May 22, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Black Bear Track (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ephesians 5:25  

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (NIV)

Thoughts 

When visiting a friend at his home, I noticed a sign hanging next to his game trophies which read:

WE INTERRUPT THIS MARRIAGE FOR THE HUNTING SEASON.

Is this a rut into which sportsmen tend to fall? 

I've found that I must maintain a balance. Our scripture verse tells us to have a sacrificial love for our wives. Philippians 2:44 instructs, "Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others," (NIV). 

Do we consider the needs and interests of our wives and children who don't hunt? As the spiritual head of the family, it is important to set an example and have our priorities in order. 

(Tom L) 

Action Point 

Instead of scheduling back-to-back hunting weekends from September through December, meet with your family and plan some activities together.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When you are hunting on the Lord's Day, take time before you leave to read a devotional and have prayer time. 

May 21, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Taste and See (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 42:1

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. (NIV) 

Thoughts

I was in trouble. It was hot and I was so thirsty. My water jug had been empty for several hours. I had taken the opportunity that August afternoon to scout some public land near my home in hopes of finding a good October bow hunting location. I figured that I could find my way around easily enough so I didn't bother to dig out my compass or my GPS. 

As the storm clouds began to gather, I didn't feel that I could take another step. I knew that I was getting close to heat stroke and would have given everything I had for a cool drink of water. When the storm finally brought rain, the refreshing coolness left me speechless. I can't tell you how happy I was when I found the trail that led back to my truck.

(Brian H)

Action Point

That's how God wants us to want Him!!! He wants us to be so thirsty for Him that nothing short of a refreshing encounter will suffice. He wants us to remember the truth: that without Him, we will perish both physically and spiritually.

Do you know Him? If you do, then do you desire Him above all other things? Do you feel that pang of thirst in your soul? Only God can fill that. Run to Him like a deer to a stream or a lost hunter to a water source. Taste and see that He is wholly good and perfect. Then submerge yourself in His waters and be refreshed

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Summertime rain may stop you from doing a lot of things outside, but it's a great time to take inventory of your hunting gear. Mend holes in your pants, replace buttons on shirts, throw out gear that is no good, and make a list of things that you will need before opening day. Use rainy days to your advantage!

May 20, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Fishing For The Day (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 19:21-22

"If you want to give it all you've got," Jesus replied, "go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me." That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crest-fallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn't bear to let go. (MSG)

Thoughts
It was a good kind of tired. The cooler was so full of big crappie and bluegill bream that water squished out when we closed the lid. 

My thumb was sore from taking fish off of the hook. We refer to that as "crappie finger." 

We had been drifting a small 1/32 ounce blue and sparkle jig around the Cyprus knees in the oxbow waters of the lower White River with the fish cooperating! There's nothing quite like enticing a nice keeper to bite a little rubber jig! 

(Brian H)

Action Point
When we stop to think about it, our entire outdoor lifestyle is built around fooling game. We use calls and scents for hunting and we use realistic looking plastic bait for fishing. It works!

   

Our world is full of fakes. These are the pretenders that have their own agenda and really don't care about God's work. You know the type. They look very spiritual on the outside, but on the inside they are full of corruption, sin, and destruction. Cross one of these deceivers and it's war!!!

In our passage, the young ruler was asking the questions that made him look spiritual. But when Jesus asked him to act on it, he walked away. 

Friends, keep a sharp eye out for imitations. God is the real deal and so are His people. Don't fall for any substitute when it comes to a relationship with God. 

Put a careful distance between yourself and a pretender. Pray for them and try to lead them to a right relationship with God, but keep your distance lest you be snared.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Summer tasks:  Keep your game calls in a temperature controlled environment. Make sure your decoys are touched up to look as realistic as possible. Put a drop of baby oil and a dusting of salt on rubber jigs to help prevent melting. Make sure you're ready to imitate when it's time to hit the woods or the water.   

