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Topic ClosedDaily Sportsmen’s Devotional

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**Robert E. Lee IV **

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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 19 December 2009 at 14:31
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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 20, 2009
Today's Photograph.... He's Got You in His Sights (Cliff S)

Bible Study Verse
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)

Thoughts
In September I had the good fortune to have an antelope permit for the Prescott, Arizona area. It's tough to draw these permits and they are very special, perhaps once in a lifetime. One of my closest friends has a home in the area where I drew and opened his house to several of my friends holding two additional permits, my son, and myself.

The day of my hunt, it was like I needed shooting lessons. Four of us were on the stalk and twice I blew setups on the antelope we were hunting. Finally, about noon and after several miles and a third setup, I connected. Needless to say, we were tired! We had dogged this goat for about seven or eight miles all told and it was a hot September morning. I think the antelope was tired, too, and may have finally just given up in sheer exhaustion!

After the kill, we took photos, field dressed the antelope, and called to get help (a truck) getting him out. As we were doing this, I looked up and here came my friend and his son who had been watching us in their spotting scopes from a distance of a couple miles. They knew we had to be tired and thirsty and had thrown on their packs and hurried to where we were to assist us in carrying the animal out to the truck.

As I thought about that later, I realized what a treasure it is to have friends like that. Friends that you don't even have to call, but that will be there anytime you need them.
(Cliff S)

Action Point
We're sometimes tempted to be "Lone Ranger Christians". Yeah, we're tough. We can take on all comers alone. Bring it on Satan, we'll show you what tough is. Uh huh, those are usually the last words right before the fall!

All through the Bible, Christians and believers in God were in fellowship. In the Old Testament, the meeting place was the Temple. In the New Testament, the early Christians met in homes and in churches. They worshipped together and they fought together. They lifted each other up in prayer, songs, and the teaching of God's word.

The point? If you're not involved in fellowship with other Christian men and women, you're in trouble. Satan knows an easy target when he sees one. He's got you in his sights. On the antelope hunt, there were ten men sitting around the table talking, laughing, and sharing the hunt and their faith in Christ. That's called strength in numbers!


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Choose your hunting partners carefully. Be sure they share your values and, hopefully, your faith. But, remember, a hunting camp where everybody's sober and prays over their meals is also a great place to bring unbelieving friends to introduce them to Christ.

God,Mother,Country,and Hot Rods. Done with political crap.LOL
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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 21, 2009
Today's Photograph....Enjoy Being Home in the Warmth of His Presence. (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Nehemiah 9:17c
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.

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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 21 December 2009 at 17:27
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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 22, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Bear Track (FWS.gov)

Bible Study Verse
Matthew 26:41
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." (NIV)

Thoughts
My family and I were backpacking a stretch of trail where there had been problems with an "unfriendly bear". This black had been wreaking havoc at one particular campsite that we had been encouraged to forego staying at. However, due to an injury my wife sustained along the trail, we had to stop and stay.

Prior to us staying at this campsite, we had spoken with a group of guys who had also just stayed at this particular site the night before. They had experienced no problems. That was good news to hear!

When we arrived at the cove, I had everyone working on setting up camp. While they did this, I went down to the water's edge to refill our water bottles. As I walked down to the shore of Lake Superior, I discovered sizable tracks from a bear that had walked along the water's edge. Apparently, the bear had been there between the last group and our arrival, a difference of one to two hours.

Although the other group had not had a problem, my guard was back on high alert because of the tracks. So no one else would be scared, I erased the bear tracks in the wet sand with my own footprints. I didn't want anyone else to see what I had seen.
(Dave M)

Action Point
One of the greatest attacks on Christian men today occurs via the internet with pornographic sites. With just a few quick clicks of the key board, a fella can find himself viewing something that he was never supposed to see. The problem is that these images stick in the head and lead to games of the mind. Someone who is trapped by this particular sin may be able to erase the tracks so that no one else knows where they've been on the computer. But, that doesn't mean you weren't there. You've still placed yourself in a dangerous position. You don't know what the consequences will be.

