November 30, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Interesting Critter, Porcupine (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Ephesians 6:10-11

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. (NIV)

Thoughts

While out checking on grouse hunters early one Fall morning, I noticed some men standing around a pickup. In the back of the truck were a couple of bird dogs, each with a mouthful of porcupine quills. Some of the men were holding the dogs down while others were trying to pull out the quills. The dogs were pretty vocal about their displeasure over the whole ordeal.

When God made porcupines on the sixth day of creation, he equipped them with some pretty awesome armor. The porcupine can use that armor anytime he thinks danger is near.

Like the porcupine, God has given us His full armor that we can use in times of trouble. Even better than a coat of prickly spines, we are given the armor of Truth, Faith, Righteousness, Salvation, and the Word of God.

(Ron T)

Action Point

To receive God's full armor, we must know Gods truth--the truth will set us free (John 8:32). We need faith that comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). We need righteousness, which comes from faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:22).

With these, we will be able to stand firm in Christ in any situation.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If your dog happens to stumble into a porcupine and receives a few quills, you can remove them fairly easily:

• Take a pair of pliers and something to cover the dog's eyes;
• Grab the quill firmly and close to the skin;
• Give a pull and dislodge the quill. 

November 29, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . I Knew Where They Bedded Down (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

James 1:4

But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. (HCSB)

Thoughts

I had scouted the area regularly for javelina and had routinely seen a herd in the bottom of the valley. I knew that there were eight of them. I knew where they bedded down, where they watered, and even paid attention to what they were eating.

Once the season started, I sat on the mountain side for five days, waiting. Of course I did other things, too--named the clouds, reorganized my back pack, prayed, napped, read, quail called, and drew in the dirt.

Well, you get the idea: the javelina that had so readily been there during my scouting trips had failed to show during hunting season.

(Brett M)

Action Point

God desires to build patience in us. He wants us to be "mature and complete." As this verse indicates, we are neither mature or complete if we are impatient.

This patience is two-fold. He wants us to be patient with Him while praying, reading His Word, and allowing Him to guide and mold our lives. Secondly, He wants us to be patient with each other-- with our spouse, our children, our boss, and even that misguided seventeen-year-old NASCAR driver on his way to work at the local burger barn who just cut you off in traffic.

Remember, He is in the seat next to you, pleased with your patience and smiling at you, just as He was sitting on the side of the mountain with me.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Javelina are some of the easiest and most difficult animals to hunt--difficult sometimes to locate due to their size, ability to blend in, and relatively large home ranges. However, when you locate them, they can be easy to stalk because of their poor eyesight. Approach slowly and down wind. Watch out for other javelina in the area who may sense you.

November 28, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Great Place To Get Stuck (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Mark 10:45

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life -a ransom for many." (HCSB)

Thoughts

On one occasion years ago, we were on the tail end of a weekend junior's hunt. After my son and I had eaten lunch, rested, and prepared for the final evening of the hunt, a woman drove into our camp and told us that a man with a new Jeep had gotten stuck on the top of a nearby mountain. It was late in the afternoon; she was going for help and asking if we could drive our ATVs to the top of the mountain to help the man.

Many thoughts rushed through my mind:

• "This was the final evening of my son's first buck hunt."
• "They shouldn't sell Jeeps to people who do not know how to drive them."
• "If he is stuck now, he will still be there in the morning; I can go help him then."

Upon emerging from this brief state of selfishness, and after my wife patted the tears from my eyes, my son and I drove to the top of the mountain and helped the man.

(Brett M)

Action Point

Serving others sometimes can be a sacrifice. We all have times in our lives when we are asked by God to serve someone else.

Unfortunately, those times rarely seem to fit into our plans. If they fit into our schedule, they would not be a sacrifice. God did not need my help to get that man's Jeep from the top of the mountain. God was perfectly capable of doing it Himself. What God wanted was to teach me to be willing to sacrifice my priorities to serve someone else. In addition, he wanted my son to see his father's willingness (after a minor tantrum and many tears) to be Christ like.

