May 30, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Dutch Oven Food Is Outstanding (Jack M)

Bible Study Verses

John 6:32-33  

Jesus said to them, "Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the Bread from Heaven, but it is My Father Who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the Bread of God is the Bread that comes down from Heaven and gives Life to the world." (NIV)

Thoughts  

Why does food cooked in the outdoors seem so good? Whether it is freshly perked coffee, a pan fried trout cooked over an open fire, smores (toasted marshmallows, placed between chocolate, and then graham crackers), roasted hot dogs, or whatever, food cooked and eaten outdoors seems so much better than that cooked at home. 

Those who specialize in Dutch Oven Cooking amaze me. Their food is outstanding, and they can do such a wide variety of foods that it will astound you. 

Haven't tried it? Make the time to attend a demonstration of Dutch Oven Cookery where you may taste the items, and you will learn how great that food is.

(Jack M)

Action Point

What is your favorite? Breakfast? Lunch? Dinner? What is your favorite restaurant? Where does your spouse or family want to go when you go out?

Food is an enjoyable, but temporary commodity. We are full tonight, but tomorrow we wish to eat again. And some of us won't wait till tomorrow.

God uses food, or bread to describe Jesus' role in our lives. The True "Bread" or Food from Heaven is Jesus. He is the One sent from God to meet and satisfy our hungers and needs.

Cultivate a hunger for Jesus!!! Desire Him!!! Read the Bible daily to learn more of Him and to satisfy your soul!!!

Just as we need food to maintain our strength and physical health, we need Christ and regular intake of Him and from Him to maintain spiritual health!!! Plan a daily quiet time. Though it is a mystery, Christ said later in John 6:35, "Then Jesus declared, "I am the Bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty," (NIV). 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Ever try hobos? You may have a different name for them. Take some of your favorite foods that are fresh, cut them up and place them in some heavy aluminum with a favorite meat, fold them into a pouch, and throw them on the coals a while. We have used carrots, onions, celery, potatoes, hamburger, cabbage and more. When done, you have a complete, satisfying and tasty meal. 

May 29, 2012   

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

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 1:1-3

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the Law of the Lord, and who meditates on His Law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,   which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither-whatever they do prospers.  (NIV)

Thoughts

As a hunter, I want to be associated with other sportsmen who will be law abiding and give wise counsel in all situations. Likewise, I want to grow in my Christian life and my walk with Jesus.

God's plan for growth is to avoid the counsel of foolish individuals and to listen to wise counsel. Wise counsel is best found in His word. His instructions are to meditate on it day and night. In other words, where I go, so should God's words--in my thoughts and in my actions. There are also two promises here, rewards for our obedience: stability and prosperity. But, there is action required on our part--meditate on the Word. 

Another observation about this passage: David chose to address negative counsel first. Now, considering today's worry about self-esteem, it would seem that he would have addressed the positive first. I think that the writer may be indicating that it is always easy to find someone who will give us free advice and counsel, and it's usually worth just what we pay for it. 

However, if we desire to grow in God and gain wisdom in our walk with Him, we must be in His Word. 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

If you want to grow in your faith and in your walk with God, you must spend time in the Bible. Read, study, and meditate on God's Word daily.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you want to be a good marksman, you must practice. Get out to the range often and burn up a box of cartridges. Practice will help you when the time comes for that shot of a lifetime.

May 28, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  Flowers Decorating A Soldier's Grave At A National Cemetery (MQ)

In   Honor   Of   Our   Military   Heroes,  Thank   You!!!     Memorial   Day   2012 May   God   Bless   America

Bible Study Verse

Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (NKJV)

  

Thoughts

In honoring the graves of Confederate soldiers casualties of the battle at Shiloh, southern ladies first noticed the destitute graves of the Union soldiers, who were responsible for the loss of their loved ones, and, also, decorated their graves with flowers. Truly they acted within priceless respect and rare forgiveness. As many as 12 different instances of decorating graves all, but one occurred in the South.

Major General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization made up of Union Veterans, on May 5, 1868 named May 30th as Decoration Day to commemorate fallen soldiers by adorning their graves with flowers. His statement follows, 1"We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance....Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic."