As food for thought, my kids later told me that they had seen the bear tracks too. They knew in spite of my cover up! Covering the tracks doesn't make it right; you've placed yourself and family in danger!

Read I Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (NIV). Next ask Him for forgiveness and wisdom in this area. Follow Romans 13:14, "Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature" (NIV). Seek biblical counsel and prayer, and change your computer usage today.

Remember HE WILL HONOR YOUR ODEDIENCE TO HIS WORD. MEDITATE ON HIS WORD DAY AND NIGHT.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Satellite phones are a great way to have a connection to the "outside" world while you are deep in the wild. If you ever have a serious problem, it's an option for getting help.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 23, 2009
Today's Photograph: . . . Let The Local Authorities Deal With The Violators (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Romans 14:12
So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. (NIV)

Thoughts
Unfortunately, I recently had to deal with some unsportsmanlike outdoorsmen. My son and sister were headed out for a morning turkey hunt and some quality bonding time. But, when they arrived at their blind, they found that someone had taken a tractor with a lift and twisted the blind around. The blind was still intact, but was facing a different direction. I had hunted in that blind until about dark the previous night, so the perpetrators had done this during the night and before 5:45am.

Needless to say, none of us were pleased with the situation. As we looked around, we could clearly see the tracks of the tractor and where they had come from. We simply followed the tracks to figure out who was responsible for doing this. It didn't take too long to gather the necessary information. We were able to turn it over to the proper authorities.
(Dave M)

Action Point
Due to the Fall in the Garden of Eden, sin entered this world. It is still here with us today, thousands of years later. Often, we still have the same reaction as Adam--thinking that we can either hide from God or cover up the sin. It doesn't work that way.

Sin always leaves a path! Sometimes, it is visible to the human eye and sometimes not. But, God always sees it.

One day, we will all be held accountable for our actions. Let's make sure that we leave a path of righteousness and faithfulness!


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
If you have a problem in the outdoors, take pictures of what happened as proof for the local conservation officers. If it is a recurring problem, a cam tracker can be of great help in catching the offenders in the act. For your safety, let the local authorities deal with violations!
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 23 December 2009 at 17:56

 MERRY CHRISTMAS  BSB's

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 24, 2009
Today's Photograph: . . . Christmas Eve on Squaw Creek, MT (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Revelation 1:13-17
And in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His chest with a golden sash. His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow; and His eyes were like a flame of fire. His feet were like burnished bronze, when it has been made to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters. In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man And He placed His right hand on me, saying, "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last.

Revelation 22:20b
"Yes, I am coming quickly." Amen Come, Lord Jesus. (NASB)

Thoughts
Advent is the period of time beginning four Sundays before Christmas. Although many people in the modern world pay no attention to Advent that was not the case with the early church.

They gave a deeper meaning to Advent than we do today. They celebrated the fact that the Lord sent His Son to earth to live, die, and be raised again for our sins. Not only that, they used it as a time to renew their zeal in looking forward to the Lord's second coming and as a time to share the love and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him.
(Dave H)

Action Point
Let us go back to the basics the early church used. Let us use this time to reflect not only on the Lord's birth, but also to renew our zeal in looking forward to His next coming and for sharing His love with those who do not yet know Him. Yes, we love Christmas because we celebrate the first arrival of the Lord. But it is the second coming for which we need to be preparing. Remember, the scriptures predicted precisely when Jesus would come the first time and still no one was ready to receive Him.

This time, no one knows the hour or the day that the Lord will come again. Can you even imagine how unprepared people will be? We should be as earnest and thrilled about the advent to Christmas as we are to the advent of hunting season!