God wants us to serve others as Jesus did - with a joyful heart and mind. If God was willing to sacrifice His own Son for us, how can we not be willing to serve others?

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When traveling in the back country, plan ahead. You may get stuck. Always remember to take a shovel, high lift jack, GPS or topo map, and a cellular or satellite phone.

November 27, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . In The Language Of The Aztecs Mazatzal Means "An Area Inhabited By Deer"(MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 63:1

You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek You; I thirst for You, my whole being longs for You, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. (NIV)

Thoughts

This pack trip was to be a sightseeing trip into the Mazatzal wilderness of Arizona. A couple of years earlier, my son and I had packed in on a deer hunt. I was so impressed with the area that I wanted my wife to see it--lots of game and some very interesting Indian ruins.

Somewhere on the trail in, I took a wrong turn. In the process of finding the trail again, I ran out of water. It was hot for October and I was nervous and uncomfortable. I remember praying for help in finding the trail so I could get my wife to the safety of our destination, a place called Brush Corral.

(Byron S)

Action Point

It must have been dry there in the Judah wilderness when David wrote this Psalm--dry, lonely, and uncomfortable after being hunted by his enemies. Yet, David sought God's face and lifted praise to Him for keeping him safe. His words show total trust in God, with the knowledge that God is sovereign.

There is so much comfort and wisdom in the Psalms. They provide us understanding that others have walked our walk many times over with faith and trust in God, Who helped them through.

Today, we might be dry and thirsty, but by continuing to seek God, tomorrow we will look back and see how He provided for us and cared for us when times were rough. Always remember, as David did, to praise and give thanks even when you think you are alone and times are bad. God truly wants to hear from us all the time!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Always be sure to pack in more than enough water. Stress can really make you thirsty. Camelback water packs are a good choice. They carry more water than a canteen and distribute the weight well on your back.

November 26, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . He Who Has Ears Let Him Hear (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 11:15

He who has ears to hear, let him hear! (NKJV)

Matthew 13:9

"He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" (NKJV)

Mark 7:14 and 16

When He had called all the multitude to Himself, He said to them, "Hear Me, everyone, and understand:  "If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!" (NKJV)

Luke 8:8

"But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold." When He had said these things He cried, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" (NKJV)

Thoughts

Hearing must be important! Jesus stresses the point four times in three different gospels. I can tell you how important it is. A few years ago while hunting with my son in the Kofa Mountains of Arizona, I was almost struck by a rattlesnake that I could not hear. My son heard it and pulled me out of its path just as it struck.

Years of skeet shooting, rifle and pistol practice, without proper ear protection have left me with a hearing impairment. Just this year, I purchased a pair of "pro-ears" to wear while hunting so I can hear and, also, protect what hearing remains.

In these verses, Jesus was emphasizing the point to his disciples--Hear what I am saying! He was not talking about hearing protection, but rather was teaching them to hear the Word of God.

(Byron S)

Action Point

God speaks to us now, just as He spoke to His disciples. He speaks through His Word, our Bible.

Spend time daily reading His word, and you will hear His voice, if you listen quietly. Take time to pause and reflect on what you read.

How do His words fit into your life; what do they say? After all, He made the point four different times, so it must be important to Him.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Find the best hearing protection you can for your children and grandchildren. Their hearing is too important to ignore.

November 25, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Especially The Dogs That We Appreciate and Enjoy (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verse

I Timothy 4:8

For bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. (NASB)

Thoughts

Exercise to prepare for the upcoming seasons. The days afield in pursuit of our favorite quarry are here or near. We plan, we prepare, and we perform the tasks necessary to succeed. We invest large amounts of time, effort and money in our avocations, as well as in our equipment.

If we are smart, we begin to work out to get in shape. We make sure our hunting partners are in shape too, especially the dogs that we appreciate and enjoy. They must be refreshed in their training and given adequate time to be physically ready for their challenges.