After World War I, this honor included all men and women who died in any war not just Civil War casualties. By an act of Congress in 1971, Memorial Day became a national holiday. In 2000, Congress passed The National Moment of Remembrance Act which requests all Americans to pause at 3 p.m. at their local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence in remembrance of all those who have died in military service to America.

How many public text books are teaching this history on Memorial Day?  Many of our young men and women are being short changed in their education by omission. This is a sad injustice. We encourage parents, educators, and the young to visit Wallbuilders.com to learn the rest of the story on America's history. It is truly unbelievable what you will discover that has been purposely been omitted. 

This is our one holiday that honors our true heroes. Our Freedom that so many take for granted has been written in history by the blood of our sacrificed military men and women. May God bless each of their families. 

(JQ)

Action Point

The loss of one soldier is an extreme price to pay for our Freedom. May we honor their sacrifice by living, saying "Thank You" to any we meet in uniform, following God's direction, imitating Jesus Christ's Example, and thoroughly meditating and being grounded in the living Word of God, the Bible. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Within your community are sons and daughters of our sacrificed military that could sure use some mentoring. Pray and ask God for direction and bless them with the gift of a mentored hunt or a fishing trip. It won't bring the loss of their parent back, but it will bring distraction and fun in numerous ways. You'll be blessed, too. 

 

May 27, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Before The weather Got Too Cold . . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Luke 6:47-48

Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. (NKJV)

Thoughts

My son and I decided that this year we are going to build an ice shack. Last winter, we missed a lot of good fishing because it was just too cold to sit outside on a giant block of ice. 

We started our project in the Fall before the ice up and before the weather got too cold to work outside. We found some used lumber from a construction site that the owners wanted removed, so we didn't have a bunch of money stuck into the shack. 

Once we get finished and the ice forms on the lakes, we will be ready for action no matter what the weather is doing outside. 

(Ron T)

Action Point

It's a good idea to build your faith before troubles hit; and troubles will come (John 16:33). Since faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Rom. 10:17), you can build and strengthen your faith everyday by reading and meditating on it, the Word. 

It's kind of like preparing for an extreme hunt in the mountains. You work out all summer getting your body in shape for the hunt. When Fall rolls around, you are physically fit for the challenges. Whether you are building faith or an ice shack, it's a lot easier to build before the storm hits.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Fish can get pretty finicky when fishing through the ice. Sometimes little things, such as too big of a bobber, can keep them from biting. Try using a small bobber, one that just keeps the bait off the bottom.

May 26, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Rest Of The Herd Will Usually Follow .  .  .  (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ezekiel 33:19

And if a wicked person turns away from their wickedness and does what is just and right, they will live by doing so. (NIV)

Thoughts

Trying to turn a herd of buffalo can be a tough job. When buffalo get it in their heads that they want to go a certain direction and you want them to go elsewhere, they usually end up going their way.

If by chance you can get ahead of them and turn the lead cow, the rest of the herd will usually follow. However, it is important to take a fast and trustworthy horse along with you.

(Ron T)

Action Point

If we are not on God's path, He wants us to turn, do a complete 180 degree pivot and get on His path. Through His forgiveness, none of the sins we committed while going the wrong way will be remembered. "None of the sins that person has committed will be remembered against them. They have done what is just and right; they will surely live," Ezekiel 33:16 (NIV). 

As a matter of fact, the sins we committed are removed.  "As far as the East is from the West, 

so far has He removed our transgressions from us," Psalms 103:12 (NIV). That's a long way!!! 

I have heard people say that they can forgive but they won't forget. I might have even said it myself a time or two. I'm so glad that when God forgives my sins, He also forgets them. If we ask Him about the sins we have committed in the past, He will say, "What sins???"

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If in the future, you are planning a horseback ride, make sure to check your tack before you hit the trail. I have seen some pretty nasty horse wrecks caused by bad stirrup leathers or worn-out latigos. Replacement of bad parts before the ride can help keep horse and rider safe.

May 25, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Hunter Ed Instructor Helping A Hunter Clean His Bird (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Deuteronomy 6:5-9

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.  Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. (NIV)

 

Thoughts
Most outdoors people are more than willing to talk about their latest trip, discuss the pros and cons of the latest fishing or hunting equipment they have used, or the latest magazine article or TV show they have seen on their favorite sport. I knew a young man that would spend hours on the telephone talking to buddies about his latest trip afield or afloat. Even the professional anglers and guides love to talk about their latest catches. They may not share exactly where they caught the lunker, but they will gladly share the rest of the information.