As we approach Christmas, be sure to share the gospel with the lost. Many of you have hunting or fishing buddies who do not know the Lord. Take this time to do more than just say "Merry Christmas" to them. Explain to them why it truly is a "Merry Christmas" for those who know the Lord.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
The weather is turning cold. The water in many of the lakes and rivers is frozen over. Be very careful during this period of time. Carry some rope with you during your outdoor expeditions to help you or someone else get out of a bad situation in water. Carry space blankets with you to warm yourself or someone else. Hypothermia sets in quickly. If it should occur, get the person out of their wet clothes quickly and get them into something dry. Give them some of the extra clothes you have on. You may have to use your own body heat to warm them. Climb into a sleeping bag with them to warm them, or wrap yourselves together in the space blankets.
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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 25, 2009
Today's Photograph: Christmas on Spanish Creek, MT (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Luke 1:38
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her. (NIV)

Merry CHRISTmas

Thoughts
Submission: a concept with which many of us struggle--submission to God, our spouses, the government, or the church. In the wild, we see submission happen every day. Cub bears or lions submit to their mamas; fawns submit to the does; calves to the cow elk. They submit or they die. But, with us humans, submission is a major issue.

Paul wrote words regarding submission that have fueled debate between men and women for ages. Submission to God's ways is called obedience and it proves our love for Him. But, many have hardened their hearts and have said "No" to God; they will not submit to Him. They are hell bent, literally, on earning salvation their own way instead of accepting God's free gift. The interesting thing: what we see in nature, submission or death, is the same between men and God. We either submit to Him, or we die.

Mary set the example when she said "Yes" to God. We remember her, perhaps more than any other woman in history, because of this one simple act of submission, this one simple act of unconditional love and obedience to God.
(Cliff S)

Action Point
Merry Christmas. May you submit to God this Christmas day and give your heart to Him in obedience as Mary did so many years ago.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Submission to nature is not an option. When the weather turns off bad, you will submit or die. Be prepared for what the weather is, but always plan for what it can be.
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 25 December 2009 at 23:44

 Sorry it took so long today been hunting.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 26, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Doe at Cabelas (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Isaiah 66:24
" And they shall go forth and look Upon the corpses of the men Who have transgressed against Me. For their worm does not die, And their fire is not quenched. They shall be an abhorrence to all flesh." (NKJV)


Thoughts
My youngest son shot a nice big fat doe during the youth rifle season. We did everything right. We weren't sure about the shot so we left her overnight (it was cold), and went back at sunrise the next morning. We didn't go far into the woods until we found her.

As I was cleaning his deer he pointed at something and asks, "Dad what is that?" I responded, "Oh that is the liver." He said, "No, that thing that looks like a worm."

This is where I was sickened. This perfectly healthy doe had several parasitic worms inside her abdomen. (Yuck!) I inquired if the meat was still good to eat and an official assured me it was.
(Dennis W)

Action Point
Romans 10:13 promises, "For 'whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved,' " (NKJV).

In light of this promise it is surprising that some people disregard that God will allow them to face eternal separation from Him. The people who have transgressed (sinned) against God and not sought His forgiveness will face a sickening during eternity they can't walk away from. God's judgment is final.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When a shot on a big game animal is marginal the old saying is "When in doubt, back out." Game that is not pressured will likely lay down soon after the shot. On cold nights give them all night and take up the trail in the morning. Given enough time you should be able to find the animal

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 27, 2009
Today's Photograph: Buck at Cabelas (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Isaiah 48:6-7
"You heard and saw everything that happened, so you should tell this news to others. Now I will tell you about new things, hidden things that you don't know yet. These things are happening now, not long ago; you have not heard about them before today. So you cannot say, 'We already knew about that.' " (NCV)

Thoughts
It's fast! It's Quiet! It will laser an arrow to the target! No shock! No vibration! Smooth as butter!

My new bow is in the mail. I can't wait to place my hands on it. I have heard all the good things that are said about it. I just know that this new bow is going to be the best thing I have ever shot. I wonder how it will feel. Will the grip set well in my hand? Will it do all that the company says?

The anticipation is so high; I hope I am not let down by my own idealistic dreams.
(Dennis W)

Action Point
According to Isaiah, we have heard all that God has done; and knowing what He has done should make the anticipation for what He is going to do extremely high. We know that He is Creator, Savior, and Sustainer. He is Friend, Comforter, and Redeemer. He is Protector, Supplier, and Forgiver. Yet, God is doing a new thing that we don't even have a clue about. No idealistic dreams here!