(Jack M)

Action Point As women and men of God, we must understand that godliness requires spiritual exercise just as physical fitness requires physical exertion. Let's prepare for what is truly important-- eternity; and not forget that which also has benefit now.

Make daily spiritual exercise a priority. Discipline yourself to be in the Word of God and in prayer. Write a daily quiet time into your schedule. If you miss a day, don't beat yourself up; just get back after it tomorrow.

God is waiting, He will satisfy your soul, and He will strengthen you as you exercise the privilege of His presence.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Prepare physically for the days ahead. Make sure you are in shape. Exercise ahead of that hunting trip. Have a physical by your doctor. Make sure your dogs are in shape too. Take them to the vet. Make sure all of their immunizations are up to date, and their health is good. Exercise them daily. It will make the days afield far more enjoyable and profitable.

November 24, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Enjoy This Day While Reflecting Upon God's Specific Blessings (MK, FCS)

Happy   Thanksgiving   Day   2011

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 100

Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth. Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing. Know that the LORD Himself is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations. (NASB)

Thoughts

The Thanksgiving Day holiday is a uniquely American Holiday! President George Washington, on Oct 3, 1789, signed a decree for a "General Thanksgiving" that in part stated that the day was  "to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God."

The theme of Thanksgiving is an attitude to be shared by all, all the time!!!

(Jack M)

Action Point

Please enjoy this day while reflecting upon God's specific blessings upon you, your family, and your loved ones.

Enjoy the food, the love, the warmth of relationships as a celebration of God's goodness!  

Share the day with those in need.  Invite them to your table.  Take them a meal, or the provisions for a meal. 

In sharing with others, you will find even greater fulfillment and joy as you imitate the Greatest Giver of all, our God and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Remember to share your wild game with those in need. There are many programs at the state and local levels that welcome the donation of game taken in fair chase as sources of protein for the needy.

November 23, 2011   Today's Photograph . . . . Fixing Our Eyes On The Head  (MQ)

Bible Study Verse Hebrews 12:2 Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NIV)    Thoughts Minnesota is managing several zones for trophy whitetails by allowing either sex harvest and restricting the buck harvest to a minimum of 4 pt/side. This special regulation should eventually enable hunters to potentially see more mature bucks. This past season, I traveled back to southern Minnesota to hunt whitetails with my son. He and I realized that we had to be careful when deer were moving through the timber. A good, clear scope or binoculars were necessary to spot a spike hidden behind an ear or to see the brow tines on a 8-pointer. Fixing our eyes on the head was critical. (Tom L)    Action Point " Fixing our eyes on Jesus" is also critical spiritually during the Christmas season. Do we find ourselves getting "caught up" in the Black Friday madness or the holiday stress? What better peace can we experience than realizing why Jesus came to earth and focus on the Christmas Story.  "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests," Luke 2:14 (NIV).    Sportsmen's Tip of the Day When hunting in heavy timber, use a 11/2x41/2 or 2x7 variable scope. Make sure you keep it on low power, initially, to find that deer sneaking through the brush.

November 22, 2011  

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

Bible Study Verse

Psalms 27:1

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (NKJV)

Thoughts

My brother came down to visit me, my wife and I took him flounder gigging. Floundering, as it is called along the Texas Coast, has been described as, "too much fun to be legal." To gig a flounder, one gets a propane lantern, a gig (a pole with a spike in one end), and a stringer. After dark, you walk along the bank in the saltwater bays. The flounder comes into the shallow water to feed at night. As you walk along in a few inches of water, the lantern light will reveal the fish laying on the bottom. If it is of legal size, you stab it with the gig and put in on the stringer....after getting splashed with saltwater and some mud, of course.

On this particular night, I was following along in the boat as they were walking. Just at the edge of the lantern light were two red eyes watching. These eyes were directly in their path and never moved as they walked closer. Finally, my wife and brother got scared enough to ask me to pick them up.

We motored up to discover that the red eyes were attached to the cutest little three-foot alligator that you ever did see. Those two--scared of a baby alligator!