We are passionate about our sport and not bashful about sharing information.
(Tom B)

Action Point
Moses was pretty passionate about his love for the Lord, spreading information to whoever would listen or had eyes to see. "Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates," Deuteronomy 6:7-9 (NIV).

Anglers and hunters proudly wear fishing and hunting equipment patches upon their shirts and jackets. You will find a line of folks waiting to receive a free hat or T-shirt if they know that a displayer at an outdoor show is giving them away. Our trucks and cars display the outdoor organization decal that we support.

How about the same zeal for the Lord? Talk openly with others about what the Lord is doing in your life. Who knows, they may be going through the same thing.  

 

How many people call their friends and spend time on the phone talking about what the preacher or minister said on Sunday morning? The Sunday sermon isn't relegated to one day. 

 

There are more and more Christian youth fishing and hunting organizations forming across the US. Get involved with one. They are great avenues for communication with youth, and they are fun. Start one within your own church. 

 

Don't be bashful in talking with your own children about some of the "tuff" topics of growing up. Bring in how God can be part of the situation. Share your own life as you grew up. Your kids can see that mom or dad is really "real". Get passionate about what you believe in-the saving love and grace of Jesus Christ! 

 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

The daily devotionals provided by Sportsmen's Devotionals.com are an excellent way to pass on your passion for your Lord. Not only do the devotionals pass on great outdoor tips and stunning outdoor photography, but they also pass on great tips for living the Christian life or for those who don't know him how to find Him. Pass the website address along to friends and strangers you meet and talk with about the outdoors. Spread the Word of the Lord; get passionate about it!!!

May 24, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .  The Bass That Was Just Looking Before Might . . . .  (Jimmy S)

Bible Study Verse

Galatians 6:6

Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor. (NIV)

Thoughts

Anglers, especially bass anglers, are known for their ability to take an "off-the-shelf" lure, make a few adjustments to the bait, and have it performing better than the manufacturer ever planned.

Jerk baits, the Bomber Long As or the Storm Thunder Sticks, rest on top of the water when not retrieved, but dive under the water between 1-2 feet when retrieved. Some enterprising professional bass anglers strategically place a weight in the bait so it would suspend under water at a certain depth in the water column. Now they are reaching a whole new group of bass that they weren't getting to before. Adding weight to a lure has become the hottest new thing out there.

Lure manufacturers quickly took instruction and advice from the pros. Soon they were mass producing suspended crank baits for all anglers.

(Tom B)

Action Point

Sportsmen share information amongst themselves on how they are finding deer and how they are catching fish. "At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need," II Corinthians 8;14b (NIV). 

When I spend quiet time in the word, physically and mentally blotting out all outside distractions, most of the time the Lord speaks to me in His quiet, small voice. I journal my thoughts and the Lord's prompting. I don't want to lose these precious moments. I share my gleanings with the Lord; sometimes I share these thoughts with other people.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

One of the most basic angler modifications is correcting a foul running crank bait that is not running straight. You bend the eye or the line tie of the bait either one way or the other to straighten out the retrieve of the bait.

Same principle when you are fishing around a dock and you sure would like the bait to dart or run up under the dock on the retrieve. Bend the eye or line tie in the correct direction to make the lure go where you want it to run. The bass that was just looking before might become a striking fish now.

May 23, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . .Let Your Light Shine Before Others (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 5:14-16

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven. (NIV)

 

Thoughts

After retiring a few years ago, the Lord gave my wife and me the opportunity to travel. We drove our 5th wheel camper to Florida to visit my son and his family and to do some ocean fishing. 

After fishing over 50 years and guiding for 11, I felt confident that I could catch some fish. Wow, was I wrong! I had a lot to learn. You have to watch the tides and the weather carefully. The baits and presentations are totally different. 

I couldn't catch any bluefish or Spanish mackerel until a gentleman handed me a "gotcha lure" and told me to reel in as fast as I could. He told me that these species of fish are used to chasing their prey at high speeds. 