"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us." Ephesians 3:20 (NKJV).

One thing we can never say about God, "Oh, yeah, I already knew that."


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When hunting deer, it is almost guaranteed that deer will show up from the direction you least expect. Use good scent management, move very little, and continuously scan the area. Deer will show up like ghosts.
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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 28, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Ducks (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Proverbs 11:3
The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. (NKJV )

Thoughts
Boom, there's a gunshot in the distance.
"Six more minutes boys."
Boom, Boom, Bo-Boom; four more shots ring out at less than a quarter mile.
"Four more minutes boys."
Ducks are landing on our spread.
"Two more minutes boys."
Boys are gripping their shotguns waiting in anticipation.
The words that came were anti-climatic. "OK, it's time."
(Dennis W)

Action Point
What was happening was a lesson in integrity. During a youth duck hunt the young men in the blind that day could have heard the others shooting and said, "Well, if they are shooting, I guess we can start."

A statement hanging on a friend's wall says, "Wrong is still wrong, even if everyone's doing it."

If these young men are shown by us that bending the rules a little will be OK, then as they grow into men they will be tempted to bend the rules in a situation that could destroy their lives.

Where do they learn it? Yes, from us!


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
There are no gray areas in a believer's life. When you read hunting times, dates, bag limits, and size, follow them. Your youngsters, spouse, and even your friends are watching you to see your faith in action. Show integrity in all situations.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 29, 2009
Today's Photograph.... San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff, AZ (Donny N)

Bible Study Verse
Psalm 17: 4-5
I'm not trying to get my way in the world's way. I'm trying to get your way, your Word's way. I'm staying on your trail; I'm putting one foot In front of the other. I'm not giving up. (Message)

Thoughts
I can remember every hunting trip as a kid with my dad. I loved being is the middle the woods chasing deer and elk, just the two of us. I never had a clue as to where we were or how we would get back to camp, but somehow we would always end up right where we started. All I had to do was follow my dad.
(Donny N)

Action Point
I spent the beginning of my life trying to follow the world's way. Trying to "keep up with the Joneses", and never once considering what was ahead. It was at this point that I found myself lost, not knowing how to get back to where I started.

Have you ever been here? Feeling a little lost? Read this passage again out loud. Can you relate to what David is praying here? We can't give up!

The leading cause of death when someone gets lost is pride. No one wants to admit they're lost. Admit it, admit you're lost now, read David's prayer again, and get back on the trail Christ has laid for us. Get back in His way. You already have the map, He's your GPS. All you have to do is follow your Dad.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Proficiency with a map and compass is paramount. Transferring information to and from a map to a GPS receiver requires a certain amount of skill and knowledge. Having traditional map and compass skills is also important in case the GPS technology lets you down. Make sure you know how to use and follow your GPS.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 30, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Geyser (Ron H)

Bible Study Verse
John 18:10-11
Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.) Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" (NIV)

Thoughts
I love this part of the story. Peter had a sword. What's Peter doing with a sword? He was a fisherman. For one, I don't think Peter was aiming for an ear, I think he was just really bad with a sword. A fishing pole or a net wouldn't have done any good, so Peter picked up a sword. He was probably trying to cut Malchus' head off. He just missed and cut his ear off instead.

Imagine what if Peter had cut off the servant's head? Remember the rest of the story. Jesus picked up the servant's ear and put it back on his head. He healed him. Could you imagine if Peter would have cut off his head? Jesus just leans down, picks up his head and puts it back on. Bam, you're healed. That would have been awesome!
(Donny N)

Action Point
I know the head cutting off sounds a little brutal, but that's what the Bible is, harsh, brutal, and bloody.

But, it's also a love letter. Can you feel the passion pouring out of Peter as you read this story? No pause. No second thought. Just BAM! He whips out a sword and is willing to kill for his King.

