November 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Each Spiritual Gift Is Absolutely Necessary To Build Up and Strengthen The Church   (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verses

I Corinthians 12:22-27

On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (NIV)

Thoughts

We were fortunate again to be drawn in an antelope area for muzzle-loading and pistol. After shooting a nice buck antelope last year with my muzzle loader, I decided to hunt with my 44 mag with a 2X pistol scope. 

Both of my hunting partners shot nice bucks with the TC Encore 308 at over 250 yards. We ranged an antelope at 180 yards, a good distance for the 44 mag. 

I was fortunate to hit the antelope on the first shot. Because it wasn't a killing shot, I tried to shoot it again. In the process I tried to steady the barrel too far forward and the gases took off the tip of my thumb. A broken thumb nail and seven stitches later, the doctor put the tip back together.

(Tom L)

Action Point

My hunting accident illustrated a good point. With the tip of my thumb out of commission, the menial tasks of buttoning my shirt and pants were very difficult. 

 

In our scripture verse, Paul uses the human body as a metaphor. Just as all of our body parts are necessary and have a function, the church needs all of it members. Each spiritual gift is absolutely necessary to build up and strengthen the church. 

 

If you are not sure of what are your spiritual gifts, talk to your pastor about a class called Network. It is a great study and offers an assessment of your spiritual gifts. Most importantly, when you find out how you're gifted, use the gifts to serve God.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

The chamber pressure of some pistols can generate over 30,000 psi. The gases that come out between the barrel and cylinder on a revolver can do extensive damage. 

November 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Let's Give Those Trials To Him and He Will Give Us Peace   (Tom L)

Bible Study Verse

James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (NIV)

Thoughts
During the later part of the summer, the surface temperature in the mountain lakes of the Wind River Range reaches the low to mid 60s. Fly fishing depths of 10-14 feet require a full sink line to reach those depths. 

A friend of mine that I was fishing with had difficulty reaching those depths with sink tip line. My friend ordered some type III full sink line and was anxious to try out his new line. 

My friend filled his float tube with a compressor, place it in the back of the truck, and drove to a higher elevation lake. We paddled across the lake close to the inlet. 

My friend was very happy with the line after catching a couple nice Yellowstone Cutthroats. 

All of a sudden I heard what sounded like a shotgun blast. I turned around to see my friend swimming to shore. His tube exploded!!! He didn't lose any fly fishing equipment, but was a little cold, confused, and shook up.

Overfilling with a compressor, sunlight heating up the tube, and the change in elevation all contributed to the high pressure. 

(Tom L)

Action Point
As we know, life is full of trials. The questions are: 

How do we handle them? 

Do we allow God to work in us to develop character traits of endurance and patience? 

One thing we do know is that God is in control of everything in our lives. Let's give those trials to Him and He will give us Peace.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
To be sure you won't overfill your float tube, wait until you get to your destination. Use a hand pump or a 12V pump and top it off by using your mouth.

November 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  With Trust In the Lord   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 50:1

The Mighty One, God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to where it sets.  (NIV)

 

Thoughts

That was an incredible statement and shows, without question the might of the Lord.  It's also reassuring to truly know that God is in control and that sits so well with me. 

With trust in the Lord

, those few words warm my soul.

(Jim C)

Action Point

Do you want to see the power, goodness and faithfulness of the Lord?  Then go outside on a morning of your choosing, set and watch the sun rise.  In this short time, you will see the power of God, the faithfulness of God and truly see that by opening your heart, His light will shine on you and give you the peace and warmth you have longed for.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

At about the start of every hunt, I or a member of our team takes a minute to thank God for the opportunity to hunt and be in His outdoors.  We are now ready for the hunt, set for the adventure, and ready for a memory.  Try and see how much better your time outdoors is when you are thankful  to our God who created it.

