February 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Thunderstorm Moving In (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 29:3-4

The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic. (NIV)

Thoughts

A thunderstorm moving in is a mighty sight, but a thunderstorm over the ocean's water is awesome. 

My son, a friend, his son, and I were camped on the beach on Galveston Island. During the early morning hours, a storm rolled in off the Gulf with lots of thunder. The thunderclaps were not only loud, they would echo across the water, prolonging a loud boom. Along with lightning, it was truly a awesome experience of God's majesty!!!

(Tom B)

Action Point

I take God for granted a lot of time in the course of my busy life--He's the "Big Guy" up there when I need something. But, experiencing something like the majesty of the storm triple highlights His majesty and His power. As David wrote, "The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic," Psalm 29:4 (NIV)

Along with the power of God we find that He is, also, a soft, loving God who comforts in the time of trouble. As a loving father lifts his young baby son when he cries, my God lifts me up and comforts me when I am hurting.

I serve a powerful, majestic Creator. I serve a loving, caring Father who wants only the best for me.

    

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

In the Spring, the weather can change quickly--cold fronts sweep in, changing gentle spring weather into a seething caldron of rain, thunder, and lightning. Fishing right before a frontal passage can present some very good fishing action. But, make sure you're off the water before the bad weather rolls in!!!

February 5, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Boys' Day To Play (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 27:17

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. (NIV)

Thoughts

Friends better each other. Through shared outdoor experiences, vital skills are learned and camaraderie is built, similar to that shared by military personnel. Life-long friends are found, lasting relationships developed, and trust for each other is cemented by outdoor experiences.

Shared pursuits, successes enjoyed, and even failures that are encountered embellish and strengthen these bonds. We learn together from mistakes; and friends help us by sharing our faults as well as commending our strengths. Such trust enables accountability, and we may make one another better, in the woods and in life.

(Jack M)

Action Point

Intentionally develop friendships through your hunting, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor interests. Use this common ground to find new friends. As these relationships develop, respectfully look for and pray for opportunities to share Truth with them. Especially share the need for forgiveness of sin that is available in Jesus Christ. Challenge each other to live for Christ, to be holy and upright in life, language, attitudes, and actions. He who calls us is holy, and we should be holy as well (1 Peter 1:15). Spiritual accountability is especially needed for success in our relationship with God. Make yourself accountable to others who want to honor the Lord Jesus.

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Always keep your hunting knives sharp and ready for proper use. Learn to correctly sharpen and maintain an edge on your all edged tools. Emergencies develop that require a good blade, knife, or other cutting tool. Sharp tools are safer than dull ones.

February 4, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Raccoon   (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Isaiah 29:15

Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their work in darkness and think, "Who sees us? Who will know?" (NIV)

Thoughts

"Coon hunters do it in the dark!" This saying was on a T-shirt I once observed. Those who hunt raccoons at night with dogs do so because their quarry is nocturnal.

Darkness is also utilized by waterfowl hunters to put out decoys and ready their sets in order to decoy and call in ducks and geese.

Turkey hunters use a "hoot owl" locator call in the late evenings or mornings to find out where the birds are roosted. Once located, they can set up on that big gobbler in the early morning.

Deer hunters claim the advantage of darkness to enter that favorite stand.

Unfortunately, cheaters and criminals also use the darkness. They think that their poaching and other illegal activities are covered and hidden by it.

Jack M)

Action Point

Darkness does not justify or excuse illegal, immoral activity. Remember that God has no limits to what He sees or hears. "This is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all,".1 John 1:5 (NIV).

Be aware that what is sown will be reaped. "As I have observed, those who plow evil

and those who sow trouble reap it, " Job 4:8 (NIV).

What we think is hidden is not secret at all! Nothing is hidden from God. Even our thoughts and motives are open and bare before a God who knows and sees all. "You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, LORD, know it completely," Psalm 139:1-4 (NIV).