(Chris Q)

Action Point

Just as the lantern light revealed possible danger of the alligator to us, the Light of Jesus will also reveal danger to us.

Danger may come in the form of temptation. I Corinthians 10:13 promises, "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, Who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it," (NKJV).

 

During times of temptation and danger, we need to focus on the Truth of His Word and be obedient by staying in the Light of Jesus reflected in John 8:12, "Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, 'I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the Light of Life,' " (NKJV).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Whether you are out floundering or wade fishing in the bay or surf, make sure that your stringer is very long and has a float. This keeps your catch away from your body in the event that it attracts a shark or alligator.

November 21, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . View From Plane (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 9:28-29

And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to Him, "Yes, Lord." Then He touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith let it be to you." (NKJV)

Thoughts

When I am flying my airplane to Europe, I look down from 33,000 feet and see a cold North Atlantic Ocean below me. Here I am, sitting in the cockpit of an airplane that weighs 500,000 plus pounds, and I wonder why it stays in the air. I know and understand Bernoulli's Principle and Newton's Laws that tell me how it stays aloft; but that does not give me faith that it will fly.

I, also, know that, if the three engines quit, we just became test pilots flying what will soon become a submarine. Again, I understand all the principles that make it fly. But when I look out at the wing, I cannot actually see them at work.

It takes a lot of faith to know that something that I cannot see will keep this monster aloft. I heard a statement, or read it somewhere, and always remembered it: "Faith is believing what you cannot see, and God's reward for that kind of faith is seeing what you believe."

(Chris Q)

Action Point

Hebrews 11:1 states, "Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see," (NLT)

Faith is believing in something that you cannot see and cannot touch. Jesus tells us in His teachings to have faith. According to Matthew 9:28-29, by believing, we are exercising faith. I look out at the wing on my airplane and I believe that it will work. Seeing it happen is the reward for my faith.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

To be prepared for emergencies, Ann Southerland would make her students tie a bowline behind their backs . . . hanging upside down in their kayaks. Don't forget to check your emergency equipment and know your emergency procedures before you go afield. Also, it is important to take a CPR class as well as First-Aid courses.

November 20,, 2011  

Bible Study Verses
Colossians 4:5-6

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (NIV)

Thoughts

Who are the outsiders Paul is referring to? They may be those outside the faith. But, they may, also, be those outside your church, small group, immediate circle of friends, or your friends at work. They could include those outside your camp with whom you come into contact in the mountains.

You never know when God will open the door for you to say a few words about Him and His impact in your life. Always be ready to share your faith with anyone at anytime. If you're available, God will bring opportunities to you to tell others about Him.

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Watch your words and actions. Let them be seasoned with wisdom, compassion, and love.

Remember! Your behavior today will most likely be the topic of conversation around someone's dinner table tonight!!! What will they say . . .

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Be ever alert when in the woods. The wise hunter hunts as soon as he walks out of camp and until he walks back in.

November 19, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . By Finishing . . .   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

John 17:4

"I have brought You glory on earth by finishing the work You gave Me to do." (NIV)

Thoughts

Jesus spoke the above words to the Father just prior to His death. We can apply them in many ways: 

• To an employer - "Yes, I completed the task you gave me."
• To a parent or Grandparent - "Yes, I cleaned the garage (or my room, etc)."
• To a wife - "Yes Dear, I did the entire list of honey-do's you gave me."
• To our Heavenly Father - "Yes, Father, I brought you glory by letting you live in and through me and by being the person you asked me to be, and I completed those things that you set out for me to do."

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Search your heart and in humility determine what God is asking you to do. Seek His will and His guidance and ask Him what task(s) He wants you to perform to bring Him glory while you're here in this life. Then, go do them, completely!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Set the example for those around you by following the game laws. It's one of the ways we can be an awesome influence to our friends and family.  It will please God by showing our fellow sportsmen that when submitting to the law of the land, we are, also, submitting to God.