November 15, 2012 Today's Photograph . . . . Others Will See That You Believe In Who You Live For (Doug L)

Bible Study Verse Hebrews 9:25 Nor did He enter Heaven to offer Himself again and again, the way the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not His own. (NIV) Thoughts Times have gotten tougher. People with greed and power in their hearts govern us. They are not for us, they are for themselves. That's why collectively they can never make a decision. They have no accountability yet want us to vote for them; because they have "hope and change" It is not them we should ever have faith in! We must stay strong to our beliefs; encourage one another because the Day is approaching. (Jim C) Action Point As outdoorsman it is our job to pass on what we know, what we have learned and encourage others to do the same. Be ever vigilant because there are those who wish us not to enjoy the hunts God has blessed us with. They are truly wolves in sheep's clothing. Stand up for what you believe and believe with your entire heart what you stand for. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day A simple tip: Live by what you believe and others will see that you believe in who you live for! "God made me a fisherman and hunter; I am proud of both and apologize to no one."

November 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Future Looks Impossible To Overcome . . .    (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Deuteronomy 31:9  

So Moses wrote down this law and gave it to the Levitical priests, who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and to all the elders of Israel. (NIV)

Thoughts

We all go through tough times and in some cases the future looks impossible to overcome.

Take a minute, breath deep and realize that the key to overcoming a difficult situation lies in faith and your ability to understand that with God's grace and taking this situation you face head on, one day at a time, you will overcome!!!!  

(Jim C)

Action Point

Have you ever noticed that Gods encouragement and promises are always right to the point and not vague?  You never hear from God, "let me be clear" and then the words are clear as mud!   

God says what He does and does what He says.  He will not let you down.  Your faith will be rewarded!!!! 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Practice makes perfect is an old saying and while you may not be "perfect", practice gives you faith in your ability. That faith gives you confidence and you will achieve greater results because of the time you put in practice.  

 

November 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . I Never Feel Anxious.  Funny How That Works   (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Timothy 2:11-13

Here is a trustworthy saying:  If we died with Him, we will also live with Him; if we endure, we will also reign with Him. If we disown Him, He will also disown us; if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself. (NIV)

Thoughts

Knowing if we believe and live for Christ, that when we die, we will live with Him in eternity.   That should speak volumes to us when we feel selfish about just living for ourselves.  These words came to my mind I'm sure not only for all of you, but myself as well!!!

(Jim C)

Action Point

I know that when my life becomes "too full" or I feel anxious that I have too much on my plate.  I rush around and little seems to get done.  I then stop, take a minute and ask myself, "Where are your priorities?"  When I realize what and where they are, I usually come to the conclusion that I need to adjust what I'm doing.  

When I live for Christ and with His help, I never feel anxious.  Funny how that works!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency for someone else. Moral of the story, plan ahead and be ready. You will always be glad you did!!!

November 12, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . SBD Dauntless Dive Bomber   (Fred B)

Veterans    Day    2012,    Honoring    Each    and    Every    Woman    and   Man    Who    Served    or    Is    Serving    in    Our    Military.     Thank    You    and    GOD    Bless    You!!!

Bible Study Verse

Colossians 3:1  

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. (NKJV)

Thoughts

From the USN carrier Yorktown's flight deck, we descended into the first hanger bay. I was stunned to be looking at the exact airplane that Dad flew in during WW II, an SBD Dauntless Dive Bomber! 

He was radioman-gunner. His seat and the twin 30-caliber machine guns were 10 feet  from me! Dad flew patrols on the US coast, looking for German subs. 

(Fred B) 

Action Point

Christ is seated higher, at His Father's right hand in Heaven. We are also seated higher, He raised us up together and made us sit together in the Heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Read Ephesians 2:6.  

We need to quit living low, Earthly, and live high and tight, Godly, with our Savior every day. He has put us in a seat beside Him, far above all principality, power, might and dominion. Read Ephesians 1:21. It's a royal skybox! 

