October 31, 2012  

Today's Photograph . . . . Fall Colors (Janet B)

Please surround our brothers and sisters with prayer as they go through the tremendous flooding, weather, and loss of life. We are asking for God's mercy and protection for those walking through this storm. May God continue to bless America and God bless each of you as you rest under the shadow of His wings.

Bible Study Verses

Deuteronomy 18:10-14

There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the LORD, and because of these abominations the LORD your God drives them out from before you.  You shall be blameless before the LORD your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the LORD your God has not appointed such for you. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Years ago many a deer hunt was right before Halloween.  As a kid couldn't be at two places at one time, so I went hunting.

One Halloween we were butchering 3 deer in one evening. Unfortunately we ran out of butcher paper, so I ran to pick more up at the store.  The other two men couldn't keep butchering and answer the door to pass out candy so they ended visitation.  They place a deer head with its horns sawed off at the end of the driveway until I found it in my returning headlights.

As I removed the scary creature to oblivion I promised myself that we'd never butcher another deer on Halloween with the butcher boys again. It worked as a fright, not one child or teenager came up to the porch after that display. It's unsettling to think what the neighbors might have thought or the nightmares created.
(Jo Q)

Action Point

Just as the butcher boys made a poor choice on deflecting visitation, it brings to mind the verse that says, "Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea," Matthew 18:6 (NKJV).  Hopefully they didn't cause a frightened little one to sin.  But how many of our poor choices caused another to stumble?   

  

The above scripture is pretty clear on what any of us should not be doing within the spiritual realm. Notice "one who practices witchcraft" has no exceptions for white, black, or Wicca. We're to walk in HIS light and with our faith in JESUS CHRIST not by what today's horoscope reflects.

The final tests are to take every thought captive to Christ and line up every question to GOD's Living Holy WORD. We become free in CHRIST when we bow at HIS throne and humbly ask for HIS forgiveness no matter what has been in the past!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
By cutting up our own deer, we diligently removed all fat before packaging. The strong gamey taste was removed with the fat. Many a chuckle was created when friends enjoyed the steak that couldn't have been wild game meat.

October 30, 2012  

Today's Photograph . . . . Take His Way Of Escape and Allow God To Help You Overcome These Funnels  (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

I Corinthians 10:12-14

Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. 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. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Terrain Strategies, Funnels - imagine two crop fields that sit back to back with a strip of woods between them.  If I were a big buck trying to stay in hiding, how would I travel between the two patches of woods without walking out in the open of these two fields?  Right.  I would walk that little strip of woods that sits between the two crop fields.  It's a natural pinch-point. 

If I were hunting this setup, I would place a stand somewhere in that funnel.  Does that mean that every deer in the region would travel through that funnel?  Of course not.  But that funnel is a good jumping off point in placing your stand to position yourself to see more deer.

I used to hunt a little patch of woods between two big clear cuts (areas that had been strip-logged).  For the three or so years that the clear cut was still pretty much open and just beginning to grow back with brush, briers, and small pine saplings, that was the place to be.  Several deer met their end as they funneled through that little patch of trees to avoid the wide open spaces.

(Brian H)

Action Point

Do you have a pinch-point in your life?  Is there a pet-sin that you just can't seem to get away from?  If we're not careful, we rationalize our little personal pet sins and they become spiritual strongholds in our lives.  We run to these little secret areas only to find that the enemy is there and ready to strike. 

The only true freedom from these pinch-points in our lives is forgiveness.  Jesus has made a way of escape for us so that we don't have to die in the funnel!!! 

The temptations that lead to these pinch-points are "common to man." But, our Lord says that He will give us a way of escape.  We don't have to keep these funnels in our lives.

Take the way of escape and allow God to help you overcome these funnels lest you be caught off guard.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

When scouting, you will obviously be looking for deer sign.  But hanging your stand right on the deer sign may not be the right place.  Look to find where deer bed, eat, drink, and then find their travel corridors.  See more deer by finding the paths they walk regularly.

October 29, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Changing The MESSAGE. That Never Changes   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Hebrews 13:8 

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (NKJV)

Thoughts

Last Saturday morning was the opening of muzzleloader season in Arkansas. As daylight oozed in through the pines, my phone vibrated and I quietly read the two text messages. They were from my two best hunting buddies; my dad and my brother. They had opted to open the black powder season in South Arkansas while I opted to stay close to home in the North. They were wishing me a good hunt.

