August 31, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . We Must LEARN To Share Our Faith  (MQ)  Bible Study Verse  Mark 1:17  And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." (ESV) Thoughts  Cliff and I were privileged to travel to Wyoming to spend some time with two more members of the Sportsmen's Devotional Team in the high mountain areas of the Tetons. They were gracious and patient hosts. They wanted to share with us a wonderful new pastime they both enjoyed, namely fly fishing. I had attempted it a few times without much success. Our teachers gave us some great instruction and help. They patiently taught us the knots, procedures of casting, which flies to use, and many other skills. We enjoyed some great success because they patiently taught us these new skills. (Jack M) Action Point As the Lord went about the process of selecting His disciples, he used their profession as an example of what he wanted them to learn. They were fishermen. He would teach them to fish for men. This word picture must have been attractive and powerful to them. By word and example Jesus did so. These disciples would become great students of Christ and also of the Word of God which they learned to understand and obey. They indeed became fishers of men. My point is that we must LEARN to share our faith and how to be saved with others. There are many different approaches to do so. But make it a point to learn some method to share your faith and the means of eternal life with others. Jesus made each of us to be a witness for Him.   Sportsmen's Tip of the Day  Learn the skills required to become successful in your favorite outdoor pursuits. Time invested in learning greatly enhances the success to be enjoyed. Also make up your mind to share by teaching your skills to others especially young people. There is great personal satisfaction in doing so. And you will gain some new hunting buddies! Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 30, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Has The World Led You Down The Wrong Path  (Jack M) Bible Study  Verse  I Corinthians 3:11  For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. (ESV)  Thoughts Working with concrete is hard work.  I always enjoyed it because I knew that unless something strange happened that it would be there a long time.  Only intentional demolition or some really radical natural process can destroy concrete. In the picture above, my son and a friend begin to pour the footers for a home addition.  The footer was dug a bit deeper than required.  But, that only adds to the security of the actual foundation which will be laid later. (Jack M) Action Point Jesus Christ is pictured in the above scripture as being that sure foundation for our faith.  Everything for our future is totally dependent upon Him.   All Earth focused beliefs, ideologies, theologies and life paradigms will not stand up to the standard of truth and eternity. What is the foundation for your life?  Is it Jesus Christ?  Are you living daily with Him and for Him?  Or has the world led you down the wrong path. Build your faith and your life upon Jesus Christ.  He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day The shoes or boots that you choose for a particular outdoor activity are critically important.  Be willing to buy the right footwear to meet the needs of your chosen activity.  If you take good care of your feet, they will take good care of you. Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 29, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Be A Link In Your Family Chain To Lead Them To Christ  (Thunderbay.NOAA.GOV)

Bible Study Verse Deuteronomy 4:40    Keep His decrees and commands, which I am giving you today, so that it may go well with you and your children after you and that you may live long in the land the Lord your God gives you for all time. (NIV) Thoughts  I live along the coast of Lake Huron where the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is located. This marine sanctuary has some of the best preserved sunken ships in the world due to the fresh water. Over 200 preserved ships are at the bottom and a good chunk of our local tourism has evolved for those who wish to come and either snorkel or scuba dive. The other day I was snorkeling with my daughter checking out an old shipping dock and lane, that for the most part, lies below the surface of the lake. It was a beautiful day and we could see 60 ft down to the bottom. We were checking out the fish, old posts, and other artifacts that had been left behind from an earlier time.  We had a great time exploring and contemplating all that had happened at this little port. There were quite a few clues left below the surface that allowed us to piece together the type of activity that would have been happening here. Though we didn't have all the information on this particular spot, there was enough evidence left for us to certainly get a picture. (Dave M) Action Point One day, your life and my life will probably be inspected by someone from a future generation...grandkids, great grandkids . . . a long distant relative somewhere down the chain. They are going to be looking back and inspecting the evidence of your life. I heard a quote awhile back that said something to the effect that no one can really get an accurate measure of who a man is until he is in his later years when:  His children choose to come home to visit, that's a sign of what he invested in.   