November 18, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . T Was Lost!  (Janet B)

Bible Study Verse

Luke 15:16

And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' (NASB)

Thoughts

I remember how anxious I was to hunt deer that first year in Minnesota. A neighbor told me there was a good population of deer on the north side of Mitchell Lake. There was fresh snow, so I decided to do some tracking and still hunting.

As soon as I entered the woods, I jumped several deer that were bedded down in thick cover. I didn't get a shot, so I decided to wait and let the deer settle down. It started to snow again, but I thought that I would be able to follow my tracks out of the woods.

I tracked those deer for about a half- mile. It began to snow more heavily and then turned into blizzard conditions; so I decided to find my way back to the truck. I couldn't distinguish my tracks from other tracks. I started to panic and run through the woods! I was lost!

I soon tired and eventually settled down. I found a Balsam Fir stand that protected me from the snow. I walked several directions from the Balsam stand until I came across an old timber trail. That timber trail gave me hope. The Lord guided me in the right direction. I eventually came out on a county road two miles from my truck.

(Tom L)

Action Point

At that time of my life, I was lost spiritually. There was no hope for me after death. If you are lost and don't know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, your only hope is to place your faith and trust in Him. Realize that we are all sinners and Christ died to pay the penalty for our sins. Read Romans 5:8. Accept Him today.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Don't make all the classic errors that I did. Before going into an unfamiliar area, study a topographical map of your area. Always bring a compass and survivor pack. Don't forget to let someone know where you are going and what time you will be returning home.

November 17, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Pingora Peak Above Lonesome Lake At Cirque Of The Towers In The Wind River Mountain Range, Wyoming (NPS)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 121:1-2 and 7-8

I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever. (NASB)

Thoughts

Because of my husband's interest in hunting and fly-fishing, we chose to build our retirement home out West. We looked at property at all elevations. Many of the rides up the mountains made me grab the dash with white knuckles, as we drove narrow trails with deep drop-offs and sharp switchback curves. The lots at the top of the mountain were heavily wooded; views were limited--trees and nothing else. It seemed that the best view of the mountain was from the valley below.

Having decided to build in the river valley, we are now privileged to watch the shadows of clouds moving across the mountains to reveal a majestic creation with a multitude of colors and textures. Depending on the season and the food supply, deer, moose, and big horn sheep roam past our property. Seeing the magnitude of the Lord's creation, we gain strength from the assurance that God is in control of all.

(Sharon L)

Action Point

Whether hunting, fishing, hiking, or just looking out the window, spend time every day enjoying the Lord's creation. Seeing the magnitude of His power helps keep your daily life in perspective.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Altitude does make a difference! When planning a trip to the mountains, give your body a couple of days to adjust to the altitude change before hiking, hunting, or starting any strenuous activity.

November 16, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . I Still Remember That Fish  . . . (Yvonne M)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 4:1

Listen, [my] sons, to a father's discipline, and pay attention so that you may gain  understanding, (HCSB)

Thoughts

My father took me fishing at a very young age. I was three-years old when I first went in the boat with him. My mother was extremely upset and most of my body was covered by flotation devices! It's amazing that I could move at all.

Then I caught my first fish--a white bass from the Fox River! Now, at 44 years old, I still remember that fish coming into the boat, with a lot of help from my Dad.

As the years passed, there was always advice that my Dad gave me, passed on to him by his father. We fished a lot together when I was younger, and still occasionally get the chance to spend some time together to wet a line.

Even when we don't fish together, we always talk about the fish we have caught and ones we are still after; and my father's instruction continues.

(Jim C)

Action Point

Always be open to new insights and instructions, especially from people who have hunted and fished longer than you. None of us will ever know it all.

The outdoors and its adventures are so ongoing and changing that each one of us will never experience it completely. However, since each of us learns something new through different encounters, we become wiser learning from one another.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

White bass are a hard-hitting, great fighting fish. Lipless crank baits are a great way to catch them. By removing the rear treble and replacing it with a feathered treble, you will increase the lure's action and attracting capabilities; and catch more fish.