Throughout the morning, we would quietly text from time to time.

"I just saw a good buck!"

"I had three cross the logging road about five minutes ago."

"I can't hear anything for the noisy squirrels!"

I don't usually get into bringing technology with me on a hunting trip, but it was nice to "virtually" hunt with my buddies even though we were a few hundred miles apart.
(Brian H)

Action Point
Things change. No doubt. But show me a church, or a group of believers that refuse to change methodology as they proclaim Christ and I'll show you a group that have ceased to be effective - at least with younger generations.

I'm not talking about changing the MESSAGE. That never changes and can NEVER be compromised. But, let your mind drift to the reformation era. People of that era had different life examples than today. Suppose that a preacher was speaking to a group of teenagers and kept using the analogy of churning butter or hitching up the mule to the plow. That's not going to hit home with those kids because they can't identify with those actions. But, what if he presented his message and used the analogy of texting on a cell phone. Ah! They get it!

In my story above, we had changed our communication method, but were still communicating the same message as we always had. When I was a child, we hunted until noon, came out and talked about our morning hunt face-to-face. Then we started using radios,walkie talkies, to communicate. Nowadays, we use text messaging because it's quieter. My point? The message stays the same, but the method has to change to remain effective.

As the writer of Hebrews states, Jesus never changes. Never compromise the message. It's still the same as it has always been. But look at your methods for reaching a lost world and don't be afraid to innovate. Innovate, but NEVER compromise.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If you do choose to carry technology out with you, for goodness sake, put it on silent mode and don't over-do it. You could miss a chance for a shot, but also, you're out there to relax and too much texting overshadows why you're out there in  

October 28, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Through These Situations We Learn Something About Ourselves or More Importantly About  our God   (Michael T)

Bible Study Verses  

Psalm 37:3-7 

Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! (ESV)

Thoughts

The sound of hooves crunching through the woods was music to my ears. I slowly began to scoot forward carefully and quietly grabbed my bow. The tree stand creaked. I held my breath and stopped. I clipped my trigger release onto its normal spot, took a deep breath and waited.

It was a cold and frosty morning, not more than sixty yards away a small puff of fog emerged from behind a tree. The puff of smoke billowed again, and this time a whitetail buck walked through it. 

Immediately, I knew it was a shooter. The buck came towards me. He was looking well beyond me obviously searching for a doe and a potential date. Forty, thirty, twenty-five and then at twenty, the deer gave me a soft quartering shot. I unleashed death.

I watched the buck hunch and then bolt out of sight. Now, all that was left to do was to wait patiently and give the large buck some time to go to sleep. In the meantime, I called my father and a friend over to help me track this deer. 

The blood trail was a good one and we found the arrow the way we would like to see it after coming out of a deer. We followed the trail through the woods, through some thickets, and with every step we got a little more excited. The trail led us from the woods to an open field and that is where the story turns. 

At this point the deer could have gone a thousand different directions, but which way? Unfortunately, there was no more blood. We searched all morning and afternoon and even the next day for any sign of blood, or a limp less body, but to no avail. I spent the next few days in mourning over the disappointment of losing out on that trophy buck. 

(Mike T)

Action Point

Life brings about many disappointments and heartache. It is often through these situations that we learn something about ourselves or more importantly about God, or both. 

In my case, I realized that I was beginning to worship that trophy buck far beyond the normal fascination of what was acceptable. In fact, I was tying my worth as a person to that monster deer. I thank God for showing me otherwise.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If you ever lose a blood trail and this is allowed by law, contact a local K-9 retrieval unit in your area within twenty-four hours of shooting your animal. Put their phone number in your cell phone. I wish I had. 

October 27, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . We Also Need To Be Prepared For Opposition In Our Faith Walk   (Yvonne M)

Bible Study Verses 

Genesis 1:27-30 

So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth." And God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food." And it was so. (ESV)

Thoughts

I recently searched the internet for quotes from people who are against hunting and the eating of animals. I was amazed at the amount of quotes that were available from some famous and not so famous people. On the surface many of these quotes seemed compassionate and filled with mercy, while others were sprinkled with arrogance and hatred for those who differed with their beliefs to varying degrees.

