He says that we will be able to recognize the season of His return in the same way. We will not know the day or time. But, we will know the season!!! 

Many of the signs He tells us to look for are all around us. Many believe we are in the season of the end times. Whether we are or not, Jesus instructs us to be watchful. We are to be like that elk and diligently watch out for the signs and dangers, to "look to the heavens" for His return. 

Many of us have seen the surprise when an animal steps into our line of sight during hunting season. Do not let that day take you by "complete surprise."

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

During rain or snowy weather place a small piece of black electrical tape over the tip of your muzzle. It will keep the moisture out of your barrel and will easily give way when you take your shot.

April 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . My Two Best Friends Were Gone (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Luke 15:32

" "It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.' " (NKJV)

Thoughts

Before our children were born my wife and I had two best friends, our dogs. On one occasion, I wanted to go on a short camping trip, but my wife's work schedule would not permit her to go. So I packed up the truck with the necessary supplies, sleeping bag, tent, our two dogs, and left for the mountains. When I arrived, I quickly set up camp and decided to go for a hike with my dogs. 

We were about two miles from camp when we rounded a creek bed that fed a clearing in the forest. Standing in the middle of the clearing was a herd of twenty or so grazing elk. My dogs immediately began barking and running straight at the elk. 

The elk, startled and amazed, began to flee, pursued by my two dogs giving chase as I followed well behind trying to coax them back. It did not take long and the elk were out of site. So were my dogs. 

My stomach sank! The forest was deadly silent--no hooves hitting the ground, no more barking, just me and my pounding heart, alone. We were a hundred miles from home and my two best friends were lost!!! 

(Brett M)

Action Point

Jesus tells the parable in Luke of the prodigal son. Rather than wait until his father's death, he asked for his share of his father's wealth early. Then he proceeded to go and waste all his inheritance on wild living, only to return to his father, broken and desolate. His father welcomed him home with open arms and offered him the best of all that he had.

There have been times in my life when I have chosen to live outside of God's will, and He knew I would become lost. He watched me run away from Him, chasing something that I was not going to catch. 

I think about those times and wonder, "Did God feel the way I did in that forest when my dogs were lost and wandering? Did He feel His stomach sink? Did He feel His heartbeat?" 

I do know that He is always faithful--that each time I come back feeling broken and desolate, He has always been there with open arms, offering the best that He has and welcoming me home.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Many of us take our four-legged friends with us camping or hunting. Identification collars are not just for the park near home. One of the only hopes you may have if your pets become lost is that they are found my someone else, and that person has a way of contacting you.

April 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  Working With An Outfitter Provided Knowledge  (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 22:17

Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge. (NKJV)

Thoughts
Working with an outfitter during the summer provided me with knowledge of wrangling, packing and wilderness camping. Sitting around the campfire, listening to elk hunting stories gave me a little more practical knowledge. When there was silence around the campfire, I asked a lot of questions. 

It was time for my first elk hunt and for me to apply what I learned without someone looking over my shoulder. I hoped that my packs held together and that there would be no blowups.

We rode in approximately seven miles with no mishaps; set up camp, gathered firewood and hung up our meat pole. The next morning, the bulls were bugling. What an awesome sound!!! We managed to call in a nice bull. The range finder showed 241 yards. My partner put him down with one shot. We hunted a couple more days and saw some younger bulls. What a great experience!!!

(Tom L)

Action Point
Having knowledge in life's situations is very important. More important than having knowledge is applying God's wisdom to our lives. Read Proverbs, and compare the outcomes of those who follow God's wisdom to those who don't.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Have an experienced elk hunter help you with elk calls. Know what kind to buy, and when and how often to call. 

April 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Big Horn Sheep (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Colossians 3:12-14

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. 14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. (NKJV)

Thoughts
I recall a fascinating experience while bow hunting in Minnesota. I was in my deer stand when I heard quite a commotion in the woods. The leaves were rustling, twigs snapping, accompanied by clashing sounds. I came down from my stand and headed toward the commotion. 