This passage speaks of passion. No greater love that this that he would lay his own life down for his friend. That's what Peter was willing to do, lay his life down for his King.

How far are you willing to go for your KING?

Challenge yourself this week to search your soul. Ask yourself this question, "How far will I go for my King"? Is it in you?


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Every hunt requires a different type of rifle, load and method of take for a successful harvest. Always make sure you have selected the proper rifle, ammunition, bow, arrow, broad head, etc. You don't want to take the animal's ear off. Use the proper equipment for the safe and ethical means of take. Also double check your state or local area's rules and regulations on method of take.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen December 31, 2009
Today's Photograph....Beside Quiet Water (Ron H)

Bible Study Verse
Genesis 45:4-5
So Joseph said to his brothers, "Come near to me, please." And they came near. And he said, "I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life." (ESV)

Thoughts
I was in Los Angeles recently on business and decided in the middle of trying to catch fights and appointments that I would take a break and go for a walk. LA is well known as "the melting pot" and is filled with a diverse mix of people from all walks of life. Any given day you will probably encounter at least 20 different nationalities. What a great place to meet new people. What a great place to share, explore, step outside your world, and enter into a conversation with new cultures, new societies, and new worlds.

Set an example for what a follower of Christ looks like in a whole new world.

Did you know that there are over 6 BILLION people in the world? That's 6 billion sets of ears to hear or 6 billion souls to win. Wow, what an audience for the Message.
(Donny N)

Action Point
What do you think Joseph would have done today? What if he was in LA, New York, Phoenix, Sydney, London, or Mexican Hat? Do you think that if his brothers would have sold him or left him for dead that he would have been as forgiving today? Here's a guy who could have punished all the evil and wrong his brothers had bestowed upon him. He could have gotten them back, gotten even, and gotten his revenge. But he didn't, he looked at his BROTHERS, and embraced them, forgave them, and loved them.

How many times have we sought vengeance, revenge, or tried to get someone back for all the wrong they have done to us? What would it take for you to say, "Come near to me" not only to those whom you love and cherish, but to any person whom you may feel has wronged you? "Come near to me," embrace me as I embrace you.

Before you do that, ask yourself this question, "Whom have I left for dead, sold as a slave, punished, hurt, crushed, humiliated, or wronged?" Maybe we are the ones who need someone to say, "Come near to me." Ask God to open your heart today to all of those whom you may have hurt and seek their forgiveness. Take a moment today to ask Him to place someone on your heart this day that you can draw near to, preserve life, and follow Joseph's lead, "Come near to me".


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
For your hunting pack, keep ample supplies of rubber gloves. Not just for field dressing your animal, but they work great as a scent blocker if you need to put gas in your truck or quad or anything that you might come in contact with outside of the stand or in the field.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 1, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Hidden Fawn (Jackie M)

Bible Study Verse
John 10:27-28
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. (NIV)

Welcome to The New Year our God has so graciously given us!!! Our gratefulness will be reflected in how We Live This Year For Him!!!

Thoughts
Safe! Secure! These are important words and concepts. Even though God has designed and equipped infant wild animals with many protective instincts, they are seldom totally safe. Whitetail fawns seem especially vulnerable. The mothers' care for their young often determines their survival.

The doe that has given birth each of the last five years within the fenced grounds of Baptist Mid-Missions in Cleveland, Ohio is classic proof. She leaps the fence to give birth on the property and then for several weeks she is back and forth over the fence multiple times each day to nurse and care for her baby.

The casual observer would think the fawn had been abandoned. Not so! That doe understands her newborn is safer and more secure on that property than it would be with her outside the fence. Not until it is several weeks old and able to flee danger does she lead her treasure out the front gate to life in the wilds of the Cleveland suburbs. That mother deer stays totally focused on the safety and security of her offspring.
(Jackie M)

Action Point
God is the only one that can guarantee our safety and security. In spite of circumstances, accidents, and problems of living, we may rest in His love and promises.