The weather limits the amount of fishing you can do, and the grandkids wear you out after a couple of hours; so we spend quite a bit of time at the campground and on the beach. 

After hearing a sermon about "finishing the race," I was convicted by the Lord. He has given us a lot of free time. What are we doing to serve Him and win souls for Christ? We decided to use our gift of hospitality and invite some campers over for a meal. I also purchased some vinyl signs to put on my truck and camper displaying the Sportmen's Devotional logo. The Lord blessed us with many opportunities to witness to others. 

(Tom L)

Action Point

Continue to run the race, let your light shine before men; and use your gifts from God to seize the opportunities that He gives you.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

The pay piers are a good place to learn about ocean fishing. Most of the resident people are very helpful.  

May 22, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Black Bear Track (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ephesians 5:25  

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (NIV)

Thoughts 

When visiting a friend at his home, I noticed a sign hanging next to his game trophies which read:

WE INTERRUPT THIS MARRIAGE FOR THE HUNTING SEASON.

Is this a rut into which sportsmen tend to fall? 

I've found that I must maintain a balance. Our scripture verse tells us to have a sacrificial love for our wives. Philippians 2:44 instructs, "Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others," (NIV). 

Do we consider the needs and interests of our wives and children who don't hunt? As the spiritual head of the family, it is important to set an example and have our priorities in order. 

(Tom L) 

Action Point 

Instead of scheduling back-to-back hunting weekends from September through December, meet with your family and plan some activities together.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When you are hunting on the Lord's Day, take time before you leave to read a devotional and have prayer time. 

May 21, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Taste and See (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 42:1

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. (NIV) 

Thoughts

I was in trouble. It was hot and I was so thirsty. My water jug had been empty for several hours. I had taken the opportunity that August afternoon to scout some public land near my home in hopes of finding a good October bow hunting location. I figured that I could find my way around easily enough so I didn't bother to dig out my compass or my GPS. 

As the storm clouds began to gather, I didn't feel that I could take another step. I knew that I was getting close to heat stroke and would have given everything I had for a cool drink of water. When the storm finally brought rain, the refreshing coolness left me speechless. I can't tell you how happy I was when I found the trail that led back to my truck.

(Brian H)

Action Point

That's how God wants us to want Him!!! He wants us to be so thirsty for Him that nothing short of a refreshing encounter will suffice. He wants us to remember the truth: that without Him, we will perish both physically and spiritually.

Do you know Him? If you do, then do you desire Him above all other things? Do you feel that pang of thirst in your soul? Only God can fill that. Run to Him like a deer to a stream or a lost hunter to a water source. Taste and see that He is wholly good and perfect. Then submerge yourself in His waters and be refreshed

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Summertime rain may stop you from doing a lot of things outside, but it's a great time to take inventory of your hunting gear. Mend holes in your pants, replace buttons on shirts, throw out gear that is no good, and make a list of things that you will need before opening day. Use rainy days to your advantage!

May 20, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Fishing For The Day (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 19:21-22

"If you want to give it all you've got," Jesus replied, "go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me." That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crest-fallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn't bear to let go. (MSG)

Thoughts
It was a good kind of tired. The cooler was so full of big crappie and bluegill bream that water squished out when we closed the lid. 

My thumb was sore from taking fish off of the hook. We refer to that as "crappie finger." 

We had been drifting a small 1/32 ounce blue and sparkle jig around the Cyprus knees in the oxbow waters of the lower White River with the fish cooperating! There's nothing quite like enticing a nice keeper to bite a little rubber jig! 

(Brian H)

Action Point
When we stop to think about it, our entire outdoor lifestyle is built around fooling game. We use calls and scents for hunting and we use realistic looking plastic bait for fishing. It works!

   

Our world is full of fakes. These are the pretenders that have their own agenda and really don't care about God's work. You know the type. They look very spiritual on the outside, but on the inside they are full of corruption, sin, and destruction. Cross one of these deceivers and it's war!!!

In our passage, the young ruler was asking the questions that made him look spiritual. But when Jesus asked him to act on it, he walked away. 

Friends, keep a sharp eye out for imitations. God is the real deal and so are His people. Don't fall for any substitute when it comes to a relationship with God. 