His neighbors swing by to have a cup of coffee and visit, that says something.   The people in his community can identify that he was honest in his dealings from one place to the next, that also says something.  The evidence of what he invested in their lives will still show itself even though he may be gone.  Your life is not lived in a box, and neither is mine. God expects each of us to spend our days living for Him. Someday, the evidence of your life will show itself. What will people see about you? What will God see?   The beautiful thing about God is that He chooses to redeem what has been lost. He never wants someone to stray away from Him. He is always willing to take them back to restore them to wholeness.  If you look back at the course of your life with shame today, know that God wants restoration for you. Ask Him to lead your life fully and completely from this day forward. Also ask Him to help you redeem the things in your life that you have lost. Not because of selfish gain for you, but to let them know that God has changed your life and that He can do the same for them! Be a link in your family chain to lead people to Christ! Sportsmen's Tip of the Day If you are snorkeling in an area, make sure to mark the area with a buoy so others who may be driving a boat have a visual signal that someone else is in the area.   Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 28, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . God Keeps His Promises (Fred B)

Bible Study Verses Isaiah 31:4-5  For thus the Lord has spoken to me: "As a lion roars, and a young lion over his prey (When a multitude of shepherds is summoned against him, He will not be afraid of their voice Nor be disturbed by their noise), so the Lord of hosts will come down to fight for Mount Zion and for its hill. Like birds flying about, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem. Defending, He will also deliver it; passing over, He will preserve it." (NKJV) Thoughts My sunset picture on Siesta Key, FL, was enhanced by the sudden flyover of a gull (thankfully not on a bombing run!).  Looking at the picture later, it reminded me of God's promise to Israel, recorded in Isaiah 31:4-5. This promise was apparently fulfilled in 1917, according to author J.R. Church in Hidden Prophecies in Psalms.  The Turks occupied Jerusalem just before Christmas that year, and the British army was ready to attack and capture the Holy City. British General and committed Christian Edmund Allenby contacted London for orders. The British General wanted to spare the holy sites of Jerusalem from destruction or damage, by not invading violently.  The answer back from British Headquarters was Isaiah 31:5. When he saw Isaiah's words "as birds flying," he got the idea of doing a massive flyover, using hundreds of military aircraft on the next day.  Shortly after dawn, the Turks were shocked by the skies over Jerusalem being filled with aircraft. Well, his plan worked, as the Turks surrendered, basically without a fight, frightened by the "birds flying over."  Thankful for God's answer to his prayer, the British general dismounted his steed, and respectfully walked through the gate into the Holy City. And so, "the Lord of Hosts defended Jerusalem."   (Fred B) Action Point God's record of keeping his promises is 100%! None of "His good words . . . have ever failed," whether uttered to Israel, to believers, and even to unbelievers.  We can rest on His promises and upon the guidance, the Peace, and the comfort of the Holy Spirit--no matter what is happening around us. His Word and His promises will never fail. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day To photograph wildlife action/movement, us the "sports setting" on your digital camera, or video mode. Even fast-flying birds (like above) can be caught in mid-air. You'll freeze some great action, and it'll make you look like a professional photographer too!    Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 27, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . We Have A Long Journey Ahead Of Us (Tom L)

Bible Study Verse II Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) Thoughts It all began in late May on the Yellowstone and Jackson lakes. We had to cast sinking fly line with large streamers long distances to reach the prime drop offs where the Yellowstone cutthroats and lake trout were lurking. It took some practice to be able to reach those distances.  