April 8, 2012

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

Easter  Sunday  -  He's Alive !!!!!!!

Bible Study Verse

Luke 24:1-12

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

Thoughts

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

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

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

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

(Cliff S)

Action Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sportsman's Tip of the Day 

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

April 7, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 26:31-32

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Cliff S)

Action Point 

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

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

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

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

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

 

April 6, 2012   

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

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

Bible Study Verse

Luke 23:39-43  

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

Thoughts 

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

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

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

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

(Cliff S) 

Action Point 

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

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

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

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

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

April 5, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verses

II Kings 22:11-13, 22: 15-20  

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

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

Thoughts

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

(Ruben C)

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

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

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

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

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

April 4, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verse

Mark 4:26-28

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

Thoughts

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

(Ron T)

Action Point

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

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

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

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

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

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

April 3, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 46:1-3

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

 

Thoughts

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

 

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

(Tom L)

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

April 2, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verse

Zechariah.7:11-12

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

Thoughts

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

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

(Tom L)

Action Point

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

 

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

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

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

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

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

March 31, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Early On I Wasn't Very Successful (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Peter 1:3-4  

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. (NIV)

Thoughts

I can remember my first efforts at hunting. My decoy spread and duck calling actually chased the ducks away. It took five years to bag my first whitetail buck, a spike. 

On my first efforts in fly fishing, I couldn't catch a cutthroat on a dry fly in Yellowstone Park until an older gentleman gave me a fly and a few lessons. To say the least, early on, I wasn't very successful. 

Many years were needed to gather the knowledge and experience for success. My hope is that I continue to learn throughout my lifetime.

(Tom L)

Action Point

Just as we strive to learn more about hunting and fishing, we should strive to learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ.  

Reading the Word daily helps us "gain the knowledge of Him." If we stay in God's Word, we are less likely to neglect Christian disciplines, forget what God has done for us; and so, live a more consistent walk with Him.

  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Get together with an "old water fowler" and learn some of his secrets. You will be surprised what those years of experience can do for your hunting success.

March 30, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Lord Is Good To The One Who Seeks Him (Jack M)

Bible Study Verses

Lamentations 3:22-25

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;

therefore I will wait for Him." The LORD is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks Him. (NIV)

Thoughts

Morning. Dawn. A new day. New mercies. There is something special about early mornings in remote places. The birds that were silent in the dark begin their special music. The dark runs from the light. Wild and nocturnal animals begin to move toward their burrows, beds, and nests. These things all draw me back to the woods to hunt, to meditate, to enjoy. God's plan and God's design are everywhere evident to any who will open their eyes and ears to exult in it.

(Jack M)

Action Point

Did you realize that the day began in the evening in the Old Testament times? Six o'clock PM was the normal beginning of the new day. People would come home from the day's efforts, activities, and labors to their homes. Meals would be enjoyed, families would catch up on each other, and then they would go off to bed. But the day had just begun, not just ended as we would say today. Why would we consider this? Why might it be significant?

I would suggest that this type of a schedule reflects the goodness of God in a special way. Instead of the rest and sleep coming at the end of the day, when one's energies are exhausted, God's provision of rest and renewal comes at the beginning of the day, before they are needed.

In His goodness, He provides the strength, the rest, the resources ahead of time for the upcoming challenges, not after the need has presented.

He will provide you with the resources to meet your needs. He is faithful!!! He is good!!! Wait on Him, meaning depend upon Him for all your needs!!! He will supply!!! His mercies are new every morning!!! Make Him your portion!!! Begin your work day while you are fresh with a quiet time.

Sportsman's Tip of the Day

Take advantage of the morning. There is always a special chance in the spring turkey hunting season to encounter success early in the day. It is worth the effort to be out and set up, ready for that bird to come in. You can enjoy all the amenities mentioned above as well as being close to God.

March 29, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . We As Humans Are Programmed For Hell Not Heaven (Jack M)

Bible Study Verse

Matthew 7:14 

But small is the Gate and narrow the Road that leads to life, and only a few find It. (NIV)

Thoughts

Choosing the correct path is vitally important. If you choose the wrong path or trail, you will end up where you don't want to go. 