  

May 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Antler Shed (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Romans 6:3-5 

Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection. (NKJV)

Thoughts 

For the life of me I could not get a single turkey to respond to my crow call. At 9 pm, I was traveling along the edge of a rim attempting to elicit a shock gobble from a roosting tom in the ponderosa pines below me. Nothing. 

The next morning before sunrise, I tried again. Nothing. I hunted until the afternoon and then decided to take a break. It was early May in the high country so I decided to go to a different area and look for shed antlers. 

Every year in the late spring antlered animals drop them. It is legal to collect these "sheds" as long as they have cleanly dropped from the animal and are not the result of some type of kill, whether it be human or animal. 

In the summer the animals begin to grow new, often larger antlers, which come to their full realization in the fall, just in time for hunting season. The shed antlers remain on the forest floor waiting to adorn someone's fireplace mantel or to be eaten by the abundance of rodents for the high calcium content. 

(Brett M) 

Action Point 

Some of the sheds I found had broken tines. some were small, and one was fairly disfigured. These were nothing that any self-respecting elk would want adorning his majestic body. Fortunately, every one of the elk is able to shed those old antlers and start anew each year.

Baptism symbolizes our bodies being buried under the water only to be resurrected in a new life with Christ Jesus. Our old sinful, selfish life is dead and we are given new life. 

Paul taught the Galatians that baptism was a spiritual growing up. No longer were you an immature believer, but on the path to true spiritual maturity. In Galatians 3:25-27 Paul writes, "But now you have arrived at your destination: By faith in Christ you are in direct relationship with God. Your baptism in Christ was not just washing you up for a fresh start. It also involved dressing you in an adult faith wardrobe-Christ's life, the fulfillment of God's original promise," (The Message).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Antler sheds can be found in many different locations. A few common ones are near fence lines, in draws, or in thick cover. They can be found wherever elk are found. The key is this, you need to look for them where the elk were when they dropped. In many areas that means searching in their winter range, not in their summer range.

May 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . They Adapt and Change (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ephesians 5:28-29

So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. (NKJV)

Thoughts 

Drought has been hitting Arizona for the last ten years now. Water tanks are dried up, reservoirs are low, and trees and wildlife are showing the effects.

Recently a wild fire moved through an area called Mingus Mountain in northern AZ. A friend of mine was the base camp manager for the forest service firefighters' camp. Near the camp on the main highway, which had been closed, was a large, portable water trough that the helicopters used to retrieve water in order to drop on the fire. 

As he approached the trough in the dimly lit morning he saw something unusual, a black mass near the trough. Blurry eyed and still a little sleepy he approached the trough and the black mass came into focus. It was actually two large bears standing on their rear feet with their front paws on the edge of the trough getting a much needed drink. 

(Brett M) 

Action Point 

Wildlife is resourceful. When they are unable to meet their needs in the traditional ways, they adapt and change. We as humans are, also, very resourceful and adaptable. We have certain needs and we will typically make adaptations to meet those needs, often times in self-destructive ways.

Many of us are married and have made a vow to seek certain needs only from our spouses. Most commonly it is sex that we seek from our spouse. But, what about the other needs that should only be found in our spouse. Men are you meeting all of the needs of your wives? Do you love her "as your own body?" Neither spouse should have to go to a wayward trough to seek what they need.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Old burned areas of the forest are great places to hunt. Increased sunlight and fresh vegetation are keys. Pay attention to your hunting area during wildfire season, note if and where an area may have burned and then scout that in future hunting trips. 

May 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Sick At Heat (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

II Chronicles 15:7

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." (NIV)

Thoughts

Sick at heart describes my emotion. Ready to quit hunting with a bow was my attitude. He was almost under the stand when I released the arrow from my compound bow. I had stopped him with a bleat, and apparently he had stopped and looked up at me. 

The arrow took a path down his neck toward the vitals, but did not get deep enough to finish the job immediately. He ran away from me with the arrow prominently visible. 