Don't live like you're sitting in the cheap seats. A Prince is sitting beside you, He is your King!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

We can bless US veterans by supporting organizations that honor and help them. Wounded Warriors is one of those. Christian Bow Hunters of America, God's Great Outdoors,  and other local Christian men's groups sponsor hunting and fishing trips for vets also. Or guide some vets on a trip of your own.  

November 11, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Old War Survivor (Fred B)

Veterans   Day   2012   God Bless Each Veteran and Their Families!!!   May God Bless America . . .

Bible Study Verses

Isaiah 50:6-7 

I gave My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard;
I did not hide My face from shame and spitting. "For the Lord God will help Me; therefore I will not be disgraced; therefore I have set My face like a flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed." 

(NKJV)

Thoughts

My Uncle Quentin  is a survivor. At age 19, he was mortally wounded in the Battle of the Bulge and was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery. A young Army surgeon saved his arm, but barely.

Did my uncle quit, go on total disability, take pity on himself? No! Instead, he put himself through college and became a USDA District Soil Conservationist in northern WV. 

At age 29, He came to Christ and His new life began . . . 

National recognition came soon after, for his Elk River Soil/Water Conservation Project. 

After 30+ years of helping WV farmers, Uncle Quentin retired.  He then helped start a church; nursed his wife, my Aunt Joy,  through 5 years of terminal cancer. taught Sunday School at a mountain church, married a widow, and now helps her work a 50 head Angus farm, delivering 20 calves per Spring. He's currently fighting cancer at age 87. He's still a survivor!

(Fred B)

Action Point

The Messianic passage above talks of Jesus being a survivor. You say, "But He died. How was He a survivor?" 

First, He survived the world's worst beating--flogged, pierced, hair and beard ripped out, crushed under the load of a 100+ pound cross-beam, plus the load of our sins transferred onto Him, as He climbed the hill. Isaiah records Messiah's words, "I have set my face like a flint."

Second, He voluntarily laid down His life for us and rose from the dead by His own power. John 10:17,18, "Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father," (NKJV).

Third, He is waiting to come back and take over His Earthly kingdom, conquering all other powers. Revelation 19:15, "Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God," (NKJV).

Just as I'm proud of my Uncle Quentin for his sacrifice, service to our country, and endurance of physical and emotional trials--so, we can be proud of the greatest survivor in history our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Prepare to survive eternally--call upon Jesus to be your Savior, the Sacrifice for your sins. You can't survive without Him.

Prepare to survive your hunt, hike, or fishing trip: parachute chord bracelet, first aid kit, fire starter, food, water/water filter, knife and sidearm (where legal), even for a day hike.

November 10, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . People Who Depend On Their Work or Personal Qualifications Will Be Told What This Sign Says  (Jack M)

Bible Study Verse

Galatians 2:16 

Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. (NIV)

 

Thoughts

"I should be awarded this recognition because I have fulfilled all the requirements."  A young person was coached to say this.   They were about to be interviewed prior to being recognized for the ultimate award in a particular organization.  He believed he had earned the award. 

(Jack M)

 

Action Point
There are a lot of people who feel that way about going to Heaven. They believe they have fulfilled all the requirements. They think that their good works, their charitable giving, their attendance at church, their record of public service, their membership in a club, their family history, or any number of other things will get them to Heaven.

People who depend on their work or personal qualifications will be told "Do Not Enter" like the sign in today's picture.

The truth is that there is only one way to go to Heaven. That Way has a name. His name is Jesus Christ. He died, was buried, and rose again in order to fulfill all the requirements for humans to go to Heaven. Put your faith in Him alone for Heaven.

What are you counting on to get there? In Christ alone is the answer.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Make sure that you sign or endorse all of your permits and licenses when you receive them and before you hunt with them. In most places it is not legal to hunt unless you sign your name or endorse the license, the tags or stamps. Even the federal waterfowl stamps must be signed by the owner to be valid. With many items being printed or delivered electronically from one's own computer, this is especially easy to forget.