Two big whitetail bucks, 14 and 10 points, had locked horns and were struggling to get apart. I tried to get close enough to get a shot, but they suddenly pulled apart and took off in the woods.

Even more fascinating are the bighorn sheep rams that have head-to-head combat. They rear back on their hind legs, then drop to all fours and charge each other at speeds greater than 20 mph. Fortunately, they have double-layered skulls shored with struts of bone for battle protection. They, also, have a massive tendon linking the skull and spine to help the head pivot and recoil from the blows. 

These displays of aggression are typical in the animal kingdom to prove dominance hierarchy. 

(Tom L)

Action Point
God made us in His image and likeness. We don't have to fight for a position in a hierarchy of creation. We have Christ as our role model of love. To be controlling, abusive and dominant in a marriage or in any other relationship, is not what God had in mind for us. "Clothe yourselves" with Christ-like attributes.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Come to the Wind River Range of Wyoming and see the largest herd of Bighorn Sheep in North America.

April 15, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Four Wheeling . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 

I call Heaven and Earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them." (NKJV)

 

Thoughts 

From the minute we wake up to the minute we go to sleep, our lives are full of choices: 

• Where to go. 
• What kind of mood to be in. 
• What to eat. 
• What to wear. (What to wear is an easy one for me--brown pants and tan shirt; uniform policy). 

Sometimes I am sent to the eastern side of the state to help with the opener of the east river deer season. On that side of the state there are roads every mile on every square section of land. Talk about choices! Every mile I drive I would have a major decision to make about which way to proceed. It is nice to get back home to fewer roads and fewer choices. 

(Ron T) 

Action Point 

When you read this verse it seems like a no-brainer. Who wouldn't want to choose life and blessings over death and curses? Let me think about it . . . I'll take life!!! 

Before I became a Christian, I made some bad choices--choices that would have brought death. I thank God for putting people in my life who could help me get on the right track; then the choices became clear to me. I still mess up at times; but when I do, the Holy Spirit lets me know about it, and I can change my choice. 

Go ahead . . . choose life!!! God will give you many years, and your children will appreciate it.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
In my hunting pack, I keep a small camouflage Bible. (I'm not worried about game spooking from the color of the bible, I just like camouflage.) It sure is handy to have while you're waiting in a blind or taking a lunch break. They are inexpensive and make great gifts for hunting buddies or people you meet on the trail.

April 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Custer Expedition (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Acts 3:6

Then Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk." (NKJV)

 

Thoughts

Hot summer days, a cool mountain stream and a couple of kids with gold pans. It is a great recipe to overcome the dog days of summer. 

A little panning and then it's off to see what kind of bugs live under the rocks, and, maybe, catch a few crawdads. 

We like to pan for gold in the same creek in the Black Hills where General Custer and his expedition of a thousand men discovered gold in 1874. Even though they didn't find much gold, it still sparked a gold rush that brought thousands of people to the hills hoping to get rich. 

(Ron T)

Action Point

Over the centuries gold has had great value in this world, but it cannot compare to the value of faith--faith is of greater worth than gold (1Peter 1:7). When Peter encountered the crippled man at the gate begging for gold or silver, Peter offered him something much better-- faith in Christ. Through faith in Christ, the man was healed. 

Faith is so important in our lives, for without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). We receive faith by hearing the Word of God, and it is through faith that we are saved. It is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8). Don't forget, in Heaven gold is just pavement.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Gold panning can be a lot of fun. If you are not sure where to start searching, tie a few feet of fishing line to a small lead sinker, tie a balloon to the other end and let it go in the stream. Watch to see where the weight settles, this is a good place to start panning.  

April 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Stop Starving and Feast (MQ)

Bible study Verses

I Peter 2:1-3

Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Spring, the time of new life in the woods, is right around the corner. That first warm spring day will start a chain reaction and within a few weeks we will see new growth on trees, flowers budding out and, in my area anyway, Whitetail Fawns.