Put a careful distance between yourself and a pretender. Pray for them and try to lead them to a right relationship with God, but keep your distance lest you be snared.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Summer tasks:  Keep your game calls in a temperature controlled environment. Make sure your decoys are touched up to look as realistic as possible. Put a drop of baby oil and a dusting of salt on rubber jigs to help prevent melting. Make sure you're ready to imitate when it's time to hit the woods or the water.   

  

May 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Antler Shed (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Romans 6:3-5 

Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection. (NKJV)

Thoughts 

For the life of me I could not get a single turkey to respond to my crow call. At 9 pm, I was traveling along the edge of a rim attempting to elicit a shock gobble from a roosting tom in the ponderosa pines below me. Nothing. 

The next morning before sunrise, I tried again. Nothing. I hunted until the afternoon and then decided to take a break. It was early May in the high country so I decided to go to a different area and look for shed antlers. 

Every year in the late spring antlered animals drop them. It is legal to collect these "sheds" as long as they have cleanly dropped from the animal and are not the result of some type of kill, whether it be human or animal. 

In the summer the animals begin to grow new, often larger antlers, which come to their full realization in the fall, just in time for hunting season. The shed antlers remain on the forest floor waiting to adorn someone's fireplace mantel or to be eaten by the abundance of rodents for the high calcium content. 

(Brett M) 

Action Point 

Some of the sheds I found had broken tines. some were small, and one was fairly disfigured. These were nothing that any self-respecting elk would want adorning his majestic body. Fortunately, every one of the elk is able to shed those old antlers and start anew each year.

Baptism symbolizes our bodies being buried under the water only to be resurrected in a new life with Christ Jesus. Our old sinful, selfish life is dead and we are given new life. 

Paul taught the Galatians that baptism was a spiritual growing up. No longer were you an immature believer, but on the path to true spiritual maturity. In Galatians 3:25-27 Paul writes, "But now you have arrived at your destination: By faith in Christ you are in direct relationship with God. Your baptism in Christ was not just washing you up for a fresh start. It also involved dressing you in an adult faith wardrobe-Christ's life, the fulfillment of God's original promise," (The Message).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Antler sheds can be found in many different locations. A few common ones are near fence lines, in draws, or in thick cover. They can be found wherever elk are found. The key is this, you need to look for them where the elk were when they dropped. In many areas that means searching in their winter range, not in their summer range.

May 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . They Adapt and Change (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Ephesians 5:28-29

So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. (NKJV)

Thoughts 

Drought has been hitting Arizona for the last ten years now. Water tanks are dried up, reservoirs are low, and trees and wildlife are showing the effects.

Recently a wild fire moved through an area called Mingus Mountain in northern AZ. A friend of mine was the base camp manager for the forest service firefighters' camp. Near the camp on the main highway, which had been closed, was a large, portable water trough that the helicopters used to retrieve water in order to drop on the fire. 

As he approached the trough in the dimly lit morning he saw something unusual, a black mass near the trough. Blurry eyed and still a little sleepy he approached the trough and the black mass came into focus. It was actually two large bears standing on their rear feet with their front paws on the edge of the trough getting a much needed drink. 

(Brett M) 

Action Point 

Wildlife is resourceful. When they are unable to meet their needs in the traditional ways, they adapt and change. We as humans are, also, very resourceful and adaptable. We have certain needs and we will typically make adaptations to meet those needs, often times in self-destructive ways.

Many of us are married and have made a vow to seek certain needs only from our spouses. Most commonly it is sex that we seek from our spouse. But, what about the other needs that should only be found in our spouse. Men are you meeting all of the needs of your wives? Do you love her "as your own body?" Neither spouse should have to go to a wayward trough to seek what they need.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Old burned areas of the forest are great places to hunt. Increased sunlight and fresh vegetation are keys. Pay attention to your hunting area during wildfire season, note if and where an area may have burned and then scout that in future hunting trips. 

May 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Sick At Heat (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

II Chronicles 15:7

"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded." (NIV)

Thoughts

Sick at heart describes my emotion. Ready to quit hunting with a bow was my attitude. He was almost under the stand when I released the arrow from my compound bow. I had stopped him with a bleat, and apparently he had stopped and looked up at me. 

The arrow took a path down his neck toward the vitals, but did not get deep enough to finish the job immediately. He ran away from me with the arrow prominently visible. 