Most of us have read articles, or witnessed the media depicting hunters as buffoons and the sport in which we participate in as barbaric. Some of us have even had equipment damaged or stolen by anti-hunting activists. Everyone is also aware of the ground swell of individuals and organizations who want to take away our rights to bear arms. Opposition is all around us and unfortunately it is nothing new to the hunting and fishing communities. 

(Mike T)

Action Point

God says that the Bible is His Word and the Scriptures say that God has given us permission to subdue and have dominion over all of the earth. He also asks us to be good stewards and to be responsible with what He has given us. 

Remember that God is our standard; we use His words to guide our lives, so that we can know more about Him and live in a way that brings honor and glory to Him. It is not uncommon for outdoorsmen to face opposition. But, we, also, need to be prepared for opposition in our faith walk. 

Can you defend the Bible and the doctrines of God with the same fervor and manner in which you defend the right to hunt or fish?

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

If you encounter anti-hunting activists do not engage them, but be very observant, take notes and contact your local game warden or police officer and report any harassment. It's against the law in most states. So be informed, but be safe and stay alert and let law enforcement deal with these

 

October 26, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . When You Are Fearful What Is Your Response   (Michael T)

Bible Study Verses

II Chronicles 20:2-4  

Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, "A great multitude is coming against you from Edom, from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar"  Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. 

(ESV)

Thoughts

Often, as a young boy, I would find myself sitting in the middle of a pitch black night, waiting for my father to return after a late afternoon hunt. 

The silence of the woods after dark was quite frightening for this young hunter and minutes seemed like hours. The noise of an owl or the distant cry of a coyote would cause the hair on my arms to stand on end and would send a chill rippling through my body. To say that I was afraid was an understatement!!! 

(Mike T)

Action Point

My first response was always to go to the Lord in prayer. In fact, I was accustomed to praying out loud to help drown out the silence of the night. 

Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, was under siege and the men of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites had gathered to take him and his army out. He was afraid and he had every reason to feel this way, but his response is worth talking about . . .   

He began to fast and sought out the Lord for help. Not only did the king do this, but all of the cities of Judah got on their knees and prayed for God's deliverance.

When you are fearful what is your response? When your church is faced with a daunting obstacle what is the congregations response? Do you take matters into your own hands or do you get on your knees and pray. Have you or your church ever considered a fast?

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Hiking or walking out of the woods at dark can be dangerous. Always carry a flashlight or a headlamp and it never hurts to have a spare set of batteries. You never know what circumstances may call for you to spend a longer time in the woods than you prefer.  

October 25, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Hunting Is One Of Those Few Activities Which Allows Multiple Generations To Participate Together (Michael T)

Bible Study Verses

Psalm 94:14-15  

For the Lord will not forsake His people; He will not abandon His heritage; for justice will return to the righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it. (ESV)

Thoughts

The six point buck walked into my shooting lane, offering himself up to me. But, this day, I would pass on the opportunity and allow my son to reap the harvest of his first deer. 

His gun pivoted on cue and pointed in the direction of this young whitetail. The deer came closer and I whispered loudly, "Shoot!" The blast from the twenty gauge shotgun echoed through the woods. Startled by the miss and the loud noise, the buck jumped, and then ran twenty yards closer to the rookie hunter.

It appeared he had a wide open shot and instead of whispering this time, I yelled, "Shoot him!" Zach didn't shoot, but left his gun trained on the buck. The deer took two steps at the sound of my voice. My twelve year old son with the patience of a veteran hunter waited for the deer to move out from behind two trees before he squeezed off the trigger and hit his target.

The injured deer took flight and my son's gun barrel followed him and then recoiled, as the blast of his third shot hobbled the deer even further. While waiting for the proper amount of time to transpire before tracking the deer, we left the woods and waited for grandpa to arrive. An hour later three generations took off in pursuit of the harvest. 

(Mike T)

Action Point

Most sports only allow for one generation playing at a time, but hunting is one of those few activities which allows multiple generations to participate together. I guess that is why I like hunting so much. My grandfather passed hunting down to his son and my father passed hunting down to my brother and I, and now it is our turn to hand it down to our sons. In my family, we have a long hunting heritage, but most importantly we have a strong Christian heritage.

What are you doing to pass on the precepts of God to your family? It's never too late to be open, honest, and real with the younger generations and model for them what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Don't let the selfishness of the hunt get in the way of spending time with your family. Hunt together, fish together, shoot sporting clay's together, or just sit around a campfire and tell the same hunting stories over and over again. In the off season plan a day to shop at the local outdoor store together, then go out to eat, and share your life with your family. Be open, honest, and real.