   

November 15, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . You Will Be Like A Tree Firmly Planted (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 1:1-3

How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD,

And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers. (NASB)

Thoughts

It's amazing what can happen to you, your life, and the people around you, when you do things with God first in your heart.  

   

I know that I have been blessed with the love of the outdoors--watching the sun come up on a lake in northern Manitoba. The colors that God paints the sky as the fog rolls off to unveil a new day--leave me breathless, along with the smell of pine trees and the ever-present allure of big fish. It's at those times that I feel like that grateful tree planted by streams of water.  

The fruit I yield is passing on what I have learned and experienced to others. My leaves will never wither as long as I branch out and share what knowledge I have gained. Those are the times that I feel more prosperous than the richest man.  

(Jim C)

Action Point 

Never keep to yourself what insight, tip, or tactic you have learned. Always share it with others so that they may make it even greater than when you discovered it. In that way, it becomes worth more than if you would have just kept it for yourself.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When fishing for Northern Pike, as your lure gets closer to the boat, speed up your retrieve. This will often cause a massive reflex strike from a following fish. Be prepared; these can be some of the most explosive strikes you will ever encounter!

November 14, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Majestic Bull (Yvonne M)

Bible Study Verse

I John 1:7

But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. (NASB)

Thoughts

Awhile back, I was blessed to draw a bull elk tag for Arizona's coveted Unit 9. On the evening of the first day, a large bull entered a clearing about 200 yards from me. Once I had closed the distance, my shot rang true and the majestic bull lay 75 yards from where he was hit.

As I cleaned and quartered the elk, I was amazed at how powerful the blood was. Blood that normally carries life can be disrupted by one well-placed shot; and suddenly, 75 yards later, life ceases to exist.

Blood is the key ingredient that gives us all life.

(Brett M)

Action Point

If blood is so powerful that it keeps that majestic animal alive, just think about how powerful the blood of the Creator of the universe was and is!!! When Christ died on Calvary, He shed His blood to "purify us from all sin."

While blood brings life, whether we are people, elk, or quail, the blood of Christ gives us eternal life. Now, that is powerful blood!!!

As Christians, we can become complacent about God's sacrifice, knowing that He loves us and will forgive us. Let us not trample underfoot the precious blood that He shed for us. Always strive to be obedient to His Word and His will!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Although blood and bodily fluids bring life, they can, also, carry infectious diseases. Make sure that you always carry several pairs of surgical/latex gloves for cleaning your harvest.  

November 13, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . July 4th Parade, Fireman Watering Willing Observers in Dubois, WY (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Philippians 4:8

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. (NASV)

Thoughts

There is an old saying in the firefighting world, "Telegraph, Telephone, Tell-a-fireman." The implication is that firefighters tend to be gossipy.

When I go hunting, I often go with a group of other firefighters. At end of the day we're sitting around the campfire in the evening and the conversations often turns to work and people at work. If I am not careful, before I know it, I can get caught up in the gossip.

These discussions only lead to one outcome--hurting others. Not a good thing!

(Brett M)

Action Point

I have not always been a firefighter and I know that this kind of behavior is in all kinds of professions and settings. It may be with non-Christian friends with whom we hunt, or Christian friends with whom we go to church.

The important thing is to recognize that the words of gossip are rarely if ever, true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, or admirable.

Let's take the lead to show Christ to others by not only refusing to participate in such activities; but to re-direct the conversation to a more excellent or praiseworthy direction.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you're the last one to turn in at night, make sure the campfire is fully extinguished. Once you think you have poured an adequate amount of water on the coals, pour more.

November 12, 2011   Today's Photograph . . . . Big Horn Sheep (MQ)

Bible Study Verse Matthew 25:13 "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." (NKJV) Thoughts In just a few weeks, hunting season opens.  I am already seeing seasoned hunters out, watching their favorite spots and probably wondering, "Is the game still there this year?" Watching is an important part of the hunt if we want to find a trophy. Jesus tells us to watch for His return--be mindful of His return and be ready! He is our Trophy!!! (Byron S) Action Point Watching is not passive; it involves our interaction with the Word of God. We need to understand the times in which we live by keeping ourselves immersed in God's Word, the Bible. Use your knowledge to encourage your family and friends to also be watching for His return.   Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Sitting on a high overlook, glassing with a steady pair of binoculars, is a great way to find out where the game is hanging out. Try securing your binoculars on a tripod. It is amazing how much more you can see with a steady hand.

