Weekly Devotion August 17 2026

This Devotion was written by Sportsmen Devotional and posted with permission

Bible Study Verse: Ephesians 4:17-24

So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in Him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. NIV)

Thoughts: As I read this Scripture, I am reminded of the work of a taxidermist. When we first come to Christ, the Bible tells us we are “born again” (John 3). We must die to our old ways—ways ruled by the flesh rather than by the Spirit of God—and be reborn in the image of Christ. When we have a trophy mounted, the taxidermist brings that creature “back to life.” Many of us have seen older mounts, and over time, even the finest trophies can become worn and faded. They need to be “touched up.” Using his skills and tools, the taxidermist carefully restores and refreshes the trophy.

Action Point: In our walk with Christ, we too can become worn and in need of a “touch up” from God. He gently takes us into His arms and restores us. This happens daily as we read His Word and spend time talking with Him.

If you need a “touch up” from the Master Taxidermist today, simply call out to Him. He is always listening and always willing—ready to restore us.

Sportsmen’s Tip of the Day: If you plan on having a trophy mounted, remember this: do everything you can to keep the hide clean and presentable so your taxidermist can do his best work