Jesus promises that if we believe in Him as Savior and Lord, listen, and follow him, we are secure forever. In fact, we are held in God's eternal hands out of which no one can pluck or snatch us. What wonderful safety and ultimate security!


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
When you come across a nest or a young animal in the wild, it is normally best to leave it alone and undisturbed. There are reports the mother animals abandoning young that have been handled by humans transferring human odor to the young. If you know the young animal is truly an orphan, it is best to contact a wild life officer to determine the best course of action for the animal's well being. In many places it is illegal to take them home, adopt them, or try to raise them.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 2, 2010
Today's Photograph.... His Light Reveals Our Darkness (Jackie M)

Bible Study Verse
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (NIV)

Thoughts
The light of a cigarette lighter blared in the encroaching blackness! We were standing on a hill top watching from a three miles distance. Watch was being kept over a shallow valley that opened before us. Military units had occupied that valley. But, now they were invisible. Darkness reigned.

But, then light discipline was broken. That light was unauthorized, the result of disobedience to the orders. Someone valued a cigarette more than the security of their unit.

This was a military training exercise, and the light would make them visible to the opposing forces. In a real battle scenario, their location would have become visible and known to the enemy. In a real situation, the enemy would have poured many rounds of artillery upon them, and perhaps counter attacked.

One man's neglect or disobedience in battle can endanger many others.
(Jackie M)

Action Point
Our world needs light. Sunshine makes crops grow. Photosynthesis requires light to allow plants to combine nutrients, water, and carbon dioxide in the manufacture of sugars and starches. These products become food for all manner of living creatures.

Our good works are often pictured as light in the Bible. The beneficial acts we do bring glory to God. As we help and serve others, we make Him famous. Our good deeds reveal Him.

Our Lord Jesus is revealed as the Light of the World. His light reveals our darkness and the need we have within for Him.

Have you received him personally? Or, like the majority of people have you refused Him because your deeds are evil?

As outdoorsmen, well aware of the need for light, our testimonies are needed in the world to point others to the Light of the World, the Lord Jesus Christ.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Consider having backup sources of light with you. Many powerful and reliable lights are available today. They can become a life saver in a desperate situation.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 3, 2010
Today's Photograph.... Controlled By Bit and Bridle (Mitch K)

Bible Study Verse
Psalm 32:9
Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. (NIV)

Thoughts
Pain hurts. I think you will agree. I try to avoid it.

Sometimes hunting dogs are extremely hard headed. They want to hunt more than to obey you or to hunt with you. Frustration is defined by a bird dog running wild, charging ahead, and busting all the birds out of the field before the hunters arrive or can take a shot.

The electronic training collars provide a mild stimulus to the dog in training to correct bad behavior. When disobedience occurs, the pain of the electronic stimulation brings them under control and back to the handler.
(Jackie M)

Action Point
Sometimes God uses pain to correct our sinful behavior. Psalm 32 is King David's testimony to this fact. Our verse speaks of the bridle used on horses and mules. The pressured pain inflicted by the bit in their mouth is what brings them into line and controls them. As they instinctively move to lessen the pain, the bit and bridle brings the horse or mule to the handler. Otherwise, uncontrolled and inaccessible, they are not useful.

Not all the pain and suffering in the world is because of sin. We live in a world that is cursed by sin and bad things happen because sin and its curse reign over this world. Many times when we wander, stray, or sin, God will use pain, illness, injury, or negative circumstances to get our attention and to bring us back to Him.

When pain occurs, ask God to reveal to you if it is His corrective effort or just the natural product of a world turned upside down and in rebellion to Him.