When we were not fishing from a boat, but on the shore of a small mountain lake with trees behind us, we had to use a roll cast. On one mountain lake we ran into a callibaetis hatch right on the shoreline. This required long accurate casts avoiding the over-hanging trees with a delicate presentation. Occasionally, we had to make a side cast to the rising trout. Fishing the creeks and rivers also required a variety of different casts. Two Sportsmen's Devotional writers came to Wyoming to learn fly fishing. We started them with all the basics and after some practice they experienced some success. The important thing is that we all realized that fly fishing requires learning new skills and continued practice to develop those skills. (Tom L) Action Point The same is true of our faith and our relationship with God. Once we are saved and the foundation of our faith is laid, we have a long journey ahead of us. It is God's hope that we "grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."  No matter how long we've been a Christian, BE HUMBLE:  We haven't arrived.  We have a long way to go.  Continue reading and studying God's Word, be in prayer, and be involved in Christian fellowship. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Once you decide that you want to learn how to fly fish, have an experienced fly fisherman advise you on equipment and teach you the basics. This will aid in your success and prevent some frustration. Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 26, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Being With Our Father For Eternity Is Worth The Rugged Journey  (NPS)

Bible Study Verses Matthew 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (NIV) Thoughts In order to see one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Wind River Range, you must undergo a great challenge. The lake lies directly under an alpine glacier. During the summer, runoff from the melting ice flows over a high rock ledge directly into the lake. The challenge consists of a 10,000 ft. trail that is very steep and rocky with narrow switchbacks.  Few people are willing to pack into this lake; but once you arrive there, the beauty and fishing make the long, rugged trip worthwhile.  (Tom L) Action Point The word tells us to "enter through the narrow gate," and "narrow is the way that leads to life." It's a road of suffering and self-denial. We must keep our focus on Christ.  Being with Our Father in Heaven for eternity is worth the rugged journey. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day When you are hiking or riding in rugged country, take your time. It is safer to lead your horses up and down steep and rocky trails.    Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 25, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Nothing Should Ever Overcome The Responsibility That We Have To . . . . (Mike T)

Bible Study Verses Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.  (ESV) Thoughts  It was opening day of bow season, October 1, 1993. I was 24 years old and excited about having time off to hunt whitetail deer. The leaves were still in their place providing excellent cover for both the hunter and his prey. A light, but cool breeze combined with a mixture of sun and clouds made for a perfect Michigan day. I climbed into an old wooden and abandoned tree-stand, built more than twenty years ago, and not more than 10 feet off of the ground. I wouldn't complain though, as I was just happy to be in the air and glad that it held my weight.  The first hour went by quickly and without any action it was time to stand and stretch. Looking to the east, I saw what I came for, an 8 pointer striding in my direction. He wasn't a monster, but he was still a shooter. I readied myself and as if on cue, the young buck trotted into bow range and stopped approximately thirty yards away. I had only a small opening to shoot through, as the fall foliage was thick.  The bow vibrated, as I released the bow string pushing the arrow with deadly force towards my unsuspecting target. A direct hit caused the buck to hunch over, as he bolted through the brush and ground cover. I would find him fifty yards away, breathing his last, as I cautiously approached.   (Mike T) Action Point The story doesn't end there. I only had time to hunt in the morning, as a playoff softball game awaited me in the evening and we had a long drive ahead of us. If I left right away and if I hurried, I would have just enough time to get ready for the game. However, as life goes, we ran out of gas, causing us to arrive, just as the game was starting. I was the head coach, so I quickly had to set the line-up, pay the ump, and run on to the field. And then all of a sudden one of my players began yelling and shouting at me about playing time. He totally caught me off guard. The situation quickly escalated into a yelling match between the two of us, as my adrenaline was already running high from an awesome hunt, the stress of running out of gas, and the pressure and excitement of trying to get to the game on time. We would later work things out, but I will never forget this opening day hunt, as it was filled with such raw emotion from the beginning to the end. Nonetheless, it serves as a reminder that as Christians we need to control our emotions and realize that the earthly things we believe to be so important are really just fleeting events.  