February 17, 2012
Today's Photograph . . . . Pheasant (Rebecca L) |
Luke 12:24
Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap; they have no storeroom nor barn, and yet God feeds them; how much more valuable you are than the birds! (NIV)Thoughts
God's existence, goodness, and provision for all creation is evident in His care of animals and birds. Instinctual actions and reactions protect wild creatures from danger.
I witnessed a hen pheasant fake an injury from a cycle bar mower to protect her young. I thought she was hurt. She crawled away from me, dragging a wing, walking lopsidedly, and pretending to be severely hurt. She would attempt to fly as I got closer, seemingly able to fly only a few feet. After I was about 50 yards from where my efforts had begun, she sprang into the sky, flying away completely uninjured.
She had pretended to be injured in order to lead me away from her young. God instilled that ability into her genetic code to protect her and her young. His goodness is manifold, yet He says that you are more valuable than they are!
(Jack M)
Action Point
Pause to think about how God provides for you--clothing, shelter, food, medical care, health, and things to enjoy! These things tell us that God places immense value on all human life. He values us so much that He provided a Way for us to spend all eternity with Him in Heaven. That Way is found singularly in Jesus Christ. Psalm 46:10 encourages us to "Be still, and know that I am God."
Meditate on God's providential care of all creatures. Take time to reflect on how it all points back and gives glory to God who is the Creator. Thank God for His goodness and providential care of yourself and all created things.
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Optics are important in the field. Buy the best you can afford when it comes to binoculars, optical sights, and spotting scopes. Carry a small repair kit for eye glasses. Even if you don't wear them, another person's day may be saved by having a kit available. They are very small and lightweight.