One of the most beautiful things I've ever seen was a Whitetail fawn nursing its mother in the Spring. The little guy would thrash his tail around as he fed on that life-giving milk. Without it, he wouldn't survive. That choice sustenance was what he craved more than anything else. 

(Brian H)

Action Point

How often do you break open the word of God and just have a feast? I know I'm sounding "churchy" here, but go with me for a minute.

What if we ate a big meal twice on Sunday, once on Wednesday and never ate the rest of the week. Sound like a great diet plan to you? I didn't think so! 

But how often do we take that diet plan and apply it to our spiritual stomach? We go to church on Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night and never open the Bible the rest of the week. We call that being faithful. But, in truth, we are starving ourselves!

Peter says to DESIRE the pure milk of the Word. To add some humor, let's look at the Bible the way a starving man would look at a cheeseburger! We need to crave it, to desire it, to hold fast to it as our only source of sustenance. It is, in fact, the life line that feeds our immortal souls. Stop starving and feast on the pure milk of God's Word!!!

Sportsman's Tip of the Day

If you've never been one to keep a photo album of your adventures in the outdoors, start now. You'll be surprised how much you sit and reflect. Also, you're leaving a legacy that will be precious to your kids and grandkids.

April 12, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Deer Rub (Brian H)

Bible Study Verses

I Peter 1:13-16

Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He Who called you is Holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, "Be holy, for I am Holy." (NKJV)

Thoughts

I credit my Dad, first of all, and then my Uncle Bob, for forming my love of hunting. They would tell me how to do certain things differently in order to remain undetected by game. They would give me pointers and share tricks that they used to take game. But, that wasn't all. There were times when corrective action was needed. 

I remember one time in particular that my Dad and I were squirrel hunting in the oak timber of Northeast Arkansas. I was probably eight or nine years old and was carrying his old .410 shotgun. Any time I would stop to watch the woods around me, I would balance it on my shoulder without touching it with my hands. 

Dad gave me one warning and then promptly took the gun away from me when I did it again. 

(Brian H.)

Action Point

Dad wasn't being a hard-nose. On the contrary, he was teaching me. He was helping me to be more like him in the context of hunting. He wanted me to be a safe hunter, a respectful, careful, and honorable outdoorsman. 

Was it fun having the gun taken away from me? No. Did I learn something valuable from that? Oh yes! 

Now, spiritually speaking, we are to keep our minds clean and pure. The Word of God says to "gird up the loins of your mind." Brian's translation:  "Watch what you think about and what you let into your mind!!!" 

The second part is that we are to be obedient children. We are to do our best to obey God's Word and His direction for our lives. Then to take discipline in stride, knowing that He knows best!!!

Finally, the end product is that we are to be more like Him. You want a goal for your life? How about this one: "Be holy for I am holy," I Peter1:16 (NKJV).

Sportsman's Tip of the Day
If you're taking down your hunting stands for the season, take time to tighten up bolts, touch up paint, mend torn pads, check safety harnesses, and replace worn pieces before storing them. It will save you from doing this at the last minute this coming Fall.  

April 11, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .

Bible Study Verse

Romans 8:6

For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace. (NASB)

Thoughts

A big part of a great outdoor memory can be retained by a well taken photograph. When I intentionally put my camera on the correct settings, I am more likely to get the image that I wanted. Of course, the opposite is true. When I hastily take a picture without the correct settings, quite often this results in disappointment. 

(Tom H)

Action point

Consider your everyday life in the same light. If you don't go into each day with your mind set on Christ and the things of God's Spirit, there's a good chance your day can be summed up in futility. A futile life never produces a deep sense of peace or lasting fulfillment. 