One of the saddest situations I know is one in which an outdoorsman sets a bad example for his own children or for another young hunter. Let's obey the laws. We will account to God for all we have done in this life.

Let's live, knowing there is no darkness in Him, and that He can and does observe everything. Use the darkness for hunting purposes, but live as a child of the Light!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Good lights are essential to utilizing darkness effectively and safely. Take light sources with you into the field. Very small lights are available as well as those that are not visible to game. A friend of mine broke a leg hunting deer with a bow. He used his pen light to send an SOS signal to a farmer on a combine. The farmer stopped the machine, heard my friend yelling for help, and called paramedics. He was extracted from a remote location and a very serious situation. That light may well have saved his leg and his life!

February 3, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Buffalo With Calves (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Hebrews 5:13-14

Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (NIV)

Thoughts

The renewing of Spring: Buffalo calves are first to arrive in my area; not long after, the elk, deer, and antelope start giving birth to their young. Those babies depend on their mother for nourishing milk and for protection from predators. As they mature they will rely less on their mother's milk and start to enjoy the food God has provided for them. They will become fleet of foot, able to avoid potential predators.

Ron T)

Action Point

When I first became a believer in Jesus Christ, I was like a baby in my understanding. I think back to that time--amazing how much I did not know.

Through time in God's word, fellowship with other Christians, and a good Bible-based church, my maturity level has and is continuing to increase. That's how it works in nature and that's how it works in our Christian walk with God.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

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

February 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .

Bible Study Verses

Proverbs 5:21-22

For your ways are in full view of the LORD, and He examines all your paths. The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast. (NIV)

Thoughts

After a mountain lion makes a kill, it will generally drag the meal to an inconspicuous place and begin to feed. After he has eaten his fill, he will usually cover up what remains of the carcass and return the next day to eat again. The big cat will use sticks, grass, leaves, pine needles, or whatever is available to hide its meal from other animals.

It may seem like a good plan, but hiding the rotting, smelling flesh of its prey with grass might not work out as well as the lion thinks.

I have set up trail cameras on a lot of lion kills and, in almost every situation, once the cat has left the kill site other critters such as fox, coyotes, eagles, and magpies, to name a few, start to show up and help themselves to the mountain lion's hard earned meal.

(Ron T)

Action Point

Hiding sin is another tough one to get away with. You may be able to hide sin from others. You may even be able to fool yourself into thinking you have successfully covered up your sin and nobody knows the better, forgetting that those sins begin to rot and smell, making it even more difficult to hide.

Of course hiding sin from God is impossible, "Your ways are in full view of God."

Proverbs 28:13 says, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy," (NIV).

God provided us with an "out". Confess those sins ASAP, go right to the top, tell God what you have done, He already knows anyhow, it's not a big secret to God.

Once you have acknowledged your sins, God will remember them no more. (Hebrews 8:12).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

It's a good idea to have a rescue rope when on the water or on the ice. It's pretty hard to throw a chunk of rope, so tie one end of the rope to a jug handle. Fill the jug about one third full of water. Now you can throw the jug to someone in need and the rope will follow. Hang on to the lose end of the rope.

February 1, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Whitetail Doe On The Run (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Samuel 23:20-23

Benaiah was the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel, who had done many deeds. He had killed two lion-like heroes of Moab. He also had gone down and killed a lion in the midst of a pit on a snowy day. And he killed an Egyptian, a spectacular man. The Egyptian had a spear in his hand; so he went down to him with a staff, wrested the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and killed him with his own spear. These things Benaiah the son of Jehoiada did, and won a name among three mighty men. He was more honored than the thirty, but he did not attain to the first three. And David appointed him over his guard.

(NKJV)

Thoughts

The hunter had watched the big buck chase a doe across the highline right-of-way several times.  The problem was that the crossing was several hundred yards away and there was no way to get a shot at that distance. 