October 24, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . This Is What I Think About All Year, Being Out Hunting. Thank you!  (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verses

Luke 15:28-32

"The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'  

"'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.  But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'" (NIV)

 

Thoughts

Gratitude. I've had to think long and hard about that lately. Been on a couple of pretty good hunts this winter, but I never harvested a single animal.

My last evening of a recent elk hunt, I sat on an old juniper log and looked across a beautiful meadow. I was mulling over a blown shot, and at least one blown stalk, and I was feeling pretty sorry for myself. 

Then I shook it off, looked around, took a deep breath and started praying; "God, what am I thinking? I've been in the woods for week. No work, no commitments, this is what I think about all year; being out hunting! Thank you!"

(Ruben C)

Action Point

Sometimes we can forget how well we have it. I am disappointed in my performance this season. One friend said, "I thought you were dead-eye Ruben?" Yeah, whatever! I'll clean up my marksmanship for next season. Anyway, it's about being out there, right? I mean, I'm not in competition with anyone, and God help me if I ever take my passion of hunting and turn it in to that.

The same applies with our spiritual life; don't forget to be grateful for what you have in Jesus! He doesn't forget you or put you on the back burner. He knows you're there, and your reward won't diminish with time. By the same token, remember what that reward is (eternity with Christ) and don't take it for granted. Read  Philippians 2:12.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Most of us already know when "still hunting" to move slow and stop often. What I constantly need to remind myself though is; before you take that first step after you've stopped for several minutes, look around 360 degrees to make sure nothing has snuck up on you, or that you're not about to step into an opening that you haven't totally scanned for game. More than once I stepped out, only to spook an animal that moved in on me while I was looking straight ahead.

October 23, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . I Wouldn't Put My Faith In God Clearing Out Yours or My Hunting Area Of Other Hunters   (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

II Chronicles 20:1-4  

After this, the Moabites and Ammonites with some of the Meunites came to wage war against Jehoshaphat. Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, "A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Dead Sea. It is already in Hazezon Tamar" (that is, En Gedi). Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah.  The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek Him. (NIV)

Thoughts

Hunting Pressure. Oh My Gosh - to coin a phrase. It can be stressful when you plan a hunt and find your favorite hunting grounds are covered with other hunters. They come from towns and cities from all four points of the compass, from this State and others. Although they are like minded in the pursuit of game, they seem like the enemy to you; over running your area and competing with you for your trophy. 

(Ruben C)

Action Point

Your fellow hunters are not the enemy. But yes, I'd bet many of you have felt this way too. 

On a more serious note, King Jehoshaphat had three countries coming against him at once to make war. But you know what? That's just the way life is sometimes. The whole world is under the control of the evil one, I John 5:19, and bad stuff's going to come our way. It's not so important what it is, but how we handle it. 

King Jehoshaphat said, "Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you," II Chronicles 20:12 (NIV). Maybe God really wants us at the point we really need Him? The Lord told King Jehoshaphat through Jahaziel, "He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's," II Chronicles 20:12 (NIV). 

Although I wouldn't put my faith in God clearing out yours or my hunting area of other hunters, God will fight our battles against the evils of this world when we fix our eyes on Jesus and walk as He did in full submission of the Father. I cannot promise you won't have to face anymore battles, but our God is faithful in protecting his children!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

The obvious solution to avoiding the masses when hunting public lands in the West is head deeper into the wilderness, literally. I've discovered over the years that doesn't always have to be the case. Sometimes you simply need to look for the overlooked places. I've killed a couple of nice bulls for example on the same mountain with two main forest roads on either side that never gets hunted because it seems too small of an area to hunt, I guess. I've found a few more places like it using that little mountain as a guide . 

October 22, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Won't Be Very Beneficial If We're Only Partially Devoted To Him  (Ruben C)

Bible Study Verses

I Kings 15:1-6 

In the eighteenth year of the reign of Jeroboam son of Nebat, Abijahbecame king of Judah,  and he reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother's name was Maakah daughter of Abishalom. He

committed all the sins his father had done before him; his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his forefather had been. Nevertheless, for David's sake the Lord his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by making Jerusalem strong. For David had done what was right in the eyes of the Lord and had not failed to keep any of the Lord's commands all the days of his life-except in the case of Uriah the Hittite. (NIV)

Thoughts
As mentioned in other devotionals I've written, I love to hunt. Thing is, I don't get to hunt as much as I'd like. 