Start out each day with the right mind set. As you read the scripture you can look for God's mind set on life and what brings Him pleasure. Ask God to intervene in your heart and mind so  that you will see things from His perspective. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When there is the potential for a trophy, there is nothing like capturing the memory right where it took place! Always have a good quality smaller camera handy where you can get to it quickly. By all means, make sure it is set properly with fresh batteries and film.

April 10, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . What They Both Had In Common Was The Appetite I Brought (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

John 6:26-27  

Jesus answered, "Very truly I tell you, you are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on Him God the Father has placed His seal of approval." (NIV)

Thoughts  

Under normal conditions, I like to eat. But after backpacking for a week, I would venture to say that my appetite might be considered voracious. The dried foods we pack suffice for the time being. But given the choice of eating pizza or a dried eggs and bacon combination, there's no comparison. 

There are three amazing meals that I can vividly remember in my life. Two of them occurred in the outdoors. What they both had in common was the appetite that I brought to the meal. 

When my family and I had finished hiking over 50 miles on Isle Royale, my appetite was through the roof. We had gotten into Windigo Harbor early and had to wait for the departing boat ride with a couple of hours to kill. 

There was a small camp store down at that end of the island that we meandered in to see what they had: fountain pop with ice, hot pizza by the slice, Klondike bars in the freezer, candy bars, hot dogs.   Initially, my wife and I told each of the kids they could get something to drink and grab a snack. Everyone was delighted!!!  As the eating commenced, we recognized how good everything tasted, and we ended up on a feeding binge. It wasn't like it was a fancy five course meal, but it all tasted so good because each of us brought a voracious appetite.

(Dave M)

Action Point

When we sit down to read God's word, I believe God wants us to read with an appetite. Reading it out of routine or guilt doesn't create a quality quiet time. 

When we read God's Word, we need to read it with an appetite, an expectancy that God is going to provide us what we need - our spiritual sustenance. If you have fallen into a rut with your reading of God's Word, ask Him to reveal Himself to you in a new and fresh way. Ask Him to give you a hunger for reading His Word.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

If you are taken a young sportsmen to the woods with you and you know they aren't going to last the hours of waiting needed for the hunt, make sure to pack them a pack of goodies or treats to hold their interest, books, markers, puzzles. Obviously it depends on what you're doing as to what you can get away with, but do whatever you can to make it an enjoyable trip for the young person. 

April 9, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . You have Come To Your Royal Position For Such A Time As This (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Esther 4:14

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (NIV)

Thoughts

A couple of years ago, my wife and I were contemplating where we wanted to go on vacation. We had always dreamt of taking our kids to the Canadian Rockies, but we weren't sure when exactly we should take the trip.  

Our oldest child, at the time, was going to be entering into high school the next fall and was planning on playing multiple sports. After talking it over, we decided that with the commitment that she/we were going to have to make to be involved in those sports, it was now or never for taking our family into the Rockies. 

After loads of planning and preparation, we were able to spend about three weeks traveling from northern Michigan to Glacier National Park and up to Jasper, Alberta before we had to start heading home. It was the best trip we have ever taken as a family!!! The scenery was beautiful, the memories made - priceless, and the timing for our family - perfect!

(Dave M)

Action Point

One of the things that God has really been teaching me the last couple of years is how important it is for things to be done in His timing. There are a lot of good things that we can be doing, but are we doing it in God's timing? 

As a rough paraphrase from a book I recently read: we can do the wrong thing at the wrong time and have bad results. We can do the right thing at the wrong time, and still have bad results. It is when we do the right thing at the right time that we receive the full blessing of God. 

If you are in the middle of waiting on God's timing for something, don't rush it! We live in a microwave society that wants everything immediately. God doesn't operate that way!!! He has a divine plan, and we need to pray for wisdom to be attuned to His timing. Often, the waiting period is more about what God needs to do to in your or my heart than anything else. 