November 11, 2011   

Today's Photograph . . . Military On Piestewa Peak, Formerly Know As Squaw Peak, Arizona (Cliff S)

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

Bible Study Verse

Nehemiah 4:20

Wherever you hear the trumpet sound, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us. (HCSB)

Thoughts

This verse reminds me: I don't have to fight my spiritual battles alone; I am to listen for the battle call; join my fellow soldiers for Christ; and that God, Himself, will fight for me!

As I think about what Veterans Day means to all of us, I recognize that I have not had to fight for the freedoms that I enjoy in this country. Each of us has had a family member or friend who has fought or died, or is fighting for our freedoms. Wherever the trumpet calls, the fighting men and women of this country will gather to fight freedom's battles for us--to protect us from those who would take away our freedom.

In the favorite song by a group named Avalon, entitled, "For Freedom." One of the verses tells of thunder in the valley, artillery, and a soldier being wounded. As he dies, he reminds us that, if it is for freedom that he has fought, it is for freedom that he has said, "Goodbye". As I type this, just as my eyes filled with tears while listening to the song, they are filled with tears now as I think of what these brave warriors have done for us, what they have done for me. All I can say is, "THANK YOU, AMERICAN SOLDIERS! I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOU ARE LOVED AND APPRECIATED!!!"

Action Point

When you see someone in the uniform of this country, stop and thank him or her for what they are doing for us. This would also include police and fire fighters. Tell them that they are important, and that you pray for them daily. Then, pray!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Never take your hunting and fishing privileges for granted. Never take for granted your right to own a firearm. There are those who would take away these freedoms. The next time the polls are open, do the one thing we can all do--vote for those individuals who take seriously their oath to defend the Constitution of this great country!

November 10, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Elk On The Run (Yvonne M)

Bible Study Verses

Ephesians 6:16-17

In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God's word. (HCSB)

Thoughts

Each Spring I watch these elk--they bunch up during antler drop and stay together until early Fall. During that time, they progress from antlerless to soft new antlers; then finally, begin to spar with one another, sharpening the antlers and their skills. When they part ways for the rut, the sparring becomes battle, sometimes ending in death.

We are like these elk--if we don't practice the Word each day, our defense is puny, and we are sparring Satan with a dull pocket knife.

(Byron S)

Action Point

If you read and study the Word each day, you will be given a sharp two-edged sword with which to go into battle.

Be ready with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Carry a good whet stone or pocket steel with you when out in the field. You will be better prepared to clean, skin, and bone out your game with a good sharp knife.

November 9, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Crowded Water (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 42:1

As a deer longs for streams of water, so I long for You, God. (HCSB)

Thoughts

Set your heart to seek the LORD. Stir up your soul to focus on HIM and HIS goodness. Invest time seeking HIM through Bible reading, meditation, and prayer.

Desiring GOD does not come naturally--it is supernatural!!! GOD's HOLY SPIRIT gives us the desire and the dynamic power to do GOD's will. Philippians 2:12c-13 instructs, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is GOD who is working in you, [enabling you] both to will and to act for HIS good purpose," (HCSB). But we must do our part to cooperate with HIM by investing our time, talent, and treasure; and by dedicating the temple of our bodies to HIM.

May our desire for God grow to the point that we long for Him, desiring our daily experience with God in the Word and in prayer!!! We were created to know HIM and enjoy HIM. True peace, joy, and blessing are found in HIM alone!!!

