Weekly Devotion January 15, 2024

This Devotion was written by Sportsmen Devotional and posted with permission

Bible Study Verse: Matthew 5:13-16 13 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. NIV. 

Thoughts: Campfire cooking—there’s nothing like partaking in freshly harvested game. Maybe it's fresh-caught trout at a campfire next to a favorite lake or river. It could be elk or venison tenderloin at a backcountry campsite. Perhaps your flavor may be turkey breast in the spring, gator in late summer, or pheasant in the fall. Whatever game you pursue, once the day fades into dusk, nothing beats an outdoor meal over an open fire. A little salt and a little light are all you need to make it happen. A little bit of light and you will see what you’re doing, and a measure of salt (or seasoning of choice) will give an outdoorsman the open flame savory meal that cannot be matched indoors. 

Action Point: Christians are called to be the salt and light in the world. What does this mean? Wherever you go each day, let others see Christ reflected in you—in words and actions. Be faithful to this. You will get different reactions from people. Light to some is good as it can take away some darkness, and they can see the path they should travel; but to others that love darkness, it can be blinding. Salt will add flavor, and your effective witness of Jesus to others can be welcoming and palatable, but for others, if you pour salt into a wound, it will burn. As you go through life, be prepared for many different responses from others—some will be good, some not-so-good, and many will not react. But be not discouraged—keep it up! 

Sportsman’s Tip of the Day: Pack well for outdoor and campfire cooking. Here is a short list of things to remember: Pan or preferably a cast iron skillet Fire starter or matches Cooking fuel Cooking oil or real butter Pot holder or gloves Salt (seasoning) and a light source