Nothing should ever overcome the responsibility that we have to love each other, forgive others, and ultimately serve our King. Not even a great opening day. Sportsman's Tip of the Day After hearing about many hunters getting seriously hurt falling from tree-stands, I do not recommend climbing into old abandoned homemade hunting structures. It's not worth it. Always wear a safety harness and spend the money needed to get the latest and greatest tree-stand and safety harness. Your family will love you for it.   Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 24, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . When My Guard Is Down, I Am Most Vulnerable And More Likely To Get Snake Bit . . . . Northern Copperhead  (CT.GOV)  Bible Study Verse I Peter 5:8    Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (ESV) Thoughts While on a camping trip with my family we did some hiking. The trail we were on was surrounded by raspberry bushes that were bending under the weight of their delicious fruit. As my kids kept jumping off of the trail to grab a snack I warned them to be careful and to watch for snakes, because the area was known to have Copperheads.  At first the kids were very cautious but after a while they became more and more relaxed in their pursuit of fresh raspberries. Then it happened, I was standing next to my 11 year old daughter as she stepped off the trail and literally came within inches of stepping on a Copperhead. She screamed and thank God the snake darted into the brush.  (Terry L) Action Point When I first came to Christ I was extremely sensitive to sin and to my conduct. Now after several years I have found myself at times not paying as much attention as I should. During these times when my guard is down, I am most vulnerable and more likely to get snake bit.  That night around the campfire I used my daughters encounter to illustrate to my children that they always need to be watchful as they move through life because they have an enemy who is watching and waiting.  Satan won't strike when you are paying attention and standing strong in the Word. Oh no, he will wait until you are tired or struggling and then he will pounce. Heed the words of Peter and be sober minded and watchful. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day If you are an outdoorsman you should have knowledge of your local dangers like venomous snakes, predators, and poisonous plants. When you are you should be able to ID them and you should know how to treat any unfortunate encounters.  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 23, 2013ug    Today's Photograph . . . .  When In The Middle Of The Rapids Keep Your Eyes On God  (Travis L) Bible Study Verse Psalm 23: 2-4 He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Even when I walk  through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.  NLT) Thoughts We were rafting down the Jacques-Cartier River in Quebec last week as a family. This river contains various "classes" of rapids in it. Being our maiden voyage rafting, we did a section of the river that wasn't too difficult.  Our first section of rapids still ended up being a bit rough though! We hadn't refined our turning skills, and half-way through the rapids, we got seriously stuck on a rock. We tried shifting our weight; we each tried jumping up and down (pop-corning) to jar us loose, and we pushed off the rock with our paddles with everything we had. Somehow we got off the rock, but it was a little hairy.  The current was so swift, that we just didn't seem to be able to maneuver fast enough for what was coming at us. As the trip went on though, the rapids felt slower than the first set and we were able to navigate them much better than before. The speed of the current didn't change, but our ability to recognize what was happening and what to do about it was much sharper than earlier in the trip. (Dave M) Action Point Life certainly has its way of throwing turmoil at us. We can be cruising along in peaceful waters and all of a sudden, everything seems rocky. I don't know about you, but I have witnessed some amazing people in very difficult circumstances. Whether they were dealing with cancer, the death of a spouse, a problem with their house . . . they were able to walk through their adversity with an amazing level of peace and patience. I've also witnessed others who have gone through similar experiences, yet their problems seemed to be absolutely overwhelming and despair overtook them, resulting in anger and bitterness.  What's the difference? Faith in God. Everyone will have trials and adversity to deal with in life. But those who put their trust in God, will find peace in the middle of the problems. Knowing that God is in complete control of every aspect of my or your life provides great comfort! It allows the current to slow down a bit, so that we can get our bearings straight while still being in what others may perceive as a torrent. God doesn't take us out of the current; He just goes through it with us . . . and that makes all the difference in the world!  If you are stuck in the middle of the rapids right now, keep your eyes on God - He will guide you through! Sportsmen's Tip of the Day When rafting through rapids, always look for the "V" in the river and go straight to the middle of the "V". That will be your best route through.   Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 22, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Disagreements Might Not Occur If Both Sides Take Time To Listen To The Full Story