Having adequate directions is critical. Even the GPS units cannot be utterly trusted as we recently found out on a trip. That unit took us quite a ways out of the way to get where we wanted to go. 

Even with compass and maps you have to consider True North and Magnetic North as your route is planned.

(Jack M)

Action Point

Surveys show that most people think they will end up in Heaven. 

I was recently reminded that we as humans are programmed for Hell, not for Heaven. Hell is the default destination for all humans. You have to get to Heaven by the right Way, and His name is Jesus.

Make sure the way you choose is correct and accurate. The way that "feels right" will most often lead to the wrong place.

Someone has said that the problem with the path of sin is that it, "Takes you further than you wanted to go, keeps you longer than you wanted to stay, and costs you more than you wanted to pay."

"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,' " John 14:6 (NIV).

Sportsman's Tip of the Day

Learn to calibrate all electronic devices so they are accurate. Learn to use a compass as well as an electronic GPS device. These devices can get lost, their batteries run out of energy, and there can be other problems. Take a map reading course. Practice that skill. Map reading is an essential skill.  Finally, make sure you have accurate maps.

March 28, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Awaiting The Revelation Of The . . .  (NPS)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 16:23 

The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips. (NKJV)

Thoughts

My husband is an outdoorsman of magnificent proportions. His comfort in the woods is a wonder to me. I grew up camping, but not hunting or fishing. When I married my game warden, I had no idea the adventure upon which I was embarking.

We had decided to take a vacation to Idaho, having heard that the fishing was superb. So, we loaded up our Bronco with float tubes, waders, fly rods, spinning rods, camping gear, and headed out from Arizona for an adventure. We had scoped out many small lakes near the Canadian border to fish. It was late spring and the rivers were dangerously swollen and wild. 

One morning, I sat on the tail gate of our Bronco fastening my waders while my husband fiddled with his fly rod. We heard a crashing, clunking noise coming from the dense, dark woods. My heart began to pound as my imagination ran wild. I sat with my heart in my throat awaiting the revelation of the creature. Out walked a gangly young bull moose. He was perhaps ten yards from my husband and 20 yards from me. Terrified, I screamed, turned around, and catapulted myself through the back end of our Bronco--over the back seat, over the front driver's seat, hit my head on the roof, then the steering wheel, and finally, came to an awkward resting place somewhere between the seat and the dash.

I gathered myself up and peeked over the front seat expecting to see my husband valiantly fighting off this ferocious herbivore. To my amazement, what I did see was both the moose and my husband staring at me with a similar puzzled and befuddled expression. My husband looked at the moose and the moose looked at him. My husband said to the moose, "Go on fella, get on out of here before she really hurts herself." The moose, seemingly glad to comply, turned, and trotted back into the woods. As I made my way out of the vehicle, my husband walked over to inspect my bruised forehead. 

"What were you thinking?" he asked (he asks me that quite often). 

I stated that I thought he was going to eat me! 

"Eat you?" he said with a poorly concealed grin. 

"Yes," I said, "I saw on the Discovery channel--how moose attack!" 

He began to laugh. "Well sure, honey, they can attack, but it must be the right context."

"Oh, sure," I said, "Like I know the right context!" 

He then proceeded to tell me what might actually provoke a moose to attack. Let me tell you, we have had many great laughs over that one! 

(Sara S)

Action Point

When you are with a less experienced person in the woods, be very careful not to belittle them should they respond in a seemingly silly manner to a natural situation. It can be a great time of instruction and good-natured fun. Lessons learned in that context are not forgotten and provide great memories. 

Pray that your heart may be filled with Jesus' wisdom, love, and mercy. Your lips will then follow His lead.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

An empty ice chest serves as an excellent bathtub for small children while tent camping.

March 27, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . New Challenges Are Sure To Make A Better Hunter Out Of You (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Romans 1:8

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. (NKJV)

 

Thoughts

Many things are spoken of throughout the world today. If you just turn on your computer or the TV, you'll be informed instantly of news, gossip, and the newest technology. Pick up a hunting or fishing magazine and learn of the latest, greatest hunting technique or the new record breaking animal that was recently harvested.

How about faith? How often do you hear about faith that is spoken of throughout the world? Unfortunately, we do not hear good reports of faith nearly as often as we hear about worldly things happening around us. This is especially true in a culture that is so full of greed and selfishness. 

