September 5, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . We Know Ahead Of Time That We Are Headed Into Dangerous Territory Before We Ever Arrive . . .  (Dave M)

Bible Study Verses

Genesis 18:16-17 

When the men got up to leave, they looked down toward Sodom, and Abraham walked along with them to see them on their way. Then the Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do? (NIV)

Thoughts

At the beginning of a hike, there is always a sense of anticipation and excitement for our family as we begin to pack up to head out. Usually, we'll have our water bottles all filled up, back packs filled with emergency medical supplies, snacks to keep everyone energized, and a map in hand to figure out where we're going. 

Oftentimes, there is a sign at the trailhead to give last minute details and warnings about the trail ahead. The most unique trailhead I've ever encountered was at Parker Ridge, up by the Athabasca Glacier near Jasper. As we headed up the trail, the trailhead sign showed an image of what looked to be bomb. 

As we approached the sign, sure enough, there was a detailed explanation given on this sign about how this area had been a practice range for the military to drop bombs back in the World War II era. Unfortunately, not all of the bombs exploded on contact, and there were some still left in the area. The sign instructed all hikers to report any sightings of bombs and not to go near them.

(Dave M)

Action Point

There are times in our lives where we know ahead of time that we are headed into dangerous territory before we ever arrive:  

•  A delicate family situation dealing with difficult personalities. 
• A serious illness that will require all your efforts to get through. 
• A troublesome parenting problems during the teen years.

  . . . whatever the situation, you know it's coming!!!  As a believer in Christ, the best thing we can do with these difficult situations is to take them to God in prayer. 

Why wait until something bad happens? Start praying ahead of time: 

• Ask God for wisdom and for Him to lead you through. These situations are difficult enough - don't face them alone. 
• Ask God to walk with you through every aspect of it and to daily meet your needs. 
• Ask for God to miraculously use you in the midst of turmoil. 

Often, this is where God does His greatest work - for you and others.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If the wind is too much while you are hiking, build a wind break by stacking stones on top of one another until it's high enough to break the wind for you.