So . . .  what do I do in the meantime? Be faithful while waiting!!! Read His Word and walk in faith knowing He has you in the Palm of His Hand!!! We are sons and daughters of the King!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When making plans traveling from state-to-state, make sure to see what the speed limits are as you travel and if there are any time changes along the way. These are the little things that can help make a trip go a bit more smoothly, especially if you are meeting people on the other end of your travels.

April 8, 2012

Today's Photograph . . . . He Is Not Here!  He Has Risen! (Raymond R)

Easter  Sunday  -  He's Alive !!!!!!!

Bible Study Verse

Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the Body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you, while He was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " Then they remembered His words. When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened. (NIV) 

Thoughts

Early rifle Elk hunt in northern Arizona with my son.  I hope you all don't get tired of hearing about this hunt, because I don't get tired of telling about it!   Steve and Dean had seen a good bull there the day before and they were hoping to help my son put his tag on this bad boy! 

As my camp host, Dan and I sat in the stillness on a heavily wooded bench overlooking a draw where elk were moving during early rifle season, the silence of the morning was broken by a bull bugling, then another, and followed by another.  This went on for several minutes as we quietly worked our way closer to one of the bulls. All the time I was really hoping to hear my son's .375 Remington Ultra Mag tell me that they had gotten on the bull from the day before. 

Suddenly, we heard a sound like an F-16 coming through the air, then the strike of the bullet, then the report from the rifle (we were about a quarter mile from the bull, maybe a half mile down range from my son)!  From the sound of the bullet, I knew it was his monster gun.  All went silent.  I wondered anxiously if his shot had hit the bull.  Then we heard the call on the radio from Steve to Dean.  The bull was down! 

Dan and I abandoned my hunt immediately and hustled over to my son and his bull.  I had heard the radio report of the kill, but I had to see this for myself! 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

"Then came Sunday, and the stone was rolled away..."  So goes the words of one of my favorite Easter songs.  The stone was rolled away!!!  The tomb was empty!!!  The angels inside the tomb announced to the women that Jesus had been raised from the dead, just as He had said He would be. 

Now, can you imagine being one of the disciples when the women returned from the grave?  What kind of nonsensical story is this?  The tomb is empty?  Jesus is alive?  Like Peter, I would have had to see this for myself. 

The disciples were blessed to actually see Jesus physically after the resurrection.  We don't get to.  However, when I examine the record, there is one compelling fact that makes me a believer in Christ.  That fact is the empty tomb.  In over 2000 years nobody has been able to produce the body of Jesus.  If they could, that would be the end of Christianity.  But they can't, because it isn't there!!! 

More than anything else, the empty tomb tells me that Jesus was raised from the dead by His Father, God, and is alive today and sitting at the right hand of the Father just as the Bible says. 

If I put my faith in Him, if I confess my sins to Him, He has promised that He will forgive me, that He will wash me clean with His sacrificial blood, and that He will prepare a place for me to spend eternity with Him. 

If you never have before, will you join me today, Easter Sunday 2012, and place your faith in Jesus?  Go to the Sportsmen's Devotional website.  After you get done drooling over the bull elk, click on "About Us," and then click on the "Sportsmans Devotional.com prayer."   There you will find a simple prayer of faith and you can become a child of the King, just as I am!!!

Sportsman's Tip of the Day 

There's an old adage, I think it was Robert Ruark who said it, "Always use enough gun."    It is good advice.  The .375 RUM with a 270 grain Barnes Triple Shock bullet we used for elk is big.  But, it did the job on my son's elk with a one shot kill at 460 yards.  Another gun with less power may not have provided the results we wanted. 

April 7, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Where The Disciples Went The Day After Is Pretty Much A Mystery (Tom H)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 26:31-32

Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:

" 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee." (NIV)

Thoughts
My friend, Dean, and I were hunting deer in the Harquahala Mountains west of Phoenix. We took off in separate directions that morning with the plan that we'd meet up in the afternoon or back at camp after dark. 