Bible Study Verse Proverbs 18:17  The first one to plead his cause seems right, until his neighbor comes and examines him. (NKJV) Thoughts As a conservation officer, I can't tell you how many times this verse has been true for me. The story you are given by the suspect/complainant sounds fine until the other party tells you the rest of the story, or their side of it.  Then you have to decide, based on the evidence that you collect, what is closest to the truth.  (Dave H) Action Point Don't be quick to jump to conclusions. (If you have kids you will undoubtedly know that wisdom.) Listen carefully to both sides before making a judgment.  Disagreements might not occur if both sides take time to listen to the full story. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day You may be called upon to be a witness, or report a wildlife violation. Take time to gather the facts as well as you can. Do not jump to conclusions; but carefully evaluate what you have seen, and try to look at all sides of the issue. Make careful notes, as you will not remember the incident as clearly as you thought you would when it comes time to go to court.  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 21, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . We Need To Truly Live In Freedom And Not Just "Get Through"  (NPS) Bible Study Verse John 6:24   Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor His disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. (NIV) Thoughts This past week, I found myself at the mouth of the Saint Lawrence Seaway whale watching. We were shrouded in fog, and I wondered if the trip was going to be worth it. Were we going to be able to see anything at all with our limited sight distance? The first hour was slow, but when we found the whales, they were everywhere.  For the next two hours, we spotted about 80 different sightings of whales - minke, fin, and hump back. It was exhilarating to see these magnificent creatures up so close - at points within 15 yards of our boat. My favorite part of seeing them surface was seeing the spout of water blow up into the air as they surfaced for a breath.  Our guide explained that these animals are able to stay under water anywhere from five to ten minutes, but eventually they have to surface to catch their breath. God designed them to need air. As much as they seem like a gigantic fish, they aren't, and their bodies don't function that way. Many people try living their lives without God, but it just doesn't work. They dive into life with the mindset that they can "grind it out," "hunker down," "grit your teeth," and "suck it up" to get through things. But the bottom line is that eventually we need to breathe - we need to truly live in freedom and not just "get through." Our life is designed to need God. As much as we try to do it on our own, we can only go so long without Him.  (Dave M) Action Point Let me encourage you today. If you feel like you are drowning or that you need a breath of fresh air and life has got you down, turn to God today and have an honest conversation with Him about where you are. Maybe you aren't really sure if there is a God . . . maybe you are a believer but your faith is waning . . . turn to Him. He will be the breath of fresh air that you need.  God desires a relationship with you; there is no need to try to do it on your own! He designed each of us to need Him. That's not a bad thing. He loved you so much that He sent His very own Son to save you from the very sins you are struggling so desperately with right now. He will be your breath of fresh air to sustain every aspect of your life . . . trust Him. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day If you are crossing an international border to hunt or fish, make sure to have the proper ID paperwork readily accessible to make the border crossing as smooth as possible.  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 20, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Many People Are Like Crabs . . . . Mudflat Fiddler Crab (NPS)

Bible Study Verse 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (ESV) Thoughts We were blessed with a donation of a house and 42 foot boat for a weekend on the Chesapeake Bay for our mentoring program for boys. We went out in the morning and filled our cooler before 10 AM.  While at the dock cleaning the fish a couple of the men took some of the scraps and taught the boys how to catch crabs. It amazes me how the crabs refuse to let go of the bait while you pull them in. They will hold on to what they desire even if it means their death.  (Terry L) Action Point Many people are like crabs, they have desires, sins, habits, and whatever that they refuse to let go of even if it means spiritual death or actual death.  The above scripture speaks directly at temptations which we know can result in sin. I also know that our Heavenly Father is also faithful in helping us to let go of things like guilt, anger, regret, and lust if we let Him.  