Later I called for friends to come and help me trail him. There was good sign for a long way, but then it just stopped. The field was freshly harvested, so it had been easy to track him to a point where the trail seemed to disappear. Many have shared this frustration while hunting. 

I could not let it go. I went back and spoke with the land owners two days later. They gave some suggestions, so I widened my search. With God's help, I found him, a really nice nine-pointer. Though the meat had begun to spoil, and could not be utilized, I tagged the deer and was happy to have him. I was thankful that he had not suffered as I had imagined. My first archery trophy was my reward for not quitting. 

(Jack M)

Action Point

Maybe you are ready to quit. Don't quit, unless you are quitting a sinful pursuit!!! Especially don't stop doing what the Lord has given you to do!!! Persevere in life. Be faithful. 

Discouragement will come. Our ancient enemy, Satan, will make sure that happens. The urge or the temptation to give in or give up will present itself to all of us at times. Life is a journey, not a destination!!! 

Eternal life in Heaven with God--knowing Him--is the goal and destination for all who believe (John 17:3). God promises a reward for all who will keep going and not give up. The scriptures remind us:  "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"- the things God has prepared for those who love Him," I Corinthians 2:9b (NIV). The reward will be worth it!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Wait for a sufficient time period before tracking a wounded big game animal. Develop your tracking and trailing skills. Trail with persistence. There are lights available to use at night which reveal blood. Some new tools detect body heat of a wounded animal. It is ethical hunting to do all you can reasonably do to recover wounded game.

May 15, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . And Sprinted Away . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses
Judges 13:25

And the Spirit of the Lord began to move upon him at Mahaneh Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol. 

Judges 14:19

Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, and he went down to Ashkelon and killed thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave the changes of clothing to those who had explained the riddle. So his anger was aroused, and he went back up to his father's house. 

Judges 16:20

And she said, "The Philistines are upon you, Samson!" So he awoke from his sleep, and said, "I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!" But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. (NKJV)

Thoughts
What went wrong? This magnificent buck was coming in like he was on a string. But suddenly, he looked directly in my direction, spun like a top and sprinted away! 

I was hugely disappointed. Everything seemed to be just right, but the outcome was deeply disappointing. 

It was the wind that carried my scent and alerted the deer. I did not realize it until too late. 

(Jack M)

Action Point
Samson was the world's strongest man! The scriptures confirm it. His feats are listed all through Judges 14-16. The speed at which he moved and the raw power of his body were amazing and supernatural. 

But, Samson thought too highly of himself. Pride got in the way. He let his physical appetites control his life. He forgot that his strength came from God. His failure reminded him of his true source of strength.

Our failures and our struggles should remind us that we are dependent upon God. It is the Holy Spirit of God who gives us the desire and the dynamic power to do the will of God (Philippians 2:13).  

If you sense something is wrong in life, remember that you were created for a special love relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. If you have not received Him as Lord, do so. If you have gotten away from that relationship, repent and return to Him. Accept the forgiveness He offers, and enjoy again the presence and the power of the Almighty.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Human odor can reveal your presence to many wild animals. Their sense of smell is vastly superior to ours. Explore and learn to use appropriate odor and scent control for better success afield.

M ay 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Temple B'Nai Israel in Olean, NY Listed On The National Register Of Historical Places (NPS)

Happy   Birthday   Israel !!! 64th   Anniversary   of   Israel's   Rebirth

  

Bible Study Verse

Genesis 12:3

I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." (NKJV)

Thoughts

At the end of World War II the new United Nations on November 29, 1947 proposed to segregate Palestine into two states, Arab and Jewish. The Jews accepted while the Arabs rejected.

On May 14, 1948 surviving against all odds with God's help  David Ben Gurion, spokesman for the Jewish People's Council  publicly established the State of Israel. Israel officially became a country when the mandatory British reign ended at midnight on May 15, 1948. The United States and the USSR both recognized the new State of Israel and Israel was admitted into the United Nations as a full member.

