Weekly Devotion December 11, 2023

This Devotion was written by Sportsmen Devotional and posted with permission

Bible Study Verse: Psalm 90:12 

"So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom." 

Thoughts: This year has proven to be a year of change for me. Every aspect of my life and ministry seems to have faced changes to some degree. Some of those changes have been very difficult and some very enjoyable. For example, a few weeks ago I fell walking out of the woods in the dark after an evening bow hunt. I have fallen hundreds of times in the woods over the years, but this time was different. Every time before, I jumped right back up, dusted off, and kept going. This time my mind said, "Get up!" but my body said, "Hold on a minute!" It took me a second to gather my composer to stand again. This was a great reminder and revelation that I am getting old. Another change that happened recently that reminded me of the same truth was sending my son off to college. This is a change for our family that is both very good and difficult. However, he was able to come home a week ago for fall break. Of course, I was determined to put him on a buck he could harvest but we only had three nights to get it done. Thankfully he was successful. 

Action Point: Knowing that my days were numbered, I had to be laser-focused on the preparation and scouting needed to put my son on a deer. The short amount of time to harvest a deer increased my intensity and determination. We are watching a lot of difficult things going on in the world that should only make us realize that the Lord's return is getting closer. Our days are numbered and there is a harvest to be taken. Let the difficulties around you spur you on and build a desire in you to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others while you still can. Don't let the difficulties discourage you, but rather embolden you with the truth of Jesus! 

Sportsman’s Tip of the Day: To increase your odds of being successful on an early-season bow hunt, find the bedding area for your deer. Getting in close to these areas will require that you are laser-focused on scent, wind direction, and timing. Prepare for a long sit and be patient for the right opportunity.