Every year when the hunts are over I'm left feeling like I could have or wished I could have gotten out a few more days. I could always have scouted several more days and taken a few more leave days to hunt. 

There's no substitute for preparation. As it is I feel fortunate to get out as much as I do. 

(Ruben C)

  

Action Point 

If I were more devoted to hunting I would be out in the field more, but I'm not. There are other priorities in my life that take precedence. Being married with kids can do that. It does not mean however that I do not love to hunt and have lots of fun while doing it. Hunting is just that kind of sport. As long as you're satisfied being in the field and have no high expectations, you're good-to-go, so to speak. 

A relationship with God like King Abijah had will not be very beneficial if we're only partially devoted to Him. 

God wants our whole heart and not just on Sunday. We have be living for Him every day "in season and out of season," II Timothy 4:2. Maybe that is a reminder for us hunters? 

God tells us we cannot serve two masters. Let God be your true anchor point and trust in Him. He will not disappoint.  

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Preplanning . . . I like to plan my hunts a year in advance. Nowadays its even easier to save ground-truthing time using satellite or aerial mapping programs like Google Earth. Try it sometime and see if you don't discover some new big buck hide outs where you like to hunt.  

 

October 21, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . There . . . .  Is . . . .  Something . . . . Wrong . . . . When We Proclaim Jesus As Lord and We Pursue Everything or Anything Else Above Him   (Ruben C)

Bible Study Verse

Luke 9:23 - 26

Then He said to them all: "Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?  Whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when He comes in His glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. (NIV)

Thoughts

I have a weakness; a desire to hunt. Okay, so it's not so uncommon given the audience. 

But, I desire to hunt all the time. I think about it constantly. I want to hunt caribou in Alaska and I want to hunt elk in New Mexico (and Arizona where I live of course), and desert muleys close to home. 

I, also, want a new stock for my rifle. A collapsible Blackhawk Axiom in desert shadow camouflage. I want a new bow too . . . I want it all!!! These thoughts have a tendency to consume me.

(Ruben C)

Action Point

We live in a society that says it's okay to get everything I want. Most of us will say it's okay to get some of the things I want. 

Jesus says, "Deny yourself" to a radical point. Don't get me wrong, there is NOTHING wrong with the pursuit of game. There is something wrong though when we proclaim Jesus as Lord and we pursue everything or anything else above Him. 

If we have the mindset that we must have something because "we deserve it" or because "so-in-so has one, so I want one" etc, be careful.  "Jesus said to His followers, 'If anyone wants to be My follower, he must forget about himself. He must take up his cross and follow Me,' " Matthew 16:24 (NLV). If this is a challenge for you then have faith my friends, you are human for Jesus, also, promises us, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own," Matthew 6:31-33 (NIV). Nuff said. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Although I'd love to have the rifle stock mentioned above, mine is fine. It's also got a nifty camo job courtesy of yours truly. While perusing EBay the other day I found a whole slew of inexpensive fiberglass stocks for my rifle that with a good camo paint job would rival some $200+ ones out there. Check it out for yourself if you're shopping for a replacement stock. Be careful and check seller ratings though for reputable vendors.

October 20, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . God Will Never Let You Down   (Suzanne S)

Bible Study Verse

Joshua 1:1-3

After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide:  "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them-to the Israelites.  I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. (NIV)

Thoughts

Ok, the first thing I'm thinking if I am Joshua is what in the world am I going to do now? Imagine his stress level, his nervousness and his concern.  Even in the face of the Lord, Joshua had to be nervous!

(Jim C)

Action Point

As the scriptures go on to tell us: God tells Joshua to be "strong and courageous ....I will be with you."  

You can all be sure of this that if you ask God for the strength to get through any situation and put your faith in HIM, He will get you through.  When you come out of your valley of darkness, you will be a shining light.  God will never let you down!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Hosting and filming for an outdoor show I get to see some incredible scenes through the lens of a camera. Take a moment today, go outside and take a deep breath. Look toward the sky and know God sees you and loves you. This is not just a tip, it's a fact that will warm your heart.