Later I called for friends to come and help me trail him. There was good sign for a long way, but then it just stopped. The field was freshly harvested, so it had been easy to track him to a point where the trail seemed to disappear. Many have shared this frustration while hunting. 

I could not let it go. I went back and spoke with the land owners two days later. They gave some suggestions, so I widened my search. With God's help, I found him, a really nice nine-pointer. Though the meat had begun to spoil, and could not be utilized, I tagged the deer and was happy to have him. I was thankful that he had not suffered as I had imagined. My first archery trophy was my reward for not quitting. 

(Jack M)

Action Point

Maybe you are ready to quit. Don't quit, unless you are quitting a sinful pursuit!!! Especially don't stop doing what the Lord has given you to do!!! Persevere in life. Be faithful. 

Discouragement will come. Our ancient enemy, Satan, will make sure that happens. The urge or the temptation to give in or give up will present itself to all of us at times. Life is a journey, not a destination!!! 

Eternal life in Heaven with God--knowing Him--is the goal and destination for all who believe (John 17:3). God promises a reward for all who will keep going and not give up. The scriptures remind us:  "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived"- the things God has prepared for those who love Him," I Corinthians 2:9b (NIV). The reward will be worth it!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Wait for a sufficient time period before tracking a wounded big game animal. Develop your tracking and trailing skills. Trail with persistence. There are lights available to use at night which reveal blood. Some new tools detect body heat of a wounded animal. It is ethical hunting to do all you can reasonably do to recover wounded game.

May 15, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . And Sprinted Away . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses
Judges 13:25

And the Spirit of the Lord began to move upon him at Mahaneh Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol. 

Judges 14:19

Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon him mightily, and he went down to Ashkelon and killed thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave the changes of clothing to those who had explained the riddle. So his anger was aroused, and he went back up to his father's house. 

Judges 16:20

And she said, "The Philistines are upon you, Samson!" So he awoke from his sleep, and said, "I will go out as before, at other times, and shake myself free!" But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him. (NKJV)

Thoughts
What went wrong? This magnificent buck was coming in like he was on a string. But suddenly, he looked directly in my direction, spun like a top and sprinted away! 

I was hugely disappointed. Everything seemed to be just right, but the outcome was deeply disappointing. 

It was the wind that carried my scent and alerted the deer. I did not realize it until too late. 

(Jack M)

Action Point
Samson was the world's strongest man! The scriptures confirm it. His feats are listed all through Judges 14-16. The speed at which he moved and the raw power of his body were amazing and supernatural. 

But, Samson thought too highly of himself. Pride got in the way. He let his physical appetites control his life. He forgot that his strength came from God. His failure reminded him of his true source of strength.

Our failures and our struggles should remind us that we are dependent upon God. It is the Holy Spirit of God who gives us the desire and the dynamic power to do the will of God (Philippians 2:13).  

If you sense something is wrong in life, remember that you were created for a special love relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. If you have not received Him as Lord, do so. If you have gotten away from that relationship, repent and return to Him. Accept the forgiveness He offers, and enjoy again the presence and the power of the Almighty.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Human odor can reveal your presence to many wild animals. Their sense of smell is vastly superior to ours. Explore and learn to use appropriate odor and scent control for better success afield.

M ay 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Temple B'Nai Israel in Olean, NY Listed On The National Register Of Historical Places (NPS)

Happy   Birthday   Israel !!! 64th   Anniversary   of   Israel's   Rebirth

  

Bible Study Verse

Genesis 12:3

I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." (NKJV)

Thoughts

At the end of World War II the new United Nations on November 29, 1947 proposed to segregate Palestine into two states, Arab and Jewish. The Jews accepted while the Arabs rejected.

On May 14, 1948 surviving against all odds with God's help  David Ben Gurion, spokesman for the Jewish People's Council  publicly established the State of Israel. Israel officially became a country when the mandatory British reign ended at midnight on May 15, 1948. The United States and the USSR both recognized the new State of Israel and Israel was admitted into the United Nations as a full member.

The next day the Arabs from Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Transjordan, and Lebanon equipped with the latest British and French fighters, bombers, tanks, heavy artillery, bombs and ammunition attacked.   Israel had no tanks, no military planes, no artillery, and only 10,000 rifles.

