Bible Study Verse
Deuteronomy 12:15-16
Nevertheless, you may slaughter your animals in any of your towns and eat as much of the meat as you want, as if it were gazelle or deer, according to the blessing the Lord your God gives you. Both the ceremonially unclean and the clean may eat it. But you must not eat the blood; pour it out on the ground like water. (NIV)
Thoughts
Is it okay to be a hunter? Is it okay to kill an animal? Is it okay to eat the meat of animals? Does God approve or condemn these practices? These verses clearly sanction the slaughter and the consumption of animals for meat. Jesus ate fish while on the earth, and chose commercial fishermen to be among his apostles.
The animals are a part of the stewardship of the earth that God has given to humans. Specifically named in these verses are domestic and wild game animals. He approves the use of animals for meat, leather, and for labor. It is amazing to hunting dog lovers that using our dogs for hunting is considered abuse of them by some people. Let God's rules and guidelines apply to our lives.
(Jack M)
Action Point
God's Word is practical. It gives us guidance and strength. It gives us clear instruction on many issues that impact our lives. It tells us all we need to know in order to please the Lord (II Peter 1:2-3). It does not tell us all we might like to know; but the Bible does give us all that we need to know in order to please God and live a life that He approves. We need:
- To hear it. To read it.
- To meditate on it.
- To memorize it.
- To practice its principles.
It will bring life and satisfaction to all who do so.
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Do your best to bleed out the animals you take during hunting. Sometimes the shot itself will accomplish this task. Learn to do so properly, and humanely. Improper bleeding may ruin a cape that will be used for mounting. Go to an experienced hunter, or your taxidermist to learn this skill.
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