Leaving his stand, he stalked quickly and quietly to the spot where he had seen the buck cross and sat under an overhanging pine limb.  Before long, the buck chased his doe through one more time.  He didn't make it across the highline this time.  A risky move? Yep.  Did it pay off?  Yep.

(Brian H)

Action Point

In our Christian walk, we're asked to take risks sometimes.  The Bible is a book that talks a lot about risk takers.  David took a risk when he fought Goliath.  Queen Esther took a risk when she approached her husband to foil the plot to kill off her people.  Peter took risks when he stood and preached "the Way" and saw many come to faith in Jesus.  Paul took risks in sharing Jesus to hostile listeners.  In today's example, Beniah chased a lion into a snowy pit and killed it. 

My point?  We know very little of risk-taking in our Christian life.  We don't like risk.  We're afraid that if we share our faith that we will become labeled.  We don't want to risk offending someone by standing up for what we believe in. 

When we reach the end of our life, we will look back and mourn for the spiritual lions that we failed to chase.  What could we accomplish for Christ if we would shrug off timidity and start taking some risks for our God? Let's agree to start taking some risks for God and see what happens.  It's a new year which makes it a perfect time to start something new.  Maybe we should become responsible Christian risk-takers this year.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Hunters in the South, don't give up yet!  If you haven't put some venison in the freezer yet, it can still happen.  The rut is long gone and deer are going to be back in their pattern of looking for food.  Key in on late-season food sources and the travel corridors that they use to get to and from food sources.  Camp out in a stand overlooking a food plot or pasture with winter wheat, a place that affords late season browse, or even a feeder and you may fill that tag yet!

January 31, 2012   

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

January 30, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Whitetail Doe (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Proverbs 1:1-7

The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:  to know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding, to receive the instruction of wisdom,

justice, judgment, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion - a wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel. To understand a proverb and an enigma, the words of the wise and their riddles. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (NKJV)

Thoughts

I can remember taking my son out on his first deer hunt, he had opportunities, but he just could not hit the target.

After the hunt I built a 3D deer target out of plywood and would set it up, in the brush about 200 yds away. We practiced on that old piece of plywood at different distances until it finally fell apart from all of the bullet holes.

That next year, my son killed his deer with the very first shot and he has not missed since. (Byron S.)

Action Point

When we increase our learning and seek God daily in His word we get wisdom and understanding.

I recently read a book where the author tells how he uses these gifts, to edify others. He states that when he runs into someone that seems bothered or maybe shares something personal, he will ask them, "What can I do for you?" He goes on to tell how he met a woman at the airport this way, learning that she was going home to divorce her husband. However, by the end of the flight home he had shared God's Holy Word for her, thru scripture, and she had changed her mind about divorce and would seek counseling for both her husband and herself.

GOD's wonderful Word can speak through us, if we are just willing to increase our wisdom and understanding.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Since so many of us today carry smart phones, they offer us not only emergency contact with the outside world, but also a GPS system. Not only that but there are apps available that allow us to carry a pocket Bible with us, right on our cell phone. Now we can carry scripture!!!

January 29, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Follow Out The Tracks To See (Ron T)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 139:7-10

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (NIV)

Thoughts

I came upon a fresh set of mountain lion tracks while on patrol this winter. I decided I would follow out the tracks to see if they would lead me to a kill site. I could then set up a trail camera to see if it was one of the radio collared lions we had marked for a research study.

I had a new GPS (global positioning system) unit so I marked the patrol vehicle as I headed across the snow packed hills. I went a few miles according to the GPS, but the tracks had not lead to a kill site and it was time to start heading back to the vehicle. The GPS unit showed the direction and distance back to the truck, but I knew a better route across a couple ridges and it would be a lot easier walk.

When I got to where the truck was suppose to be it wasn't there, somebody may have moved it.  They must have moved the road too cause it wasn't there either. I checked the GPS and from my new location, it recalculated and pointed me in a whole new direction. This time I followed the little arrow and after a short hike I arrived back at the truck.