The next day the Arabs from Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Transjordan, and Lebanon equipped with the latest British and French fighters, bombers, tanks, heavy artillery, bombs and ammunition attacked.   Israel had no tanks, no military planes, no artillery, and only 10,000 rifles.

Israel obtained military equipment leftover from World War II at extremely high prices  and secretly shipped them in. Pilots and crew members died while moving the desperately needed defense weapons into the tiny country. Approximately 3600 Jewish and non-Jewish volunteers from 29 countries entered secretly and were immediately added to the new IDF, Israel Defense Force, army. They were known as the Machal.

January 7, 1949 the Arabs called for a cease fire and finally withdrew in defeat to God's chosen people. 

(JQ)

 

Action Point

As heirs to eternal life through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we all need to pray for God's chosen race the Jews and Israel. Psalms 122:6 tells us, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you," (NKJV). 

  

As Americans we need to stand for Israel and vote for and support those politicians who will also stand for America supporting Israel. Why? They are God's chosen that need Jesus their Messiah and Savior.

God promises blessings to those who bless His chosen. Great!!! Awesome!!! Anything from our loving Heavenly Father I welcome, especially His blessings.

Purpose to pray and to seek God's guidance for Israel and America daily. 

  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Anti-Semitism runs rampant throughout the world.  In the February 2012 Levitt Letter published by Zoa Levitt Ministries, states an  interesting, but puzzling fact: World Vision has been active in the Holy land since 1975 sponsoring children in the West Bank, Garza Strip, and East Jerusalem, but does not sponsor children in Israel. 

Educate yourself on Israel. The Levitt Letter can be read on line as well as the Jerusalem Post newspaper. Our freedom here grants us choices we take for granted. After reading both, you will have a long list of subjects to pray on Israel's behalf besides becoming more knowledgeable on just the medical breakthroughs Israel is responsible for. Their research on heart disease and Diabetes is amazing. They are working on a cure for Type I, juvenile diabetes, and are so close.

May 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . A Good Place To Start With Blessing Your Wife and Your Mother (MQ)

Happy   Mother's   Day

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 10:37-38

Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. (ESV)

  

Deuteronomy 5:16

" 'Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.' " (ESV)

 Mark 9:35

And He sat down and called the twelve. And He said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all." (ESV)  

Thoughts

Julia Ward Howe, the author of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, also planted the seed of Mother's Day in 1870 by her Mother's Day proclamation. 

Anna M Jarvis caught Howe's seed through her mother and May 10, 1908 became the first official Mother's day celebrated in the Andrew's Methodist Church in Grafton, WV and also in another church in Philadelphia, PA. The day drew 407 participants. Anne's mother had taught Sunday School within that church for over 20 years which was the determining factor in location.  Anna began the honored tradition of  two white carnations, her mother's favorite flower, given to each Mother. Customary practice is white flowers to a Mother if her mother is deceased or red flowers to be given if her mother is still alive.

Inspired by  the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) request, US Senator Elmer Burkett proposed Mother's Day as a national holiday.  In spite of defeat by 1909, forty-six states were holding Mother's Day services including parts of Canada and Mexico. In 1914 President Woodrow Wilson followed declaring the 2nd Sunday of May into the nationally observed Mother's Day.

Despite her continued objections on the holiday's exploitation by the floral industry. Anna Jarvis died in 1948, blind, poor and childless. She never knew that The Florist's Exchange  had anonymously paid for her care till death.  Today more than 70 countries honor their Mothers on their appointed  Mother's Days.

(JQ)

Action Point

Balance is everything in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. God first before family. Only those Mothers not sold out to Christ would want to be before Christ or a child's spouse in the life of her child. 

Then we must honor our Mothers. Not because they deserve it, as most do, but because God  tells us to in His Word to honor our parents. 

Our actions should always speak louder than our words!!! What do your actions shout in the treatment of your wife, the Mother of your children, and your Mother? 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Take this day to bless Mothers in your life. Make this day a beautiful memory. Remember a servant's attitude is our altitude within our obedience to Jesus Christ. God bless each of you!!!