We didn't cross paths that afternoon, so I headed back to camp about sundown expecting to either find Dean there, or to have him come into camp shortly after dark. I settled in and waited to make dinner thinking that Dean would be there soon. 

Quite a bit of time went by and I decided to go ahead and eat. Now it was getting late and I was getting worried about Dean, not knowing if he was OK or not. All kinds of thoughts ran through my mind of him being hurt on the mountain and whether I should head out and try to find him, or perhaps fire signal shots to see if Dean answered. 

I did place a lantern on the top of the truck for a visual reference for Dean, and blew the horn a few times so he would know where the truck was located. Finally, I heard the familiar sound of Dean walking as he arrived back at camp. 

Seems he had killed a buck right at dark, and between field dressing it and hiking out to the truck, it took far more time than either of us had expected for him to get back. Needless to say, I was very relieved that my friend was safe. 

(Cliff S)

Action Point 

Where the disciples went during the trial and crucifixion of Jesus, and the day after, is pretty much a mystery.  I would suspect that they spent their time worrying about Jesus--with whom they were associated--and about their own personal safety.  

We do know that Peter and another unidentified disciple went to the trial (John 18:15-16).  We know that John was at the crucifixion (John 19:26-27).  But, beyond that, there isn't any record of where the disciples spent their time after the arrest of Jesus and prior to His resurrection (It is interesting to me that several women that are named by the writer were present at both the trial and the crucifixion).  

We can only speculate about the disciples' whereabouts on this in between day.  Perhaps a safe house in Jerusalem where they went to hide out?  Or, how about a home in another nearby village?  Did they go hide out in the hills?  Or, maybe they went to the Sea of Galilee to fish (my personal favorite of the options).   

We do know that they abandoned Jesus just as He predicted.  If they were anything like me and my Christian friends, there was plenty of speculative conversation going on between them regarding the events of Thursday and Friday.  Then, Sunday dawns....    

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Plan your hunt, hunt your plan. You should always know the whereabouts of your hunting partners. If they don't return to camp, you know where to start looking for them. Better yet, hunt together in pairs.  

 

April 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Many Are Disqualified . . . . (MQ)

He Covered Our Sins By Shedding His Blood On The Cross  Good Friday

Bible Study Verse

Luke 23:39-43  

One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom." Jesus answered him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise." (NIV)

Thoughts 

A few years back I was getting ready to apply for the elk hunt here in Arizona. We have a drawing system where the lucky hunters that receive tags are drawn at random by a computer generated lottery-type drawing. 

This particular year I received a call from a friend and he suggested that it would be nice to put in together and, hopefully, get to hunt together in the fall. He told me that he knew I was a more experienced elk hunter and that it would be good for him to have the opportunity to hunt with and learn from me. This sounded a little suspicious to me. 

So, I wondered as we talked why he had called and then it hit me. This friend knew that I had thirteen bonus points for the elk draw. That means that my name goes in the lottery fourteen times. But, if I have somebody else on the permit that, like him, has only one bonus point, the total number of points are averaged between us and our names go into the draw together only eight times. Good for him (but a little self serving), not so good for me. 

He started chuckling as he realized that I was on to him and that I had figured out his ploy. And, I politely declined his offer. Hey, he's a good friend, but not as good as an Arizona elk tag! 

(Cliff S) 

Action Point 

Three men were crucified that day on Calvary. One, the Son of God being crucified for the sins of all mankind. The other two, criminals being punished for their crimes. 

The attitudes of the two criminals are stark in contrast. The first shows his disbelief that Jesus is the Savior by demanding that Jesus prove His deity by saving Himself, and the criminal. This was a purely arrogant, unrepentant, unbelieving, and self-serving attitude that is characterized by the criminal's telling Jesus what He had to do to prove Himself, and by dictating his terms to God how to save him. 