If you are a believer and are holding on to something that you need to let go of go to Jesus and let Him take it away. If you are not a believer I beg of you to search your heart and seek out the Lord. It is not easy to let go. Trust me I know I struggle just as much as the next man. But with Him, ye can do it. "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery," Galatians 5:1 (ESV). Sportsmen's Tip of the Day LIVE your life for Him. Remember, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me," Galatians 2:20  (ESV).  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 19, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . It's Amazing What God Will Say In A Little Time If You Give Him A Chance And Your Full Attention  (NPS)  Bible Study Verse Matthew 14:23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone. (NIV)    Thoughts This is one passage where I can really relate to Jesus. From time to time I go to the mountains alone. It may be for an afternoon quail hunt, perhaps to try to call in a coyote; or sometimes to get away for a couple of days to clear my head and recharge my batteries--physical, emotional, and spiritual.  On those trips, I usually sleep a lot, hike some, and spend lots of time sitting and looking at a special part of God's creation, a part that He made just for me, for that moment.  There's always a couple of books handy -- Chuck Swindoll and Philip Yancey have gone on a lot of trips with me that they don't know about! And, there's always a copy of God's word, the Bible. These trips are great times to read His word, pray, and listen. Especially listen! It's amazing what God will say in a little time if you give Him a chance, and your full attention.  (Cliff S) Action Point Get away alone daily, even if it's just to shut the door to your office or sit in your car alone for a few minutes. Read a few Bible verses and share your thoughts with God through prayer. God wants to hear from you, and He wants to speak to you. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day When hunting or fishing, always be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you'll    Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August 18, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . My God Is So Anxious To Find One Whose Heart Will Be Yielded And Surrendered To Him  (NPS)

Bible Study Verse II Chronicles 16:7-9 Just after that, Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said, "Because you went for help to the king of Aram and didn't ask God for help, you've lost a victory over the army of the king of Aram. Didn't the Ethiopians and Libyans come against you with superior forces, completely outclassing you with their chariots and cavalry? But you asked God for help and He gave you the victory. God is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to Him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God's help. Now you're in trouble-one round of war after another."  (The Message) Thoughts Another version says,  "For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars," II Chronicles 16:7 (NKJV). Have you ever heard that the Living God was so actively pursuing us, so dedicated and committed to searching us out?  It reminds me of a pack of lion hounds on a fresh cougar scent. The chase becomes so enthusiastic, there's no way you can stop the dogs until the mountain lion is treed. Lost dogs have been known to be found in neighboring states, because nothing would deter their focus, their drive, or their goal.  (Wes W) Action Point My God is so anxious to find one whose heart will be yielded and surrendered to Him. He desires to fully support, strengthen, bless, and uphold that person with personalized attention and relationship. Who wouldn't want to be found by God? Who wouldn't be a little curious about His blessing? Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Following a pack of dogs could take two hours or two days. Go prepared and be in shape.  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up

August  17, 2013    Today's Photograph . . . . Our Heavenly Father Takes Delight In Us (MQ) Bible Study Verse John 15:11   These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. (NASB)  Thoughts During the winter months, trout fishing in Arizona usually isn't too productive for me. However, this past winter, I took my two younger boys, 17 and 19 years of age, for a mountain bike excursion. We had small day packs with telescopic rods and all of the gear that we needed for fishing. We only rode a couple of miles into the canyon, and found the hole that I was looking for. We had the best time catching trout in the middle of winter!  For me, my greatest pleasure was seeing my boys, whom I love so much, having joy in a really simple activity in God's beautiful creation. Our heavenly Father takes the same delight in us.  (Tom H) Action Point Seek out a time where you can do something clean and fun with a son, grandson, or close friend. Sportsmen's Tip of the Day Put a few energy or protein bars in your day pack, and, of course, enough water. When I fish I don't think about eating, but you need energy to hike or mountain bike back to your car.  Sportsmen's Devotional Web Site  Sign Up