 

May 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Chases Us, Trees Us, And Backs Us Into A Corner (MT GOV)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 68:20

Our God is a God Who sets us free. The way out of death belongs to God the Lord. (NLV) 

Thoughts

Beautiful Fall nights filled with the music of hounds on the chase is an attractive part of hunting the raccoon. It is a popular sport in many places.

My father was an avid coon hunter. His age now prevents his participation in the hunt, but his heart is still there. He had many different hounds over the years, often several at the same time.

The dogs would pick up the scent of the raccoons and trail them till they were pushed up a tree from which they could not escape. There, the dogs would "tree bark" until the hunters had time to come to that location and harvest the raccoon for its fur. Many years, my dad made substantial income from his hobby.

I often tagged along and learned to enjoy and appreciate the bawling of the hounds and the excitement of the chase. I am sure it was not so exciting to the raccoon. Unfortunately, the hunt was successful when the raccoon was killed and his fur preserved for the market.

(Jack M)

Action Point

Sin is like the hounds that hunt the raccoon. It chases us, trees us, and backs us into a corner that leads to our death, often physically as well as spiritually (Proverbs 14:12). Perhaps worse is the ripple effect of sin upon the lives of those around us. Sin is no discriminator. Jesus died and rose again, conquering sin, death and hell (Romans 4:25).

Accepting Him by faith as Savior and Lord will deliver us from spiritual death and give us the gift of eternal life. Following His ways will keep us from physical death, help us avoid danger so that we can enjoy abundant life with Him.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you hunt with animals, especially with dogs, be regular in caring for them. Make sure they are tested first, then administer approved heart worm medication to prevent the loss of these prized partners in the hunt. Regular veterinary care is a must to be a responsible dog owner.

May 11, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Angel Of The Lord Encamps . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 34:4-7

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.  (NIV)

Thoughts

There's an old Indian story about a boy who must complete an ordeal in order to be considered a man. The boy's father takes him deep into the forest and has him sit down in a clearing. The father then places a blindfold on the boy. The boy must sit in the clearing, alone and blindfolded, until sunup in order to prove that he can conquer his fears and be considered a man. 

As night falls, the boy hears many sounds; most are familiar, but now alarming, because of being alone and blindfolded. As the night passes and he hears wild animals nearby and other frightening sounds, his fears mount; and he struggles not to tear the blindfold from his face.

Finally, the sun comes up and he can remove the blindfold; whereupon he sees his father who has been sitting nearby all night, silently protecting him from anything that might harm him.

(Cliff S)

Action Point

God is there for us, always. No matter how frightening our circumstances may be, He is watching over us. He has His angels ready to step in and deliver us from Satan and anything harmful that comes our way.

Trust God!!! Stand firm!!! Be brave!!! Be strong!!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Being alone in the forest after dark can be frightening. Plan your hunt so that you will be back at your vehicle or camp prior to dark. Better yet, rendezvous with your hunting partner and stay together as the sun goes down.

May 10, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Gray Wolf, Canis Lupus (FWS)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 14:12

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.  (NIV)

Thoughts

An Eskimo technique described for hunting wolves is to coat the blade of a knife with blood and let it freeze. This process is repeated several times until the blade of the knife is completely coated and appears harmless. The knife is then secured in the ground, ice, or some other stable place with the blade exposed. 

When the wolf finds the knife, he will begin licking the exposed blade with increasing passion as he tastes the thawing blood. However, as he gets more and more excited, the wolf doesn't realize that the blade of the knife is slicing his tongue and that it is his own blood that he now tastes. Eventually, the wolf will bleed to death by his own doing.

So it is with sin in our lives, particularly addictive sins-- alcohol, drugs, sex, pornographic materials, gambling, or any other enticement that captures us in its grip of slavery. It begins slowly, perhaps with an occasional drink or visit to an inappropriate website. 