November 9, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  Are You Doing What God Has Promised To Bless??? (Jack M)

Bible Study Verses

Galatians 6:7-9

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (ESV)

Thoughts

We got them coming and going!  We had tags to fill, and we were blessed to do that.  One tom in the morning, and one in the evening.  

We were hunting wild turkeys in the spring season.  A friend had invited us to come hunt his ranch just west of the Missouri river.  That's "West River" here in South Dakota.  He had graciously given me and my friend permission to hunt toward the end of the spring season. 

Travis told me there were 100 plus turkeys roosting in the ranch windbreak at times.  Their pattern was to roost there, fly down, go into the prairie to feed and "turkey around" all day, then come back to the roost at evening.  

A nice tom came to my calling in the morning for Gary.  I put the sneak on one just before the day ended on another for a super successful day.  Thank you Lord!!!

(Jack M)

Action Point

The turkeys come home to roost.  Sin comes home to roost.  Righteousness comes home to roost.  The verses above tell it like it is.  Your sin will have its day of payback.  God will forgive our sin.  But the consequences of that sin often will still apply and will become a reality. 

Lesson?  Avoid sin.  Live a life of holiness and righteousness.

Doing what is right will, also, come home to roost.  God will bless righteousness.  Some say they wish for God to bless them, and I ask them "Are you doing what God has promised to bless?  If you are, He will bless you."   

"He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness," II Corinthians 9:10 (ESV).  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Become successful in the field by planning, practice and preparation.  This includes shooting, food plots, trail cams, scouting, journaling, learning about your quarry, and spending time observing game in their own habitat and actions.

November 8, 2012 

Today's Photograph . . . . Also See The Effects Of God All Around Me Everyday and He Is Nearby   (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."  (NIV)

  

Thoughts

It was a fairly cool March day in the late afternoon and I was hiking near my home. I was exploring an area new to me that held some old mining adats, tunnels and relics. There were still large patches of snow on the ground as I navigated my way up the mountain. Soon I discovered what was at some point a wide trail, possibly the road where the miners brought the ore down from the mountain. This particular road held quite a bit of snow, a detail that really seemed inconsequential at the time.

Once I reached the top of the mountain, I saw what I had come for, three adats which held mine tunnels behind them as well as evidence of mining activity. I spent about an hour at the top exploring the area. As the sun was beginning to set, I decided to make the short trip back down to my truck. Weaving my way through the cat claw and brush I located the ore road and stepped up the pace. Then I noticed something that made my heart race. 

  

There next to one of my boot prints going up the mountain was a fresh mountain lion track going down the mountain. I looked ahead and saw the freshly laid tracks in the snow going down the same road, tracks that were not there as I was hiking up just an hour ago.

(Brett M)

 
Action Point

The verse in Deuteronomy comes at the time Moses has brought the Israelites to the land of Canaan, and realizing he will not be entering, is giving them words of encouragement. Reminding them that God was always with them. He would never leave them, not during the last forty years in the desert and not in the future.

I did not see the mountain lion. But, that does not mean he was not there, I saw evidence of his presence and he was nearby. I, also, have never seen God.  But, just like I saw the effects of the cat, I also see the effects of God all around me, everyday and He is nearby.

  

It takes faith to navigate through this world holding onto a promise that He will never leave us or forsake us. However, one thing that makes it easier is to see that promise all around us in His creation.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Even on short, seemingly benign outings, remember to carry some type of personnel protection. Pepper spray, a side arm, or even a big stick can come in handy if you encounter one of God's creatures while enjoying His creation.

November 7, 2012 

Today's Photograph . . . . Is There Someone Out There For You To Mentor  (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Timothy 3:16-17

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV)

Thoughts

It was a little warm still under the summer sun as we mounted our horses and readied to hit the trail. We were setting off on a four hour ride to retreat into some of God's most beautiful country for a week.