The second criminal's words show the effect of a repentant heart. This man submits to and recognizes God, acknowledges and confesses his crimes (or sins), acknowledges Jesus' being the Christ, and then asks Jesus to remember him, or, in essence, to forgive him. 

Then we see Jesus' very simple response. The second criminal is forgiven and is promised to be with Jesus that day in paradise. The first receives neither his demands, nor his life. The second receives forgiveness and life eternal with Jesus. Two criminals (or sinners), one Savior, two very different results.

Sportsman's Tip of the Day
Always double and triple check you hunt applications. It's a good idea to have someone look them over for you, as well. Many are disqualified for simple mistakes. A required box left unchecked, the wrong amount of money, or forgetting to sign the application are all reasons you might not get into the draw.

April 5, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . This One Looked A Little Dim (Ruben C)

Bible Study Verses

II Kings 22:11-13, 22: 15-20  

When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes. He gave these orders to Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Akbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the secretary and Asaiah the king's attendant: "Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about what is written in this Book that has been found. Great is the LORD's anger that burns against us because those who have gone before us have not obeyed the words of this Book; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written there concerning us." 

She said to them, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: Tell the man who sent you to me, 'This is what the LORD says: I am going to bring disaster on this place and its people, according to everything written in the book the king of Judah has read. Because they have forsaken me and burned incense to other gods and aroused my anger by all the idols their hands have made, My anger will burn against this place and will not be quenched.' Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, 'This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people-that they would become a curse and be laid waste-and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I also have heard you, declares the LORD. Therefore I will gather you to your ancestors, and you will be buried in peace. Your eyes will not see all the disaster I am going to bring on this place.'" So they took her answer back to the king. (NIV)

Thoughts

I bought my first Leupold scope 2nd hand when I was 20 years old. It is still on my primary hunting rifle 27 years later. I have since bought 3 more scopes plus binoculars, I'm not likely to change brands easily. 

(Ruben C)

Action Point
Josiah became king when he was 8 years old. In the 18th year of his reign the Book of the Law, Deuteronomy, was found in the temple of Solomon when one of his high priests were renovating it. When the scriptures were read to King Josiah, he tore his robes and not only he, but all his people pledged themselves to God's Word. 

Wow!!! I just imagine most men, like me get set in their ways and making a radical change from our status quo is just not very likely.

Even Christians who follow Christ and God's Word in the Bible can have a difficult time walking the straight and narrow. But fortunately, He gives us grace and an opportunity to repent. King Josiah was a man whose example in repentance and change - when it was the best thing to do for God and the good of those around him - was exemplary of a true disciple. 

Do not be afraid of change when it comes to obedience of God's Word. John 13:17 promises, "Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them" (NIV).

Sportsman's Tip of the Day
I inherited an original Redfield scope a while back and I have looked through some very fine "Widefields" in my time. This one however looked a little dim, but I mounted it on my daughter's deer rifle anyway. Big mistake. I learned the hard way that in low light it was a disaster and have since replaced it with a new scope. Do not take equipment into the field if it is not 100% regardless if it's a name brand or not!

April 4, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  I Am Always Amazed When I Cast And Pull Out . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Mark 4:26-28

He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain-first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. (NIV)  

Thoughts

I have never been much of a farmer, but nevertheless, I really relate to this scripture. When I stock fingerling fish, such as trout or bass, in a small stock dam or mountain pond, and return to that water some time later, I am always amazed when I cast and pull out a 12 to 14 inch fish. I know it's supposed to work that way, but I'm amazed every time just the same!!! 

(Ron T)

Action Point

Whether you're scattering seeds or scattering fish, when the conditions are right, they are going to grow. It is the same for God's Word. 

I think of the seeds of truth planted in my own life before I became a Christian. They didn't seem that important at first; but over time I began to think about the words, understand their meaning, and how they applied to my life. 

I am so thankful to the laborers that God calls on to sow His Seed!!!