At the time, it seems okay; and we don't believe that we could become a victim. But, Solomon warns us here that we must always be vigilant and not allow Satan to drag us into behaviors that will eventually lead to our destruction. 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Protect yourself from addictive behaviors. Learn how to avoid those places and things where you know you have a weakness. Pray and admit your weakness to God. Ask for His strength and protection from whatever brings you down. 

If you're all ready involved with some of these sins, get help. Go to your pastor, another Christian friend you trust, or a qualified Christian counselor who can help you break Satan's hold on you. Don't wait; do it now!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Keep your knives sharp and the blade protected. My Dad always said, "You'll hurt yourself worse with a dull knife than a sharp one." He was right!

A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen

May 9, 2012

Today's Photograph . . . . We Are To Imitate Christ (Donny N)

Bible Study Verse

Philippians 2:1-4

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (NIV) 

Thoughts

• What kind of hunting partners have we been? 
• Have we imitated Christ's humility or do we brag about our hunting abilities? 
• Have we criticized or encouraged when a friend misses an easy shot? 
• When you and a partner shoot simultaneously and down an upland bird, do you claim it or do you congratulate your partner for a nice shot? 
• When there are different opinions about hunting strategies, do we always get our way? 
• Do we criticize our partner when his dog is out of control and flushes birds out of range? 

(Tom L)

Action Point

In all these opportunities we are called to have attitudes like those of Christ. Paul's writings to the Philippians suggest that we imitate Christ in His humility, compassion, love, and unselfishness.

There are times when we are hunting that we might get discouraged. This is when we need a friend to edify and encourage us.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When making plans and discussing strategies, always propose a question to your partners. Ask them how they feel about an idea rather than telling them what they are going to do.

May 8, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . When Deer Are On Road Shoulders (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Corinthians 8:1-4

And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people. (NIV) 

 

Thoughts

My wife and I were driving in the country, approximately ten miles from home. A car was stopped along the side of the road with its lights on; and the passengers were standing outside the vehicle. We stopped to offer assistance. The car had hit a deer, but was still drivable.

The deer was apparently struck in the head. The driver did not want the deer; so I field dressed it, called the conservation officer to report the incident, and get the necessary paperwork. We brought the deer home and skinned it. 

The conservation officer came to the house, thanked us for taking care of the deer, and decided to take it to another person. Needless to say, I was disappointed. 

A couple of weeks later, the officer stopped at our house to tell us that he had taken the deer to an older gentleman who couldn't hunt and hadn't eaten venison for a number of years. When the gentleman saw the deer, he was so happy that he shed some tears. When I heard the story, I was truly blessed. This man had many meals to be truly thankful for.  

This episode in my life prompted me to offer wild game to needy older people in our church. 

(Tom L)

Action Point

Our wild game belongs to God. It is a privilege to hunt and eat His creation. Share God's gifts with the needy and those who cannot hunt. Let God's grace overflow in your heart.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

During the Spring and Fall when deer are on the shoulders of the roads, travel between 40 and 45 MPH. You will have time to stop and avoid extensive damage to your vehicle.

May 7, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Big Horn Sheep (Ruben C)

Bible Study Verses

Luke 14:28-30

"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, 'This person began to build and wasn't able to finish.' (NIV)

Thoughts

Suppose you decide to go on a Sonoran mule deer hunt. You pay the non-refundable guide fees a year in advance. Then two weeks before you are to depart on the hunt of your lifetime, you realize the airfare is about $2,000 more than your budget can withstand. You can't go. The hunt is cancelled. When asked why you didn't go, what will you say? What will others think? Sounds silly doesn't it?

"I would never plan a guided deer hunt and not consider all aspects before laying my hard earned money down," you say.

Your spiritual walk should be taken no less seriously. 

(Ruben C)

Action Point

We cannot take on the responsibility of being a disciple of Jesus without considering the difficulties we will encounter.

 

"But if anyone obeys His word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did," I John 2:5-6 (NIV). 