My friend was leading me into the wilderness to teach me how to fly fish. We had done some practicing at home; teaching me how to cast overhead, how to side cast, how to aim, how to hit my target, and how to strip line were among the previous days lessons. Then it was to a lake with a float tube and casting for fish.

We caught several rainbows our first day out. Next we went to another lake, then to a river where the teachings continued and were much different from the teachings of still water fishing. Now we were waist deep in a fast moving river trying to see a floating fly go by at what seemed like 40mph.

 
It had been a long week of learning, but now was the moment of truth. Fly rods stowed and flies tied, we were setting out under that warm August sun; setting out on a trip of a life time.

(Brett M)

Action Point

Timothy appears to have followed Paul's teaching on his first trip to Lystra and when Paul returns to Lystra Paul finds Timothy again. Paul and Timothy would spend a great deal of time together, teaching, and ministering to the world. Paul clearly became a mentor to the younger Timothy. Although Paul had many people that followed him and his teachings about Christ, it was Timothy who held a special place in Paul's heart. Of the thirteen letters Paul has written in the New Testament, ten of them mention Timothy.

My friend has been more than a friend, more than a fly fishing instructor: he has been a spiritual mentor. Why? I don't know. I am nothing special but he, by the grace and probably urging of God, took me in (spiritually) and began to lead and mentor me.

  
Is there someone out there for you to mentor? The Bible is filled with verses that instruct us, both men and women to mentor others. As is it says in Psalms 119:130, "The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple," Take the time to pray and see if God doesn't introduce someone into your life that He wants you to mentor. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Patience is the key when teaching someone something new. If they are having a hard time understanding your direction, don't get impatient with them. Remember they want to learn, instead re-evaluate your instruction and try again.

November 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Should Their Sacrifice Be Wasted  (Mike E)

Bible Study Verse

James 4:17

So any person who knows what is right to do but does not do it, to him it is sin. (Amplified)

Thoughts

Most when there is a right thing to do just do it. That's determination and integrity. But how does one wrestle with when they aren't sure with what to do? There are many arguments and many views.

It amazes me that one  that is diagnosed with cancer will look for the best oncologist for treatment and what that doctor believes is the second consideration. Even I when faced with surgery went with the best. It never came up what this surgeon believed about Jesus Christ. But, I did check his previous experience on his surgical results. Experience counts!!!!!!!

America is crumbling financially before our very eyes. We need God's mercy and wisdom to turn this mess around. We need leadership that has the experience and the ability to lead in all levels of government. Spending yours and my tax dollars on things we know to be morally wrong is wrong!!!

Accountability is crucial to living for Christ in personal life, in leadership, in all areas. Portraying oneself as a victim doesn't cut it. In sports or in living no one overcomes without being on the offensive, visualizing victory, energizing others to come along and win. 

God does provide for our needs. There's been massive amounts of prayer and fasting for this election. Chuck Colson used Jethro's instruction to Moses on selecting leaders in Exodus 18:21, "Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers . . ." (NKJV).

Jesus paid for our sins and our citizenship is in Heaven, our accountability requires each while here on Earth to engage and fight for our Biblical values, where our tax dollars are spent, and who leads us. Our freedom to worship is challenged. The Ten Commandments are gone . . . we can't pray in schools . . . children can learn about sex, witchcraft, even Islam within our public schools . . . What will we allow next? Your vote can deter or point what direction America goes unless you vote a vote that doesn't count. I'm voting because I love this country and I believe voting is a privilege not a detriment to my Christian example. 

Sadly our military can risk their lives by being deployed, but they can't vote. I spoke to a young military wife that had been trying to fax her vote in to a designated fax machine, with confirmation in hand  received 6 hours earlier, she was being told by phone her faxed vote had never been received. She explained she had been doing this for 4 weeks, but she wasn't giving up. She, also, told me her husband in the Mideast hadn't received a ballot to vote with. I encouraged her to contact her senator, who is a war vet. 