October 19, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . He Never Tires Of Hearing From Me  (Suzanne S)

Bible Study Verse  

Jeremiah 31:35

This is what the Lord says, He who appoints the sun to shine by day, Who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, Who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar - the Lord Almighty is His name. (NIV)

Thoughts

Ok so you had a bad day, so you had a bad week and maybe even longer, have you asked God to intervene?  No, and why not?  God does not care how big your problems are, they are all small compared to HIM!  

I hear people say, I don't want to ask God that, or it's my problem.  How arrogant is that?   God appoints the sun to shine, the moon to light the night and you think He wouldn't help you?

ALL OF YOU are more important to GOD.  Ask the Lord to help you with your situation; He will NEVER let you down.

(Jim C)

Action Point

Many times in my life situations have arisen, that I have no control over. I would be lost without Jesus. "God, it's me Jim. Do you have a minute? HELP!!!" God is amazing and I know this because He never tires of hearing from me. He is that powerful hand that rests on my shoulder saying, "I'm here Jim, and I got this one!" Thank God for GOD!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Get over the "old wives tale" of summer dog days. Fish still have to eat and survive. The hot weather affects our mentality more than it does their instinct. Just go fishing . .

October 18, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . I Need To Look "Above" From Where I Was "Cut"   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Isaiah 51:1-2

"Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn; look to Abraham, your father, and to Sarah, who gave you birth. When I called him he was only one man, and I blessed him and made him many. (NIV)

Thoughts

This short verse, tells me to look inside at myself. It tells me to be accountable for whom I am. I want to seek the Lord because I know that with Him and through Him, I can be more like Him, which happens as we go through our trials in life. "The rock from which I was cut" I am a believer in the "most high" I am a cut above. Not that I should ever act that way but I should know I was made in God's image and because of that when life has its trials, I need to look up, I need to look "above" from where I was "cut".  We will get through and forge ahead!

(Jim C)

Action Point
On my internet show I strive to make sure the young viewers know about, honesty, integrity and accountability. I could tell them that, or I could show them that through my actions. I will never be perfect, but I know that God loves a cheerful giver and for my little part in this world I want young viewers to see the good in the outdoors. What it can give all of us. It's all of our responsibility to pass on what we know!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Fishing season is right around the corner. When fishing a body of water right after a cold winter, remember to look for the north of northwest area of the lake or pond you are fishing. That area will warm first and give you a better chance of catching some fish during this time of year.

 

October 17, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Make It a Point To Pass On A Tip Or A Word Of Encouragement  (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Proverbs 3:13

 Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding. (NIV)

Thoughts

Blessed is right. Anytime you can learn something new, it's a good day! I have said that a lot especially when I'm in the field. 

You are never too old to gain insight on anything. Anything you learn or come to have better understanding of can not only benefit you, but others as well.

Action Point

Especially when you are with a younger hunter or fisherman, make it a point to pass on a tip, a word of encouragement. Make the outing not only entertaining but informative as well. 

The young outdoorsman will take away more from that day than both of you may see at that time.

(Jim C)

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Fish will tell you how they want a certain lure. How you present the lure, including depth, retrieve speed and imparted action are all important when trying to get a bite. Remember it takes two things for a fish to strike, attraction and triggering. One cannot happen without the other and both have to occur for you to get a bite.

October 16, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . After Finding Your Way Back, Enjoy Being Home In The Warmth Of His Presence   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

Nehemiah 9:17

They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them. (NIV)

 

Thoughts
I was out tracking a buck after dark with my brother-in-law. The buck had been shot close to dark. When I got down out of my tree stand, I marked the beginning of the blood trail and had a general sense of where he took off to.

We had a flashlight and a propane lantern to light the way. As we found blood, we marked the spot with toilet paper. It would enable us to find our way out when we were done. After tracking this deer a hundred yards or so, I flashed my light up and around to see if I could see the animal. Sure enough, we found him laying 30 yards away from where we stood.

In our excitement, we rushed over to the buck and didn't mark the last little bit of the trail. As fate would have it, our lantern ran out of fuel while gutting the deer. We were down to only the flashlight.

As we went to head back out with the deer, we lost our bearings. Even though the trail was close, we just couldn't find the last piece of toilet paper to get us started back on the trail. We were lost. Fortunately, after a couple of hours of staggering around in the dark, we finally picked up the trail.
(Dave M)

Action Point
I don't know many people who wake up in the morning and say, "Today, I'm going to sin." 