(Ron T)

Action Point

It doesn't matter where you are, the global positioning unit will calculate from that location and send you to your desired waypoint.

God's positioning system, the Holy Spirit, will do the same, if you stray from His path. Ask Him for help. He will lead you back to Him from your current location, wherever it is.

"But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul," Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV). God's positioning system does not require batteries.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
A GPS unit is only as good as the batteries that are in it. If they are dead, all you have is extra weight. Make sure to pack extra batteries on your next trip. If possible, when you are shopping for gear that requires batteries, try to get gear that uses the same size, such as AA or AAA. That way you can switch them around if needed.

January 28, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Sign (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 22:28

Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors. (NIV)

Thoughts

One of Mr. Webster's definitions for a landmark is an object, such as a stone or tree, that marks a locality. Landmarks are very important to a sportsman especially to one who likes to hike.

I hike a national forest trail. The trail route is marked by metal markers (landmarks) on trees pointing toward the directions--straight, right or left. If a marker were removed, a person could lose the trail very fast and become lost.

(Tom B)

Action Point

What and where are your personal landmarks: honesty, integrity, belief, faith in God?

Don't compromise a personal landmark. Don't move a personal landmark. Stay true to your beliefs.

   

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

The number one item needed on any hiking trip is a good topographical map. Maps for any part of the United States can be found and purchased at the USGS website http://topomaps.usgs.gov/ordering_maps.html .

January 27, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Coyote (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 7:1-2

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (NIV)

Thoughts

He was driving down the highway when he saw three coyotes crossing the road ahead of him. The first two made it across the highway unscathed; the third was hit and killed by a car.

As he watched, the first two coyotes that had made it across the road turned in their tracks and headed back to their downed comrade. However, when they reached the third coyote, they proceeded to drag him from the roadway and devour him.

(Brett M)

Action Point

How do we act when others are knocked down in life and struggling? Whether it is a divorce, addiction, poor life choices, or a myriad of other problems, do we encourage, uplift, pray, and support? Or, do we gossip, speculate, and judge?

In the fire service, we call the latter, "eating our own"--taking the opportunity to devour another while they are down and struggling. It is no different than what those coyotes did to their own.

Christ makes it clear, "Stop judging." Whether it is our best friend, our worst enemy, a television celebrity, or a newsmaker, "Stop judging!"

Make it a point to pray for someone today whom you know is struggling in life. Better yet, pray for two people--a friend or co-worker and a newsmaker you have never met.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Hunting season always seems way too short. But in many areas, varmint hunting is open year round with just a valid hunting license. Check your local game laws and see if you can keep up on your stalking and shooting skills during the off-season by hunting varmints.

  

January 26, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Dusty Creek Bottom Transformed Into An Impenetrable River (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Ezekial 47:3-5

As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and then led me through water that was ankle-deep. He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another thousand and led me through water that was up to the waist. He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in-a river that no one could cross.

Thoughts

I had driven this particular back road before that day. I knew that it crossed a "wash" that rarely had little if any water running in it. This time, however, there was water flowing from bank to bank.

I exited my truck and pondered the obstacle before me. Not to be defeated in my journey, I quickly decided to forge ahead. After all, this was only a wash with a little water. Soon I found myself thigh deep in the middle of a roaring river, attempting to find traction for my truck that was now mid-door deep in water.

Here in southwestern United States we can pass months without any rain fall; then abruptly have a torrential downpour--flooding the once-arid creeks and washes and transforming a dusty creek bottom into an impenetrable river.

(Brett M)

Action Point

Our Christian lives are a lot like the river described in Ezekiel. At first it starts out small and immature; but the further it travels, the more it grows. When we become saved, we are just getting our feet wet. As we grow in Christ, we wade deeper and deeper into the river of His knowledge and grace. Our spiritual life, like that river, will be ever growing and ever deepening.