Action Point

Pray for God's guidance and choose candidates supporting your Biblical values. At every political level    MAKE   YOUR   VOTE   COUNT.

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

To be sure on the selections you pushed on the voting machine, review your summary page before your "cast" your ballot. Once you push the "cast your ballot" button, it cannot be corrected. The elections are too close and with the calibration errors we must recheck our choices. If there is an error ask for help and double check your choices again. Every vote matters, especially yours.

Please check the website:  http://www.christianvoterguide.com/  

Great information there.

November 5, 2012    

Today's Photograph . . . . The Only Thing To Promote Evil Is For Good Men and Women To Do Nothing  (Donny N)

Bible Study Verses

Ephesians 5:5-11

For be sure of this: that no person practicing sexual vice or impurity in thought or in life, or one who is covetous [who has lustful desire for the property of others and is greedy for gain]-for he [in effect] is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one delude and deceive you with empty excuses and groundless arguments [for these sins], for through these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of rebellion and disobedience. So do not associate or be sharers with them. For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light]. For the fruit (the effect, the product) of the Light or the Spirit [consists] in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart, and trueness of life. And try to learn [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him]. Take no part in and have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds and enterprises of darkness, but instead [let your lives be so in contrast as to] expose and reprove and convict them. (Amplified)

Thoughts 

The only thing to promote evil is for good men to do nothing. Will you be a good man or a good woman who looked on and did nothing . . . 

After reading  the above, you can't step away from this election. If we as believers in God's Holy Living Word and followers of our Savior Jesus Christ, we must take a stand. Only 25% of Christians in America voted in our last presidential election, where were the remaining 75%? With dead people voting and uncalibrated or miscalibrated voting machines, voting errors are possible.  

One day each of us will stand before Jesus giving an account for what we did and didn't do for Him. Not one of us wants to hear since we voted for a politician who supported abortion plus making it free by our tax dollars that we were responsible for thousands and thousands of innocent babies having their lives ended. In just American alone over 1.4 million babies are aborted each year. The guilt and the depression for a woman after her abortion becomes heartbreaking. The argument that it's tissue doesn't hold when you read what God says in Psalms 139:16-17, "Your eyes saw my unformed substance, and in Your book all the days [of my life] were written before ever they took shape, when as yet there was none of them. How precious and weighty also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them," (Amplified).  God's thoughts towards one little person and His recording of them before they ever took shape is undeniable!!!

This election determines whether American survives financially or not. Add up all the income taxes you have given for the last 29 yrs and ask yourself, "Where did it go?" At the current spending trend in Washington DC if America collapses financially there will be no military funded, no food stamps, no social security, no Medicare, and no America, but maybe NATO. The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 22:7, "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender's slave," (NASB). Your choice . . .

Our 2nd amendment rights are being challenged and threatened by a treaty with the United States and the UN besides it barely survived in the Supreme Court by one vote. Whoever is chosen as our next President will elect the next Supreme Court justices since we have 4 judges that are 70+ yrs. This could determine our rights and America for the next 30 or 40 years. Each vote you cast will help or prevent our constitutional rights . . .  

"And I will bless those who bless you [who confer prosperity or happiness upon you] and curse him who curses or uses insolent language toward you; in you will all the families and kindred of the earth be blessed [and by you they will bless themselves]," Genesis 1:23 (Amplified). As Americans we have been blessed immensely by God. Yet we kicked the Ten Commandments and prayer out of our schools and now have violence and death within the walls. America encourages and promotes sexual  immorality through the pornography industry . . . How long will God be patient with America? 

As long as America and Americans support Israel, the apple of God's eye, we may enjoy some blessings, but there are consequences to many of our choices. Israel has been an ally and now the relationship is currently strained.  Not good for America . . .

(Jo Q)

Action Point

This election is for life. We must take a stand for pro-life for the unborn not the secular stand for "a woman's rights." We must vote our Biblical values as Billy Graham has encourage each of us to do. That means every vote you choose must fall under God's approval not man's.

