Weekly Devotion August 21, 2023

 

This Devotion was written by Sportsmen Devotional and posted with permission

Bible Study Verse: Ezra 7:10 

For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel. (NIV©) 

Thoughts: Every State in the United States has a specific agency that is responsible for the management of wildlife in that State. There are wildlife management agencies at the Federal level as well. All of these agencies publish wildlife management regulations that are to be followed by hunters and fishermen in order to protect and conserve the wildlife we so love. As hunters and fishermen, it is our responsibility to read and be familiar with these regulations. But, knowing the regulations isn’t enough, it is important that we obey and follow these regulations. As parents and mentors, it is important that we teach these regulations to our youngsters and new hunters and, by our behavior, demonstrate to others that it is important for the future of wildlife that we follow the rules! 

Action Point: God gave us the “rulebook” for behavior, the Bible. Yes, there are a myriad of laws found in the Old Testament, but fast forward. Jesus summed up the entire Old Testament Law in a few words, they are found in Luke 10:27 and are as follows: “He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”” (NIV©). As with wildlife laws, it isn’t enough to just know what Jesus taught, we must live by what He said and by what He did when He demonstrated His love for the Father and His neighbors! It is important that we teach these words and Jesus’ ways to our children and new believers by sharing what Jesus taught and by living by His “rules” in our own lives. 

Sportsmen’s Tip of the Day: Wildlife regulations are there to protect the future of our wildlife by scientific management of the animal populations. Know the rules. Follow the rules. Teach your kids the rules.