Make sure that life never allows us to get bogged down. Daily stresses or unforeseen circumstances can stall our spiritual growth. Develop a daily habit of spending time with God. Read Sportsmen's Devotional every day, dig deeper into GOD's Living Word, and use that time to grow spiritually. Then, when unexpected obstacles arise in our lives, we will have a stable practice of devotion and a knowledge of God's Biblical instruction that will keep us from getting stuck.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
It only takes six inches of flowing water to wash away a full-sized car. If you come to a river or wash that you think you cannot cross, you probably can't. Find a shallower place or turn around. This may just take you someplace you have never been.

January 25, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Fill Your Thoughts With His Living Water (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 28:19-20

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV)

Thoughts

Did you know that as of October 31, 2011, the world population hit 7 BILLION people!  I could hardly believe it myself.  Wow, that's 14 billion ears to hear the message of Christ.

But the question is, how do you reach them?  Thanks to our world of advanced technology SD has found such a way.  We call it Bible Verse 2 Day. Visit the website below to sign up:  http://www.bibleverse2day.com/

At Sportsmen's Devotional, we love photography and love scripture.  So for us it was natural to combine the two.  BV2D  provides a new photograph and a Bible verse each day of the year, and can be delivered worldwide within minutes, right to your smart phone or computer. 

Scripture is imbedded into each photograph and here is the unusual twist, every photograph used for BV2D is created using camera phones. Yes phones!

(Donny N)

Action Point

Jesus was serious when he said GO!!!  The delivery method may have changed, but the message remains the same. Go!!! 

Each day's photograph is intended to inspire and to encourage with GOD's Word.

Our hope is that you will place BV2D in a prominent location and meditate and memorize GOD's Holy Word throughout your day.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

A great way to stay connected to Christ while in the field is with daily quiet time afield.  Keep a small bible in your pack or if you carry your cell phone with you, download Bible applications to your smart phone or check your email for your daily Sportsmen's Devotional.  Who knows, the tip of the day may come in handy.

January 24, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Blue Jay (Wayne M)

Bible Study Verses

Job 12:7-8

"But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. (NIV)

Thoughts

In this picture above, taken by my friend Wayne Morris, the bird sits on the shiny surface of what appears to be the hood of an automobile.  His image is reflected in the surface of the hood.

Just as the shiny surface reflects the image of the bird, all of creation reflects the goodness, the power, the fact that God does exist, and that He is a good God who loves beauty and variety.

(Jack M)

Action Point

We are to reflect the character, nature, goodness, and image of God. We were created so.  We were made for Him and by Him.

His image in us was tarnished when our race chose to sin.  Sin and death marred and distorted that image. But, Jesus Christ came to re-create and to perfect that image in us.  He gave us the opportunity to become what we were created to be, images of God that accurately reflect Him and His glory.

Do you trust in Him?  Is He at work in you through His Holy Spirit giving you the desire and the dynamic power to be all He has made you to be?  Is He forming Christ in you?  If not, receive Christ as the only Savior, and begin to learn of Him.  

You will grow more like Him and more and more reflect Him accurately to others.  Read His Word, pray to Him, and obey His instructions.  Then you will succeed and like the bird is reflected in the surface of the auto's hood, you will reflect Him.   

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Carry a small mirror in your survival kit for reflecting the sun to identify your location in case of an emergency.  This item is small, not taking up much space, and could save yours or another's life in a dire situation.

January 23, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Mom and Her Boys On An Outdoor Adventure (Robert S)

Bible Study Verses

Proverbs 31:10-31

A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:  "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. (NIV)

Thoughts

These verses were written about my Mother, aka, Mom.  Mom was very patient with me and supported me in all my adventures, even when they scared her to death!  If Mom had seen the mountains where we hunt sheep, she wouldn't have slept well when I was on one of those hunts. 

When I went bear hunting by myself, I know she spent most of the day and a good part of the night praying (Mom was afraid of bears).  When I jumped in the ocean with a scuba tank strapped on my back, well, she understood and just asked me to be careful. It was like she had read Wild at Heart before John Eldredge wrote it. 