His Word and His Spirit will guide you into all Truth. Read John 16:13. Listen to His still, small voice of correction and you will avoid the pain.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Electronic training collars are effective in controlling hard headed, stubborn dogs. Buy a quality one. Consider one that gives a warning sound before the electrical stimulation. That will often correct the offending dog that has experience with the collar.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 4, 2010
Today's Photograph . . . New Bow Hunter Window Decal

Bible Study Verse
Micah 4:2b
Many nations will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways, so that we may walk in His paths." (NIV)

2010 Sportsmen's Devotional News

We want to thank you for including Sportsmen's Devotional.com (SD) in your daily life. 2009 was a challenging year for all. Here at SD it has been exciting with our increasing worldwide following and growth. We are committed through God's guidance to continue to share His truth this year. All of us at SD are absolutely amazed and humbled at how God has taken us to so many parts of the world, even to places we have never heard of. We want to thank sportsmen and sportswomen everywhere, especially those of you serving in the military. We appreciate your comments as you digest the daily SD's and share our message with others.

Every year in this message, we ask that you give us grace ahead of time should you find editorial errors. Most of our writers are sportsmen, not English experts. We write from our hearts with the prayer that it will deepen and encourage your personal walk with Christ. We work diligently to provide you with the truths that He is teaching us through the Holy Spirit. We also ask that you act as all men should--as the Bereans of the past--study what we say to ensure that it is Biblically correct.

Today's photo is the new Bow Hunter's window decal. We receive emails from our members telling us how they have met other members around the country, because they were wearing a SD hat or saw a SD window decal. New relationships have been forged.

SD is an all volunteer ministry which means all time, monies, and donations support SD expenses. Visit our website store and support SD through your purchases.

Prayer...
We are sincere about praying for your needs. On the SD web site under the Contact Us page, you will find the prayer request form. All prayer requests are confidential. We also ask you to pray for us daily. Prayer is one of our strongest weapons.

Wild Game Dinners & Event Support...
We have been so honored to be included as a part of your Wild Game Dinners. Many of you are aware, ten of our writers are Wild Game Dinner speakers. Let us know when you need any SD cards or banners sent to you for your 2010 events. To submit your request, visit the Contact Us page on the SD website. We have found that when SD cards are given to attendees, we pick up new readers. What is most encouraging are the emails we get later from these men stating how they are growing in Christ as they use our devotional as a part of their time spent with God. You can print SD cards, the 5x7 brochure, and the table top display sheet from our store's Download Page.

Lastly, we want to say thank you for your encouraging emails and letters. The SD staff are dedicated volunteers and your encouragement goes a long way.

God Bless you as you choose to Walk in His Paths each day.
Sportsmen's Devotional Team


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Print out a few dozen Sportsmen's Devotional cards from our website Download Page to leave at your local sporting goods stores and other locations. Also, buy a SD logoed item as a gift for someone or yourself.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 5, 2009
Today's Photograph.... Do you know what you're looking for? Don't let'em dry out! (Janet B)

Bible Study Verse
Luke 5: 8-11
When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. (NIV)

Thoughts
At that moment I quickly realized I had no idea what these critters looked like without being battered and deep fried.

The directive had gone down to me and a couple of the other boys from church to haul in the net and dump everything in the tray then start sortin'em. "Get the shrimp first then worry about everything else. Don't let'em dry out." As I quickly surveyed what the other guys were pulling out I realized that the grey, spindly-legged critters were what we were after. Sure looked different with all the other parts attached.

After we had finished the first tray and lowered the net for another pass, I had occasion to survey everything else we'd caught. Blue crabs, puffer fish, squid, turtles and all assortments of other fish were represented; creatures I'd only ever seen in books or heard spoken of by others who had fished the Gulf waters. Some we kept. Most got thrown back. .
(Jay C)

Action Point
Perhaps, it was the "unexpected" factor that overwhelmed Peter the most. Certainly, it had been the awesomeness of the event. Seeing recently barren waters suddenly produce enough fish to nearly sink two commercial fishing boats would be enough to both simultaneously excite and overwhelm anyone. But, how reassuring it was for these guys to hear Jesus tell them in effect: "You did good and I need you for the fishing I've got planned. Follow Me."

Their response to this affirming encouragement more than sums up both their character and commitment. Today we might refer to this characteristic as coachable or trainable. In any event, did you notice how they reacted to their prescribed change in vocation? No questions. No "what abouts" or "have- you-considereds." They simply left their possessions, equipment, livelihoods, jobs, incomes, career-plans, pensions, and families right there on the beach. Then they followed Jesus.