This is a hard-hitting scripture not often considered. Regardless of your preferred Bible version, each reads similarly: If we say we abide in Him, we ought to also walk as He walked. And if we do, we can count on the power of God to support us, as the world and Hell will certainly be against us!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

I am a huge advocate of Public Lands hunting. I am not a trophy hunter, though I've shot many. (They made my record book!) There are many public lands in the Southwest that yield many trophy deer, elk, sheep annually. I just love to hunt; and I'll put my time into research and my money into the trip and tags when I feel that I can be satisfied with the best I am capable of on a particular hunt, even if I come home empty- handed. One out-of-state deer hunt yielded no deer, but revealed a premier elk hunting area that has given up three elk to my dad and me in subsequent years. Never a wasted trip is my motto!

.

Mat 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Not Everyone Who Buys A Rifle Or A Bow And Takes To The Field Becomes A Hunter (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Matthew 11:25

At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of Heaven and Earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. (NIV)

Thoughts

I took a new friend on an archery deer hunt with me and my hunting buddy years ago. He was a very intelligent sort and just out of the military. 

We were hunting in the desert that first day. When I spotted the herd of deer we were tracking several 100 yds ahead, I got my hunting buddy's attention. I gave him hand signals which indicated there was a big buck, a small buck, and a number of does. 

My friend just stared at me. "What was that all about?" he asked. I explained what I was doing, and he replied, "Well I learned all kinds of hand signals in the military, but I've never seen anything like that!" Even applying all his advanced analytical training, he never did catch on to our signals. 

(Ruben C)

Action Point

Not everyone who buys a rifle or bow and takes to the field becomes a hunter. It's much more than a dress rehearsal. Just because you're "out there" doesn't mean you're gonna "get it." Nature talks to all of us, but not everyone understands what's been said!

To whom does God reveal Himself?    . . .children, learners, the humble. 

I am so glad that the verse above indicates that His revelation doesn't have anything to do with IQ!!! It's really a matter of desire, isn't it? 

As a child who has a desire to know and is willing to be taught--we need to come to God with the heart of a child if we want to hear God speak to us. He reveals Himself to those who want to know Him!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Before walkie-talkies were something you could actually walk with, many of us used a lot of hand signals in the field. You could signal a buddy things like, "See you back in camp at noon." 3:00 pm would roll around and no buddy (pun intended) would show up in camp! Do you still have these experiences? I know a few who do! Get a set of FRS radios. Pick a model with at least 5 watts, with replaceable batteries. Use the lithium ion type for everything because they last almost forever. Is camo the best color for your radio? Not if you drop it in the woods!

May 5, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Heading Towards My Special Retreat With God (MQ)

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--physical, emotional, and spiritual. 

 

On these 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! And, 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.

May 4, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . There's no In-between On This One (Suzanne S)

Bible Study Verses

Joshua 24:14-15

"Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."  (NIV)

Thoughts

Choices.. We all have them to make, every day. When we're hunting, we have to make them moment-by-moment--which path to take, which trail to follow, which mountain to climb, where to camp, still hunt, or spot and stalk, which animal to kill? Choices are a part of the hunt.

Choices are also part of our spiritual life. Will we follow God, the one true God who has revealed Himself to us in the Bible and in His Son, Jesus; or will we allow ourselves to be lured off the trail and follow false gods? Teachings that make us to be our own god, or teachings that worship the creation rather than the Creator are examples of false gods. 

As you make your choice, research the teachings of Jesus. When you learn more and more about Him, it will be easy to choose the right path!!! 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Make your choice. There's no in-between on this one. Choose the Lord, and serve Him!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Study the topographic maps and wind patterns prior to hunting an area. These will help you in selecting the best areas to hunt, how to hunt them, and where you will be most likely to find animals.