Mom knew that I needed adventure in my life.  From my early days on the farm to a few days ago, Mom just knew how I was wired.  I say "a few days ago," because last week Mom passed away.  

(Cliff S)

Action Point

The Bible states that we will all stand before God some day.  We just don't know on what day that will be.  Mom had over ninety years before she went home to be with the Father.  Only God knows how many days you or I will have. 

The thing is, Mom had faith in Jesus and had accepted Him as her personal Savior.  Mom's sins had been forgiven.  Whoa, Mom sinned?  Yes, as hard as it is to believe, even Mom was a sinner and was in need of God's gift of salvation through faith in Jesus.  Because of that faith Mom was at peace and was joyful when she passed. 

You see, in John 15:11 Jesus stated that He came so that His joy would be in us, and so that our joy would be complete.  Mom's joy was made complete when she went to be with Jesus last Wednesday!  During the last few days of Mom's life many people were there for her and the family and I am thankful for the prayers and support during Mom's last few weeks of life here with us. 

Now Mom is enjoying eternal life with God the Father.  Mom lived in God's will during her life here on earth.  But, the only thing better than being in the center of God's will is to be in His presence!!!  That's where Mom is now!!! 

I also know that the last thing Mom would want me to say to you is to please join her in the family of faith and accept Jesus as your personal Savior so you, too, can experience the peace and joy that only God can provide.  I have.  Will you?

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Take great joy in every day you have with your family, especially those spent outdoors!  We don't know what hunt will be their last, or for that matter, what day will be our last in the field.

January 22, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Big Horn Sheep   (Jimmy S)

Bible Study Verse

I John 5:4

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world-our faith. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Our faith in something grows stronger when we use and maintain that something in which trust. For example, when I am hunting, I have a stronger faith in my rifle or bow and in my ability to use it effectively if I practice with it, keep it clean and maintain it. If I just take it out of the closet, blow the dust off and go, I probably won't have much faith that I am going to have a successful hunt.

(Jimmy S)

Action Point
This same principle applies to our faith in God. If we don't maintain and practice our faith by reading the Word, keeping a strong prayer life, and then obeying what He has revealed to us in prayer, we will fail at overcoming the trials of the world because our faith is weak.

Make it a habit to take time each day to be in the Word and in prayer with the Lord. We can pray when we're driving to work or taking a walk. God will bless us for our diligence and commitment to Him in these things. He promises us that. Our faith in Him will be stronger as we trust Him more.

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Part of making plans for an upcoming hunt should include maintaining your weapon. Check it for loose parts, keep it clean, and make sure it shoots straight. A good way to prevent screws from coming loose on a bow is to coat the threads with Threadlocker or Lock Tight from the blue bottle.

January 21, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . They Can Provoke A Reaction Strike From A Moody Bass (Jimmy S)

Bible Study Verses

Psalms 105:1-2

Oh, give thanks to the LORD! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples!  Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him; Talk of all His wondrous works! (NKJV)

Thoughts

As hunters and fishermen we so much like to sit with others and talk about our last outdoor trip--the successes we had or the beauty we enjoyed in the outdoors. With that in mind, as Christian outdoor men and women we should have no problem sharing His wondrous works and deeds. We, of all people, have more opportunities than most to experience His beauty and majesty in the outdoors and to appreciate how unique the critters are that He has created

(Jimmy S)

Action Point

Next time you're sitting around telling hunting and fishing stories, try to incorporate God into the conversation. What a perfect opportunity to give Him credit for all He has done in your life and for all He has created.