It's an amazing thing to me how in such a short and immediate period of time, Peter and company went from responding to "fish over there" to "follow me wherever". No questions. No hesitation.

God has called each of us to be fishers of men. He has provided us with the "nets" of our friends, life experiences, jobs, neighborhoods, sportsmen's clubs, church outreaches, and school functions. However, He wants all the fish in our nets, not just the shrimp, the pretty ones, the record setters, or the rare and uncommon ones. He wants them all. He needs us to regularly gather in our nets, not worry about the sorting, and focus on the saving. We need to be concentrating on how to lead them to the Master Fisher.

"Do you know what you're looking for? Don't let'em dry out."


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Cast nets from 8 - 12' in diameter are particularly useful when preparing for a day offshore as they can be used to catch shad and shrimp which are favorite bait for many of the Gulf water game fish. While it takes some time beforehand to learn how to cast them cleanly, the effort invested pays for itself in free bait.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 6, 2010
Today's Photograph.... Waterhole Reflection (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. (NIV)


Thoughts
It seems that those who share this love for the outdoors have an incredible bond. When someone begins to share with me about his or her last hunting trip or camping excursion, we have this immediate relationship through the outdoors.

Some of these are men that very may put me in the ground one day. They may share our experiences together on a hunt, a bay fishing trip, or trying to trick an ole Tom within shotgun range at my own funeral one day!

We know that Jesus developed these deeper relationships with not only His disciples, but with those he came into contact with at the market, at the drinking well, alongside the road, and even at "sinners" homes.

Are you laying down your life for your friends? (Glen D)

Action Point
What do you accomplish at camp? Are you intentional about your faith in Christ at camp or do you leave it at the church house?

Next time you find yourself sitting around the campfire or playing cards on your next outing, ask those around you for some prayer requests. Then be bold, stop, and take the time to pray for those with you and what they had the courage to share. Prayer is one of our strongest weapons.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Keep bottled water in your vehicle! You never know when you may need it if you break down, overheat, or someone just gets thirsty.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 7, 2010
Today's Photograph: . . .Whitetail Country (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
I Thessalonians 5:16-18
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Thoughts
These verses in I Thessalonians have been on my mind. The word that kept jumping off the page was ALL. What a challenge to give thanks in ALL circumstances--when we are with family we do not want to be around, or if we just left our Paw Paw's funeral. It can be understandably tough this time of the year to have a thankful attitude, considering what many folks are going through with layoffs, cuts in pay, and increasing costs of goods and services that tighten the monthly outflow.

This year we ALL need to take some time out and consider how blessed we are and what a mighty God we serve!
(Glen D)

Action Point
Let's get paper and pencil out, take time to write ALL the things for which we are thankful this season, and then, share them with family and friends in the coming days.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Make sure to always check your gun once you're in the blind to see if the round is in the chamber and you are on safety. This past week, I put a fella in the blind; and as he was about to pull off on a management deer, all he heard was click and watched white tails disappear into the woods.
.

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A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen January 8, 2010
Today's Photograph.... Canadian Geese (MQ)

Bible Study Verse
Proverbs 16:16
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver! (NIV)

Thoughts
This past weekend after listening to a CD on goose calling, I finally got the tone I was looking for. I have been practicing a lot as of late and enjoying it. I am getting better and gaining wisdom. When geese respond to my call, to me, it is better than gold. It's an adrenalin rush and the understanding of what I am doing is better than silver. It's fun!
(Jim C)

Action Point
Learning to call waterfowl is all part of the experience for me. Wisdom is better than gold. Gold is only saved or spent. Wisdom is gained and shared.

Spend time with God and then wisely share what He is teaching you. It's one of the greatest gifts you can give.


Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Learning to blow a short reed goose call takes a lot of time and patience. It cannot be rushed and must be practiced often to be consistently successful. But, it's worth it!

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