 

Sin often occurs much more subtly than intentionally planning to participate in it. There is often a gradual path that leads to a life of sin, little decisions that we make thinking that our choices really don't matter that much. Soon though, those little decisions add up and they've taken us down a path that we never really intended on traveling. In the end, we end up spiritually lost - looking for the way back.

If you are a Christian and find yourself today in a place that you never intended on being in due to a sin issue, my suggestion is to go back to the last spiritual marker where you can remember things were good between God and you. You'll be able to quickly identify what took you down the "wrong path".

Ask God to forgive you for allowing sin(s) into your life. After finding your way back to Him, enjoy being home in the warmth of His presence.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Propane lanterns are great for tracking. The blood illuminates in the lantern light. Marking your way with toilet paper is also a great way to mark your trail. Just don't forget to mark it all the way to the animal.

October 15, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . The Ground Would Have Been Saturated With His Blood   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

John 19:34

Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. (NIV)

\

Thoughts

My son, Caleb, and I had just finished dropping the deer off at the processors. We had it strapped on to the roof of the Yukon, so the vehicle was a mess! We had mud splattered everywhere on the vehicle (love those dirt roads), and now we mixed blood into the equation ....on the roof, on the windows.... We were a bit of a spectacle. 

As we were returning home, we stopped by to get some gas, and there was a fella on the other side of the pump who was looking at us like we were fleeing from a crime scene or something. 

I took the squeegee to the back window, so that I could look out my rear view mirror. It took me scrubbing and scrubbing to get through the blood/mud mixture that had dried on there. 

It was then that I realized why the guy was looking at us so strangely! Blood was smeared everywhere, and he was obviously uncomfortable with that!

(Dave M)

Action Point

I find that often in Christian circles, people try to paint Christianity as being kind, gentle, and tame - which certainly there are kind and gentle aspects. 

However, when Christ died for us, it wasn't a pretty sight, and it wasn't tame. Actually, it was gruesome and violent. He had endured great pain and suffered immensely. He would have left a trail of blood to the cross. At the foot of the cross, the ground would have been saturated with His blood.

So, why dwell on this? Because each of us needs a wake-up call or a reminder at points. Jesus paid a price!!!  He sacrificed for us!!!  Our salvation is not without a price!!!  He endured pain, so that you and I could have eternal life!!!  It was only through His blood that our salvation was made complete. 

\

Take some time today to reflect on the horrific scene of the cross and remember that Jesus was willing to pay the greatest price of all for your and my souls!!!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Remember when tracking in the dark to have someone stay at the last blood spot and mark it with tape or toilet paper, while someone else continues to move forward in the tracking process. It's easy to get lost in the dark while tracking, so make sure to mark your spots well. It'll be your way out when you are done. 

October 14, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Love Is Spelled T...I...M...E   (MQ)

Bible Study Verses

Proverbs 12:18

The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (NIV)

Thoughts

This past Thursday night, my son and I had the opportunity to work through a concept we occasionally talk about. I've always encouraged him to only shoot a white tail if he has the time to deal with all the work that follows. I've often told him that from the start of shooting the deer to being done with all the work, it's going to take about three hours. 

So, here we were hunting on a school night. Personally, my selectivity (if that's a word), increases when I don't have as much time to work with. So, at 7:00, he called me up on our two way radios and told me that he had just taken a doe. With about a half hour of daylight left, I packed it up and headed over to his stand to try to get a start on tracking while we still had a little light. 

It soon turned dark, and the trail wasn't the easiest. It had been drizzling on and off during the hunt, so the ground was wet. We were able to track the deer easier by following blood that was on the top of ferns. Eventually, we found the deer. We had to field dress it, drag it back, get it secured on top of the Yukon, and head off for the processors. By the time, we got done dropping the deer off at the processors, it was 10:05 - almost exactly three hours after he had contacted me. 

(Dave M)

Action Point

Well, my point to Caleb has always been that you have to be willing to make the investment of time into the hunt, or you shouldn't be out there hunting. Shooting without the time for the follow up can potentially do more harm than good. Trying to rush the process just doesn't work very well.

Sharing our faith with others is often the same way. I have witnessed many who just drop their Christian worldview on others without being willing to invest the time in follow up conversations. An "issue" will come up, and the "bomb" gets dropped about what is right or wrong for that particular situation. The explosion occurs, the damage is done, and the conversation ends. People walk away frustrated and often feel "judged".