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Can't buy a strike? Try a spinner bait or jig in a hot color like blaze orange or chartreuse. These outrageous hues don't look like much in nature, but they can provoke a reaction strike from a moody bass.

anuary 20, 2012    Today's Photograph . . . . Our Troubles, FROM GOD'S VIEW, Can Be A Lot Smaller Than We Perceive Them To Be (MQ)

Bible Study Verse Mark 10:27 Jesus looked at them and said,"With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."(NIV) Thoughts Several years ago, I took a trip to Colorado. We had gone there to capture some bighorn sheep that we planned to bring home for release in new sheep habitat. I remember going through downtown Denver and being amazed at the height of the buildings. Having grown up in a small rural area, the city was pretty impressive to me. As we headed west out of town and into the Rocky Mountains, I recall looking back toward Denver. All of those giant buildings appeared tiny from my new vantage point in the mountains (Ron T) Action Point The day-to-day problems we face can seem so huge and impossible to overcome when we try to solve them on our own. Isn't it great that we don't have to do that alone? Just as the buildings in Denver looked so small from the mighty Rockies, our troubles, from God's view, can be a lot smaller than we perceive them to be. If we stay in God's Word and ask Him for wisdom and help, ALL things are possible!!! Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Off-season planning for a big hunt is very important. Preparing your body for the hunt is just as important. Be sure to get on the treadmill, go for regular hikes, or head to the gym months before opening day.

January 19, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Not Ready For Ice Fishing Yet . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

I Corinthians 9:19-20

Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. (NIV)

Thoughts

There are a lot of ways to fish. Depending on the species of fish you're after, what might work in one area or time of year might not work somewhere else. My kids like to ice fish for yellow perch on a mild winter day on a frozen lake. I prefer to stalk rainbow trout in the creeks with my fly rod once the grasshoppers are active. My dad liked to troll around lakes for hours, dragging a line rig in hopes of catching walleye. When I'm on the job, I might use frame nets and even electricity to catch largemouth bass and other species of fish for conducting lake surveys.

(Ron T)

Action Point

When witnessing to people, it's important to be able to relate to their life and build a rapport with them:

• When I'm talking to a rancher, I might discuss cattle prices or horses I have known.
• When talking to a farmer, the price of wheat usually comes up and the weather is     always a good topic.
• With other game wardens, we will share cases we're investigating or wildlife populations in our districts.

Paul said, "To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some," I Corinthians 9:22 (NIV). If you're fishing for fish or fishing for people, it can be helpful to change your methods to match your audience.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

To reduce cabin fever on winter days, give ice fishing a try. If you go after perch, use a small jig or tear drop and bait with a wax worm. Drop it down to about six inches off the bottom. Perch hang out in schools; so if you're in the right spot, get ready for a lot of action.

January 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . We Would Frequently Stop And Talk . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Numbers 10:31-32

"Please don't leave us," Moses said, "since you know where we should camp in the wilderness, and you can serve as our eyes. If you come with us, whatever good the LORD does for us we will do for you." (HCSB)

Thoughts

I was taking a group of students through a simulated hunt that we had set up for a hunter education class. We would frequently stop and talk about proper gun carrying techniques, shoot and don't-shoot scenarios, and game and sign identification.  

I noticed that one young girl was staying in the back near her dad, hesitant to participate. Trying to encourage her participation, I told her that her stealth-like quietness and patience must be a real asset when she and her dad go hunting. Her face lit up with just a little praise; and she quickly began to share some of her past outdoor experiences.  

(Brett M)

Action Point

As Moses led the Israelites to the Promised Land, he asked Hobab to go with them on their journey. Initially, Hobab said no.  But after Moses complimented Hobab's wilderness skills, he agreed to go.  

Compliments and encouragement can go a long way in building a person's self-esteem, make them feel good about themselves and about you. An attitude of consistent encouragement is one way we can show Christ's love to others.  

Try encouraging your spouse, kids, boss, and co-workers and see how good you will begin to feel, and how your relationships will be strengthened.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Being a young and inexperienced sportsman can be discouraging. Mistakes are frequent, and success rare. Take time to encourage new sportsmen. Share your experiences, knowledge, and time.