(Jack M)

Action Point

Discipline is necessary for success in life. Set a time each day to be in the WORD and in prayer, fellowshipping with the LORD. Don't be legalistic, but do be consistent. As we read and pray, our desire for GOD will grow. We will be rewarded with HIS peace and power!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Take advantage of the dry times in the field. Set your blind or your stand near water sources, or the trails between bedding areas and these sources. These are often productive  later in the day, especially in hotter and dryer weather. The game will come for the water, and may well present you with the opportunity to harvest a trophy!

November 8, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . The Sweet Sounds Leads Him to His Death (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

James 1:13-15

When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. (NIV)

Thoughts

Wild turkey hunting is exciting! You give a few yelps on your favorite call, and a gobble comes back--the big old Tom is coming! He thinks he is coming to fulfill his desire to mate. But instead, the lure of the sweet sounds leads him to his death.

This is like sin. Sin entices us--lures us, calls us--to indulge, enjoy, to involve ourselves in its temporary pleasures. But what is so alluring and seems so exciting leads us to death, both physically and spiritually.

God has provided Jesus Christ as the payment for sin. His call leads to abundant life. Each one of us must accept Him. Don't be lured to destruction by sin! Accept God's forgiveness in Christ and enjoy abundant life, here and hereafter.

(Jack M)

Action Point

When you hear the call of sin--the invitation to participate in what seems so sweet-- consider the results. Sin always takes you further than you want to go; keeps you longer than you wanted to stay, and costs more than you wanted to pay. The temptation is not the sin. Say "NO!" to the temptation. Cry to God in prayer, and leave the temptation behind.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Practice with your calls long before the season begins. Also make sure the calls are conditioned. Slate and glass calls need to have the surfaces conditioned. Scotch Brite works great for slate calls, and sand paper on glass surfaced calls. Box calls need adjusted, before the season begins.

November 7, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Good Day Fishing On A Lake (MQ)

Bible Study  Verses

Philippians 4:6-7

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)

Thoughts

I asked my oldest son what was one of his most memorable moments. He said it was when we were at Hyalite Lake in Montana. We brought our float tubes together, held hands and prayed to our Heavenly Father. It was 6:00 a.m.; the morning sun was glowing behind the mountain peaks, and there was a foggy mist on the lake. What a majestic sight! You could feel God's presence.

On opening day of deer hunting in Minnesota, my two sons and I were walking on a trail to our deer stands. Before we split up on our separate trails, one of my sons asked if we could pray. With all of the anxiety associated with opening day of deer hunting, our prayers brought peace to my heart, knowing that we were in God's hands and He would keep us safe. I am blessed to see the importance of prayer in each of my sons' life.

(Tom L)

Action Point

Before going to work, school, or on trips, spend time in prayer with your family. It's a great way to start the day. Don't forget to thank God for the answers to prayer.

Sportsmen's Devotional

When you are walking single file on a trail, make sure you unload your firearm; and ask the rest of your party to check their firearms.

November 6, 2011  

Today's Photograph . . . . Trout, The Thrill For The Diligent Fly Fisherman (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Acts 4:32

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. (NIV)

Thoughts

I remember walking along the Rush River in Wisconsin looking for a place to wet a fly. I met a gentleman fishing, so I stopped and asked him how he was doing. He replied he was doing very well with one of his own fly patterns. He insisted on giving me a couple of flies and told me to try this stretch of the river. I thanked him for sharing, and he headed upstream. I caught several nice fish and was very thankful for his thoughtfulness.

Later that spring, some of my students expressed an interest in fly fishing. I taught them how to tie some simple patterns and we went fishing together. As I upgraded my equipment, I gave away some of my equipment to them. They wanted to pay me; but I thought of that gentleman on the Rush, and told them that fly fishermen don't take money for flies or used equipment - we share! This started a long-lasting relationship with these young people. I was blessed ten-fold!

(Tom L)

Action Point

Dig out some of that old equipment and get someone started fly fishing. It's a great opportunity to mentor, to witness, and to be a role model for young people!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Try substituting a red thorax on your hare's ear instead of turkey quill. It has worked well on several streams and lakes. We call it the "bloody" hare's ear.