The cries of the innocent aborted unborn are being heard by the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. Our choice is clear to vote using the Bible as our guide. 

Protecting our families could become part of our past. Losing to gun control through the loss of our 2nd amendment rights could threaten our abilities to hunt. 

Pray for peace in Israel and her protection.

Pray for God to bless us and for all the candidates. Our very lives, freedoms, and the futures for our children and grandchildren hang in the balance.

  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

To be sure on the selections you pushed on the voting machine, review your summary page before your "cast" your ballot. Once you push the "cast your ballot" button, it cannot be corrected. The elections are too close and with the calibration errors we must recheck our choices. If there is an error ask for help and double check your choices again. Every vote matters, especially yours.

Please check the website:  http://www.christianvoterguide.com/  

Great information there.

November 4, 2012  

Today's Photograph . . . . Someday The House That I Built and Raised A family In Will Look Just Like This Cabin (Brett M)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 6:19-21

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (NIV)

Thoughts

My daughter and I were exploring an area when we came across what was an old homestead. It was essentially a one room log cabin with a stone fireplace. As I looked over the construction aspects of the cabin it was apparent that much care had gone into the structure. Trees that had to be hand felled and then stripped of their bark. Then moved to their current location where they had to have the notches hand carved to receive the next log, then stacked, one by one, logs that weighed hundreds of pounds. It had a stone fire place that was constructed of flat native rocks that had to be collected from all over the area. Then each one hand placed and secured with a mortar material. A single door and a few windows followed by a roof that no longer existed.

I imagine a front porch with a swing that overlooked the beautiful country. The cabin residents enjoying a view that overlooked open grasslands that blended into tall ponderosa pines with deer, elk, and turkey passing through on occasion. This is an area that holds thousands of acres of prime grazing land ripe with fodder to prepare the herd for market; an almost perfect setting in my mind's eye.

(Brett M)

Action Point

Jesus is teaching about money at this time in the book of Matthew. He is speaking of the importance of building your treasure in Heaven and not here on earth. A few years ago, I went through the difficult process of building my own home. Acting as general contractor and subcontracting much of the work myself was not an easy task, especially for someone who has never done it before. When I was done, I had a great sense of accomplishment and pride. But, I also know that someday the house that I built and raised a family in will look just like that cabin; a foundation, a fireplace, and maybe some walls.

I hope that I am successful in storing up treasures in Heaven. Treasures that can never be destroyed or stolen. It is less about the rewards that I may receive in Heaven, but more about wanting that my heart should be in the right place before God.

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Know your taxidermist prior to your hunt. Talk to him about how he wants the animal caped out. He may prefer that you keep the head on ice and allow him to cape out the difficult parts of the face or he may give you instructions on how to do it. Either way understand his expectations and your abilities prior to ever setting a knife to your trophy.  

 

November 3, 2012

Today's Photograph . . . . If Not, Readjust and Make It Count   (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verse 

Psalm 49:10-12

Anyone can see that the brightest and best die,  wiped out right along with fools and dunces.    They leave all their prowess behind, move into their new home, The Coffin, The cemetery their permanent address. And to think they named counties after themselves! We aren't immortal. We don't last long. Like our dogs, we age and weaken. And die. (The Message)

Thoughts

It was opening day of my elk hunt. Although I had not seen as much as a rabbit, I was still very excited as I had drawn a bull tag in an Arizona unit that was known to produce 400 class bulls every year. I still had six days left and planned on being in the field for every second of light, as well as several hours in the dark.

I do not get cell service where I hunt so I always drive to the nearest town at night to call my wife, to let her know all is okay and to see how her and the kids are doing.

This night, when I called was like no other. "My dad's surgery didn't go well. He is in the hospital now and I think he's dying." The news hit like a sucker punch to the stomach. I immediately dropped everything, secured camp and began driving home.