Well, there certainly is no magic formula for witnessing to others, but let me encourage you in your witnessing that IF you are going to share your faith through conversations on various issues, that you need to make sure you are willing to invest in that person's life later. You can't expect someone to adopt your Christian view without understanding why you hold that view....i.e. it takes time to get to know one another. After all, the reason for witnessing is because great love was shown to you and me through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. If you love someone enough to witness to them, remember that love is spelled T...I...M...E.

Blessings on your conversations today!

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Hunt smarter, not harder! If something is not working for your particular hunting situation, don't keep repeating a failed hunting strategy. Reassess the situation and try a different method.

October 13, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Keeping Clean Is A Challenge and A Goal For All Believers   (MQ)

Bible Study Verse

I John 1:9

But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (NLT)

Thoughts

It would not work. The safety seemed broken. That is not good on any firearm or other weapon that uses a system to safe the weapon.

Why wouldn't it work? It was time to go to the gunsmith to get it fixed.

I was embarrassed and surprised to hear the smith ask me, "How long has it been since you cleaned this weapon?" As he presented it to me, deep inside the shotgun, above the trigger mechanism was a lot of chaff, weed seed, and other debris from time afield.

Embarrassed, I responded to him, "Obviously too long."

(Jack M)

Action Point
Keeping clean is a challenge and a goal for all believers. We can easily allow the "dirt" and "trash" of sin to pile up in our lives and to keep us from functioning spiritually. This condition is not safe for us.

Sin in our lives separates us from God. Unconfessed sin keeps us from enjoying our relationship with Him and from joining Him in His work here in this world.

We have the challenge and the option to keep our lives pure and clean. God says repeatedly that we are to be holy because He is a holy God. He would not command what we are unable to do.

Some think happiness is what life is about. God wants us to be holy, not happy!

So keep your life clean. Take heed to the Word of God. Listen to the voice of His Spirit as you read the Word and pray. Confess your sin immediately, and trust Christ to clean up all that you cannot recognize as sin. But, "fess up" on the stuff you know is sin.

God is faithful. He will clean you up and forgive you when you confess to Him. Then you can function correctly, live as you should, and enjoy the blessings of holiness that He has promised and that He will give.

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Invest in easy-to-use cleaning equipment for your weapons. Use it regularly and correctly to maintain a weapon that is safe and functional. To have a functional, clean, and safe weapon will make hunting and shooting more enjoyable. It could save your life. Another advantage is accuracy. Most weapons shoot with more consistency and accuracy when cleaned regularly.

 

October 12, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . There Is A Critical Place To Have Your Name  (Jack M)

Bible Study Verse

Revelation 21:27

Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. (NIV)

Thoughts

What's in a name? How will you be remembered? 

There is a story with the picture above. A recent trip to Arco, ID acquainted me with this mountain. It is a long standing tradition that the graduating classes find a way and a place to paint their class's year of graduation on this mountain. It is their way of celebrating graduation and of being remembered.

(Jack M)

Action Point

There are good names. There are bad names. There are good ways to be remembered. There are bad ways to be remembered. Some leave a lasting positive legacy. Some leave a lasting negative legacy. One's name is often instantly associated with the character, the legacy, the reputation, and the accomplishments of an individual.

One's name in the Bible stands for his/her total reputation, character, being, the whole person. It stands for you as a human being.

There is a critical place to have your name written down. That place is in the Lamb's Book of Life. This seems to be a literal book. At the least it is a scroll, a list, or a record of those who are saved, those who will enter Heaven and live forever with God.

Is your name written there? Are you one a member of God's family by having received Jesus as your own Savior and Lord? Is your name entered in the Book of Life? If not,  " . . . Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved . . .," Acts 16:31b (NIV).   

This warning is to those whose name is not written in that book, "Anyone whose name was not found written in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire," Revelation 20:15 (NIV).

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day

Record the serial numbers, the make and model of your firearms. Keep this written list in a safe place. Consider a special named coverage with your insurance provider for your firearms and other valuable gear. Many insurance companies put a cap or a limit on the amount they will reimburse for loss, theft, or destruction of firearms unless you add to those limits. It only takes a few valuable weapons to exceed that limit with most companies.