(Jimmy S)

Action Point
Pray for a faith that is worthy of telling others about. Faith that God the Father will favor. 

 

Think of your faith as an even more important story than the greatest hunt you've ever been on. Strive to make your faith stand out amongst all others. Live a faith so strong and true that others love to hear about it.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If you've never hunted out of state, think about putting in with a friend or two in another state. You can then experience the challenge of learning new country, hunting by different strategies, and perhaps even experience some extremely different weather. New challenges are sure to make a better hunter out of you. It will, no doubt, make memories worthy of telling!

March 26, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verse

II Corinthians 11:3

But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. (NKJV)

Thoughts

A friend and I were having a conversation recently about rattlesnakes. He told me he was thinking about purchasing a pair of snake gaiters, protective overlays for your pant legs, to protect him from being bit. He went on to say that several thousand people are bitten each year by rattlesnakes. 

After our conversation, I began to think and I even did a little research regarding snake bites. l discovered most people get bit while either handling or messing with the snake somehow just before they got bit. 

Practicing some simple caution around snakes will probably prevent most bites. I have a friend who is considered a professional with reptiles. He's been bitten by rattlesnakes four different times which proves the point; if you handle snakes, you're going to be bit no matter how good you think you are.

(Jimmy S)

Action Point

Isn't it the same with the Devil? We usually get bit when we are toying with things like temptations, lust, and other ungodly things. Perhaps, we become a bit overly confident and we think we can handle it and nothing will happen to harm our loved ones or ourselves. 

Wrong!!! God tells us to simply put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6) and avoid "handling" things that Satan tries to lure us with and we will avoid his painful and marring bite.

God also directs us to step out of the darkness into His light and He will illuminate our paths away from the traps of Satan.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Spring or fall mornings and evenings are dangerous times of the year in regard to seeing snakes. Snakes are out more often warming or cooling their bodies. Usually, during the heat of the day, they stay under cover where they can keep cool. Look and listen:

• Leave snakes alone. Many people are bitten because they try to kill a snake or get a closer look at it.
• Stay out of tall grass unless you wear thick leather boots and remain on hiking paths as much as possible.
• Keep hands and feet out of areas you can't see. Don't pick up rocks or firewood unless you are out of a snake's striking distance. A snake can strike half its length.
• Be cautious and alert when climbing rocks.

March 25, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Some Javelina May Not Know What Happened (Brett M)

Bible Study Verse

Hebrews12:2

Looking unto Jesus, the author and Finisher of our faith, Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the Cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  (NKJV)

Thoughts

A friend and I were hunting javelina on a cold snowy March day. We had climbed to the top of a mesa and located a herd a few hundred yards below us. We began our descent slowly keeping the wind in our face and remaining as quiet as possible. 

They were feeding on roots and cacti and were milling around as we got within a close shooting range. We had glassed up six or seven of them and knew that there were probably more. Now that we had moved in to them, we were only able to locate one. 

I drew my firearm and set my sights just as the javelina went partially behind some catclaw. I waited patiently, firearm drawn, sites set at the point I thought he would show his vitals. During this eternity of waiting, nothing could distract my attention away from this solitary javelina, not even the remainder of the herd as it slowly circled around us. 

It was at that point that one of the other javelina from the herd moved within just feet of us. After my friend's exclamation of "THERE'S ONE!", there was little left of the herd except for the scattering of mud and broken branches as they ran for the hills. 

(BRETT M)

Action Point

Tunnel vision is an interesting thing. Webster defines it as a "constriction of the visual field resulting in the loss of peripheral vision." Yep, that sounds exactly like what I was experiencing on this hunt. It would not be so bad if this had not been the first time. Oh well. We are programmed to believe that tunnel vision is a bad thing, and I guess in most circumstances it is. 

But, in Hebrews the author is telling us to have tunnel vision, "fixing our eyes on Jesus." This should be our goal, our mission, to allow all other peripheral things to escape our eyesight allowing us to focus solely on Him. 

What things in your peripheral vision are distracting you from focusing on Jesus? Is it your job, your income, your hobbies? Whatever it is, know that our focus is on Him and Him alone. With this we "will not grow weary and lose heart!!!"