(Brett M)

Action

He had surgery the day before Thanksgiving. A routine operation we were assured. This particular doctor performs three of these a day. Yet in this case, just a few short days later my father-in-law died.

This Psalm tells us that we are all going to die. It does not matter how much we accumulate on this earth, we cannot take it with us.

Each and every one of us will stand before God empty handed. There is, however, one thing that we will take with us to heaven, our investments. Not our stock portfolios or our 401Ks, but our eternal investments.

Where can we find those eternal investments? We find them by having faith in God, reading His word and obeying it and by utilizing the gifts that he has given each and every one of us to further His Kingdom.

There will not be one of us who will find ourselves standing before The Almighty, empty handed wishing we had put more money into our 401K, we had gotten that bigger house or the nicer car. However, every one of us will be wishing we had built up more eternal treasure in Heaven.

Take the time now to re-evaluate your investment portfolio. Is your time, is your energy, and is your money really going to what counts? If not, readjust and make it count.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you haven't prepared it already, make your will a priority. You don't want your favorite whitetail mount going to your vegetarian sister and your guns being sold to the neighbors from your driveway.

November 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Perhaps We Have Been Placed Here . . .   (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Esther 4:13-14

And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: "Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (NKJV)

Thoughts

It had been a long season.  It was twenty degrees on a December Saturday morning and I really didn't feel like getting up this early and driving the hour to my deer lease in order to be there by daylight.  But an empty buck tag and a good stand site won me over. I rolled out of bed and bundled up. 

At 9:30 that same morning, I was standing over a massive nine point buck.  Opportunity had knocked and I had answered.

(Brian H)

Action Point

In spiritual terms we're very good at seeing opportunities, but how good are we at seizing them?  More times than not, we see an opportunity and we tell other people about it in hopes that they will seize that opportunity.  How tragic that we're so willing to pass off God's blessing to someone else!!! 

You see, God is in the business of bringing people and circumstances into our lives with a purpose for us to fulfill.  When we decide that we're not going to seize an opportunity that God has put in front of us, then He will allow someone else to accomplish His will and will bless them instead!!! 

You know that thing that you've been worrying over or fretting about?  Yeah, that thing.  God wants you to see that as an opportunity to do something for Him.  You've been put right here for such a time as this.  Look at life differently from here on.  SEE opportunities around you and SEIZE them!!!  Perhaps we have been placed here "for such a time as this!!!"

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Winter and early Spring is a great time to inventory your hunting and fishing equipment,  fix broken equipment, or cull it if it's not fixable.  Mend holes in torn clothes, refletch arrows, clean firearms, brace up deer stands, clean out the tackle box.....in a word.....seize the opportunity to do some clean up and organization.

November 1, 2012 

Today's Photograph . . . . Hartshorne Drive on Sandy Hook Flooded (NPS)

Our hearts are heavy with the loss of life and homes. Our prayers surround all affected by the storms and weather. Reminding each and everyone, we have the choice to become bitter or allow God to make us stronger and better as only His transforming love can do. God bless each of you.

Bible Study Verses

Psalms 32:6-7

Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (NIV)

Thoughts

Hurricane season - every May, these two words appear in the headlines of every coastal newspaper. Predictions are made. Bottled water is purchased. Even so, when the surge and gale arrives all the preparations in the world won't deter the destruction of wind and waves.

(Will D)

Action Point

Destructive forces are all around. It is Satan season 24/7 and he is predictably present 365. A Category 5 storm colored red on the radar. But, there is good insurance for the onslaught. Zero deductibles and no premiums. Jesus took on the storm so we don't have too - our relationship with Christ is the only way to survive the un-survivable!!!

Check out what Jesus says in Matthew 11:28-30, "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly," (The Message).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Many people have been affected by recent storms from Sandy. I have seen firsthand churches and individuals helping clear the debris from nature's destructive forces. If possible, always consider financial or physical support for those needing a hand to recover.