May 3, 2012    Today's Photograph . . . . A Rare Sight Turkey Hen And Chicks (NPS)

National   Day   of   Prayer   Bible Study Verse I Peter 1:18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors. (NIV)    Thoughts I missed! I can't believe it! It is the first turkey I ever missed! I shot three times at a huge Merriam's longbeard (mature male turkey) at twelve yards. Afterwards, I was in the dumps. I just knew I would not get another chance. But three hours later, another longbeard appeared! After a little coaxing on the call from my friend and just a little from me, he came in, presented a target, and this time the shot was accurate. My friend who called him said, "You redeemed yourself with that shot." God had given me another chance to fill my tag. He is the God of the second chance! (Jack M) Action Point I missed in another area as well. We all do. We miss God's mark of holiness. That is the definition of sin, missing God's mark. "For the wages of sin is death"--the bad news--"but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord"--the rest of the story, Romans 6:23 (NIV). God offers a chance to be redeemed; and only HE would do that. He provided His Son as a substitute payment for our sin--mine and yours!!! Have you been redeemed? Has your sin been washed away? Will you enjoy eternal life with God? I received this offer of redemption as a gift from God when only six years old. He redeemed me. He forgave my sins. You may be redeemed by believing in Jesus as your Lord and Savior. He will redeem all who come to God by faith in Him. Redeemed!!! A second chance!!! That is a great feeling. I was happy and pleased to have the second chance at that gobbler; but I am even happier to have the redemption that results in everlasting life!!! Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Learn from the mistakes you make. Learn how to do it better next time. Go over the situation in your mind and mark well the lessons you can use when the opportunity presents itself again. In the field, every mistake may be turned into a learning experience.

May 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Where We Choose Not To Go Can Be Very Important  (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 56:13

For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.  (NIV)

Proverbs 6:28 

Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? (NIV)

 

Thoughts
Our feet are critically important to our enjoyment of the outdoors! During a typical day of upland bird hunting, one walks many miles. Hunting antelope or stalking big game may require miles of hiking up, down, around and over difficult and treacherous terrain. 

 

An army first sergeant told me, "Take care of your feet, and they will take care of you!" Then he gave specific instructions on how to do that. 

(Jack M)

Action Point
Take care of your feet. Choose carefully where you go. In the Bible, "feet" is often a word picture of what we do and where we go--a metaphor of our life style. 

 

Where we go, and what we choose to do is important. What we choose NOT TO DO may be more so!!! 

 

We cannot go to places, and involve ourselves in things that tarnish our reputation. Often these things endanger our character, and even our bodies. More importantly, we cannot do what will shame our Lord Jesus. A child's song says, "Oh be careful little feet where you go!" So true.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Take care of your feet! Carefully choose the route, the path, that you take. Carry clean socks on extended walks or stays in the field and change them often. Stop occasionally, take off your shoes to allow your feet to dry a bit; and carry a good foot powder to put on them. Buy quality boots or shoes, as well as socks. If your feet are comfortable and well cared for, you won't even notice them. But if they are not, it is all you will notice!

May 1, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Gambel Quail (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.  (NKJV)

Thoughts

Yesterday was a good day quail hunting, but it was a consolation for a trip the one we had planned earlier and missed. Sometimes things happen in life that mess up our plans. In my younger years, I would have had a hard time dealing with the disappointment.

More recently I have learned the lesson that everything that happens has a reason. It is just up to us to understand what God is allowing and why.

(Byron S)

Action Point

We all have plans that just get messed up for some reason. The car breaks down at the last minute and we can't go or a trip falls through, we have all experienced this. If we get frustrated and upset, we may miss the real reason for the change of plans.

Remember, we are not in control, even when we think we are. It's a good idea to consult God with our plans, keeping in mind who is really in charge.

If you have not talked with Him lately, He is there to listen to you. He truly wants to hear from you. Trust Him!!! He does have plans for your life!!! 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When planning a trip in advance, check your equipment. Make sure everything is in good working order, scope is sighted in, gun is clean and free of dirt, outboard motor starts when pulled, and fishing line and leaders are fresh and new. Any one of these can create havoc on your trip.