Now that I am a Christian, it is my job to share the Good News with others. "He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation," Mark 16:15 (NIV).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

It's important to keep your fly line clean so it will pass through the eyes of the rod easily. You can buy fly line cleaner at most sporting good stores or you can use Armor-all. I use it on my line. It's inexpensive, does a good job, and I usually keep a bottle in the garage.

April 3, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Beautiful Dangers . . . Grizzlies (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 46:1-3

God is our Refuge and Strength, an ever-present Help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (NIV)

 

Thoughts

The summer pack season ended with my heart full of thanksgiving. We prayed that God would watch over us and He answered our prayers. 

 

When we consider the dangers involved in mountain travel, horses, grizzly bears, and camping, it would be easy to focus too much on the negative possibilities of what might happen rather than the positive potential of what God can do. 

(Tom L)

Action Point
Focus on God's promises in His Word instead of worrying about the negative possibilities.

 

Spend time in prayer and He promises peace that is beyond our understanding. Philippians 4:6-7 assures, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus," (NIV). 

 

With God's help, you'll enjoy your trip even more.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Even if some of your hunting groups are not Christians, bring them together and pray for their safety. They will appreciate it. 

 

April 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Elk Country (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Zechariah.7:11-12

"But they refused to pay attention; stubbornly they turned their backs and covered their ears. They made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the LORD Almighty had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets. So the LORD Almighty was very angry.  (NIV)

Thoughts

Animal communication is fascinating. The turkey gobbles for a mating call or if alarmed by the sound of an owl. They yelp for gathering, cluck to assemble, or to alarm the chicks or other hens. When they are content, they sometimes make a purring sound.

The elk uses a bugle to call cows or challenge another bull. A cow uses a mew to call other cows or calves. Their bark or stomps are warning calls. It is critical for animals to hear and respond to the communication. 

(Tom L)

Action Point

God uses His Word and situations in our lives to communicate with us. We must hear and respond to His communication. 

 

Study the Word and live by it. It is critical to our walk and to our relationship with God.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When elk hunting, be at your hunting location prior to daylight. Don't spend daylight hours walking through the woods. You could push them out of the area.

April 1, 2012    Today's Photograph . . . . Palm Canyon, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, AZ (MQ)

Palm Sunday      Bible Study Verses Matthew 21:4-6 All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying:  "Tell the daughter of Zion, "Behold, your King is coming to you, lowly, and sitting on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.' " So the disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them. They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their clothes on them, and set Him on them. And a very great multitude spread their clothes on the road; others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying:  "Hosanna to the Son of David! 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' "Hosanna in the highest!" (NKJV) Thoughts A friend and I hiked up the remote Palm Canyon in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge to photograph the California fan palms tucked away within this narrow deep canyon. While hiking the palms drew my memories to past Palm Sundays.  (Mark Q) Action Point Palm Sunday is the day we remember Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem just one week before His resurrection that the prophet Zechariah depicted. "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey," Zachariah 9:9 (NKJV).  Note, He rode in on the unbroken donkey colt that was as gentle and reverent as a lamb. People were everywhere and the donkey was obedient. That in itself was a miracle! He is the Master of all!!! Today we celebrate this predicted fulfilled event and refer to it as Palm Sunday because of the Palm branches that were laid on the road by the worshiping crowd as Jesus rode the unbroken donkey into Jerusalem. But, the same crowds that were shouting Hosanna just 5 days later would shout, "Crucify Him!"   Do each of us honestly reflect back on these events? Do we take a week out of the year to think about it? I encourage you this year to remember what was given freely at such a great price to you and to all mankind this coming week. Whether it's taking a special hike into Palm Canyon or just going to spend time in the outdoors to be still and to reflect on this upcoming week's celebrations.     Sportsmen's Tip of the Day In a pinch water through condensation can be collected from a palm frond hanging on a palm tree. Tie a plastic bag around the frond completely encasing the leaf. As the water collects, empty the bag into a water container and retie to the frond to collect more.