Israel obtained military equipment leftover from World War II at extremely high prices  and secretly shipped them in. Pilots and crew members died while moving the desperately needed defense weapons into the tiny country. Approximately 3600 Jewish and non-Jewish volunteers from 29 countries entered secretly and were immediately added to the new IDF, Israel Defense Force, army. They were known as the Machal.

January 7, 1949 the Arabs called for a cease fire and finally withdrew in defeat to God's chosen people. 

(JQ)

 

Action Point

As heirs to eternal life through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we all need to pray for God's chosen race the Jews and Israel. Psalms 122:6 tells us, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you," (NKJV). 

  

As Americans we need to stand for Israel and vote for and support those politicians who will also stand for America supporting Israel. Why? They are God's chosen that need Jesus their Messiah and Savior.

God promises blessings to those who bless His chosen. Great!!! Awesome!!! Anything from our loving Heavenly Father I welcome, especially His blessings.

Purpose to pray and to seek God's guidance for Israel and America daily. 

  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Anti-Semitism runs rampant throughout the world.  In the February 2012 Levitt Letter published by Zoa Levitt Ministries, states an  interesting, but puzzling fact: World Vision has been active in the Holy land since 1975 sponsoring children in the West Bank, Garza Strip, and East Jerusalem, but does not sponsor children in Israel. 

Educate yourself on Israel. The Levitt Letter can be read on line as well as the Jerusalem Post newspaper. Our freedom here grants us choices we take for granted. After reading both, you will have a long list of subjects to pray on Israel's behalf besides becoming more knowledgeable on just the medical breakthroughs Israel is responsible for. Their research on heart disease and Diabetes is amazing. They are working on a cure for Type I, juvenile diabetes, and are so close.

May 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . A Good Place To Start With Blessing Your Wife and Your Mother (MQ)

Happy   Mother's   Day

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 10:37-38

Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me. (ESV)

  

Deuteronomy 5:16

" 'Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.' " (ESV)

 Mark 9:35

And He sat down and called the twelve. And He said to them, "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all." (ESV)  

Thoughts

Julia Ward Howe, the author of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, also planted the seed of Mother's Day in 1870 by her Mother's Day proclamation. 

Anna M Jarvis caught Howe's seed through her mother and May 10, 1908 became the first official Mother's day celebrated in the Andrew's Methodist Church in Grafton, WV and also in another church in Philadelphia, PA. The day drew 407 participants. Anne's mother had taught Sunday School within that church for over 20 years which was the determining factor in location.  Anna began the honored tradition of  two white carnations, her mother's favorite flower, given to each Mother. Customary practice is white flowers to a Mother if her mother is deceased or red flowers to be given if her mother is still alive.

Inspired by  the YMCA (Young Men's Christian Association) request, US Senator Elmer Burkett proposed Mother's Day as a national holiday.  In spite of defeat by 1909, forty-six states were holding Mother's Day services including parts of Canada and Mexico. In 1914 President Woodrow Wilson followed declaring the 2nd Sunday of May into the nationally observed Mother's Day.

Despite her continued objections on the holiday's exploitation by the floral industry. Anna Jarvis died in 1948, blind, poor and childless. She never knew that The Florist's Exchange  had anonymously paid for her care till death.  Today more than 70 countries honor their Mothers on their appointed  Mother's Days.

(JQ)

Action Point

Balance is everything in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. God first before family. Only those Mothers not sold out to Christ would want to be before Christ or a child's spouse in the life of her child. 

Then we must honor our Mothers. Not because they deserve it, as most do, but because God  tells us to in His Word to honor our parents. 

Our actions should always speak louder than our words!!! What do your actions shout in the treatment of your wife, the Mother of your children, and your Mother? 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Take this day to bless Mothers in your life. Make this day a beautiful memory. Remember a servant's attitude is our altitude within our obedience to Jesus Christ. God bless each of you!!!

 

May 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Chases Us, Trees Us, And Backs Us Into A Corner (MT GOV)

Bible Study Verse

Psalm 68:20

Our God is a God Who sets us free. The way out of death belongs to God the Lord. (NLV) 

Thoughts

Beautiful Fall nights filled with the music of hounds on the chase is an attractive part of hunting the raccoon. It is a popular sport in many places.