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Spooked javelina will usually only run a few hundred yards. If you get caught, and they run, just wait. Give it a half an hour or so and start glassing the area you last saw them running to. Additionally, there may still be some stragglers in the area. If the herd was feeding and were somewhat separated from each other, some javelina may not know what happened and may remain behind.

March 24, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . On A Restoration Trip (Brett M)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 51:10-12

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. (NIV)

Thoughts

I must admit, when I first began hunting and fishing my main goal was to harvest. I heard others talking about how they did not care if they got something or not. They just enjoyed the hunt. And for a while I thought either they were just plain crazy or that was their way of coping with coming home empty handed each year. 

I mean how anybody could not care if they harvested or not seemed a completely foreign concept to me. But as the years went by and a small amount of wisdom caught up with my age, I realized that these same people were fulfilling a fundamental need. Not the primitive need to provide for the family by putting food on the table, but the fundamental need of rejuvenation and restoration.

(Brett M)

 

Action Point

David wrote this Psalm during a dark period in his life. He had brought a married woman to his palace, had sex with her, and when he found out she was pregnant he had her husband, who also was a soldier in his army, sent to the front lines in hopes that he would be killed. He was! Then when the child was born it lived for a week. 

David in his Psalm was asking for God to cleanse him, to wash him, create a new heart in him and restore the joy of God's salvation. David needed restoration. But before he could have it, he needed to come clean with God, confess, and turn away from his sins. This is the only way to seek restoration, to first confess and turn from sin thus allowing the Holy Spirit to restore your soul.

 

I find myself needing this restoration much more than hunting or fishing allows. The need to get away and enjoy time in God's country is essential. Just as I have to make time to do other things that are good for me like exercise, going to the dentist, and reading my bible. I have found that it is something that I must make time to do regularly. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Whether you are able to get away for just a couple of hours or for a day or two, small restoration trips are a great way to scout new areas.

 

March 23, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verse

Exodus 15:25-26  

So he cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet. There He made a statute and an ordinance for them, and there He tested them, and said, "If you diligently heed the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the Lord who heals you." (NKJV)

Thoughts

Recently, I was reminded of the healing hand of God as I rescued a bird caught in my children's badminton net.  

The night before, I was called home early from one of my outdoor adventure ministry trips. The call came when my mother who is in the Intensive Care Unit fighting off a serious infection had a scary day. I arrived home after midnight and spent the following morning in the hospital visiting with mom. God is taking care of her and she is now stable.  

I left the hospital and decided to go home and mow the lawn. It had been an emotionally draining night and morning as I attempted to sort through all of it on my own. That is when I noticed the bird caught in the net, hanging upside down, and struggling to get free. 

With my MP3 player kicking out tunes in the background, I began to rescue the victim. I gently clutched his body, began to carefully cut the netting, and weave the string off him. I delicately laid him on the ground after freeing my new feathered friend from his entanglement. 

I was amazed when right on key the lyrics from a Jeremy Camp song belted into my ears. The most melodic, soothing tune came out of my earphones, "The healing hand of God." Tears began to roll down my cheeks. Through a simple gesture, I was reminded of God's presence.  

(Michael T) 

Action Point

The bird was not very cooperative while trying to free him. He kept trying to peck me with his beak. He resisted my help, even though I was carefully rescuing him from harm. The timing of the song and the craziness of my mother's condition all came together in a simple analogy for me on how the healing hand of God works.

God is trying to free us from the bondage of our sins. He has a gentle, but firm grip on our lives. Yet we resist, we gnaw at his work, and then like the bird, we are not very thankful when His work is done. 

God is the mighty healer and rescuer. He not only heals our physical sicknesses, but also our spiritual sicknesses. Run to Him!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

The next time you are out on the deep blue seas or in the woods hunting for your favorite food, bring along a journal and write down your thoughts on the day. You will be amazed at how many interesting spiritual parallels you will come across, which will give you tons of material to share with your kids, your Sunday School class, or another hurting soul God places in your life as a divine appointment orchestrated by Him.

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

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

March 21, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verse  

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

Thoughts

Gifts come in many forms: 

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

So what is the gift from God?

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

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

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

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

(Cliff S)

Action Point

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

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

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