My father was an avid coon hunter. His age now prevents his participation in the hunt, but his heart is still there. He had many different hounds over the years, often several at the same time.

The dogs would pick up the scent of the raccoons and trail them till they were pushed up a tree from which they could not escape. There, the dogs would "tree bark" until the hunters had time to come to that location and harvest the raccoon for its fur. Many years, my dad made substantial income from his hobby.

I often tagged along and learned to enjoy and appreciate the bawling of the hounds and the excitement of the chase. I am sure it was not so exciting to the raccoon. Unfortunately, the hunt was successful when the raccoon was killed and his fur preserved for the market.

(Jack M)

Action Point

Sin is like the hounds that hunt the raccoon. It chases us, trees us, and backs us into a corner that leads to our death, often physically as well as spiritually (Proverbs 14:12). Perhaps worse is the ripple effect of sin upon the lives of those around us. Sin is no discriminator. Jesus died and rose again, conquering sin, death and hell (Romans 4:25).

Accepting Him by faith as Savior and Lord will deliver us from spiritual death and give us the gift of eternal life. Following His ways will keep us from physical death, help us avoid danger so that we can enjoy abundant life with Him.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you hunt with animals, especially with dogs, be regular in caring for them. Make sure they are tested first, then administer approved heart worm medication to prevent the loss of these prized partners in the hunt. Regular veterinary care is a must to be a responsible dog owner.

May 11, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Angel Of The Lord Encamps . . . (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 34:4-7

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.  (NIV)

Thoughts

There's an old Indian story about a boy who must complete an ordeal in order to be considered a man. The boy's father takes him deep into the forest and has him sit down in a clearing. The father then places a blindfold on the boy. The boy must sit in the clearing, alone and blindfolded, until sunup in order to prove that he can conquer his fears and be considered a man. 

As night falls, the boy hears many sounds; most are familiar, but now alarming, because of being alone and blindfolded. As the night passes and he hears wild animals nearby and other frightening sounds, his fears mount; and he struggles not to tear the blindfold from his face.

Finally, the sun comes up and he can remove the blindfold; whereupon he sees his father who has been sitting nearby all night, silently protecting him from anything that might harm him.

(Cliff S)

Action Point

God is there for us, always. No matter how frightening our circumstances may be, He is watching over us. He has His angels ready to step in and deliver us from Satan and anything harmful that comes our way.

Trust God!!! Stand firm!!! Be brave!!! Be strong!!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Being alone in the forest after dark can be frightening. Plan your hunt so that you will be back at your vehicle or camp prior to dark. Better yet, rendezvous with your hunting partner and stay together as the sun goes down.

May 10, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Gray Wolf, Canis Lupus (FWS)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 14:12

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.  (NIV)

Thoughts

An Eskimo technique described for hunting wolves is to coat the blade of a knife with blood and let it freeze. This process is repeated several times until the blade of the knife is completely coated and appears harmless. The knife is then secured in the ground, ice, or some other stable place with the blade exposed. 

When the wolf finds the knife, he will begin licking the exposed blade with increasing passion as he tastes the thawing blood. However, as he gets more and more excited, the wolf doesn't realize that the blade of the knife is slicing his tongue and that it is his own blood that he now tastes. Eventually, the wolf will bleed to death by his own doing.

So it is with sin in our lives, particularly addictive sins-- alcohol, drugs, sex, pornographic materials, gambling, or any other enticement that captures us in its grip of slavery. It begins slowly, perhaps with an occasional drink or visit to an inappropriate website. 

At the time, it seems okay; and we don't believe that we could become a victim. But, Solomon warns us here that we must always be vigilant and not allow Satan to drag us into behaviors that will eventually lead to our destruction. 

(Cliff S)

Action Point

Protect yourself from addictive behaviors. Learn how to avoid those places and things where you know you have a weakness. Pray and admit your weakness to God. Ask for His strength and protection from whatever brings you down. 

If you're all ready involved with some of these sins, get help. Go to your pastor, another Christian friend you trust, or a qualified Christian counselor who can help you break Satan's hold on you. Don't wait; do it now!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Keep your knives sharp and the blade protected. My Dad always said, "You'll hurt yourself worse with a dull knife than a sharp one." He was right!