Edition 37e

THE CHRISTIAN

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Team Adventures for Your Ultimate Quest

Edition 37e

CHARLIE DANIELS

COUNTRY MUSIC GIANT SHAKES THE FOUNDATIONS Guaranteeing the Future

by Developing Generations - PAGE 16 Check Out Our Quick Links - PAGE 32 1

TABLE OF

The Christian Sportsman

CONTENTS

Mission: The Christian Sportsman magazine encourages and empowers sportsmen to discover and develop a deep passion for Jesus Christ in the context of outdoor adventure.

Letter from the Publisher Richard Jordan Page 4 Country Music Giant Shakes the Foundations Charlie Daniels Page 8 Guaranteeing the Future By Developing Generations Jim Young Page 16 Pheasant Hunting and Teamwork Bob Pearle Page 20 Record Grizzly Ignites Questions About Trophy Categories Page 25 Conflict Resolution - Equipping Sportsmen With Truth for Today June Hunt Page 28

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CSF CONNECT

Staff Publisher — Richard Jordan Managing Editor — Jim Smith Editor — Amber Smith Marketing Director — Chris Marley IT Director — Darin Sakas Data Management — Terry Sams Business Address: P.O. Box 566547, Atlanta, GA 31156 telephone 770.335.1814 Speculative manuscripts and queries may also be sent via e-mail to: rjordan@thechristiansportsman.com.

TCS magazine is not responsible for unsolicited materials that are lost, stolen or damaged.

International Advisory Board Pastor Johnny Hunt Dr. Bob Reccord Dr. John Morgan Dr. Paige Patterson Evg. James Robison Team Advenures Pro Staff Alaska Subsistence - Brian Heaphy Alaska Adventure - Dave Lemaire Bass Fishing - Hank Parker Big Game Hunting - Bob Reccord Bow Hunting - Larry Baker Dog Obedience - Hank Hough Duck Hunting - Darin Sakas Family Traditions - Candise Farmer Father & Son - Paige Patterson Fly Fishing - Jim Young Leadership Training — Bruce Witt Men’s Ministry - Edgar Pierce Michigan Whitetails - Jerry Lambert Montana Outfitting — Bruce Smetana National Spokesman — Steve Bartkowski Outdoor Truths - Gary Miller Pheasant Hunting - Bob Pearle Stories from the Field - Jamie Murphy Veterinarian Care - Justin Payne Whitetail Trophy Hunting — Skipper Bettis The Christian Sportsman magazine endorses the Christian Sportsmen’s Foundation, a tax-exempt charitable corporation under IRS Code 501(c)3. The Christian Sportsmen’s Foundation promotes the Christian message to the outdoors community by securing and maintaining land and facilities made available to assist ministries in effective outreach.

Copyright 2014 by The Christian Sportsman, Inc. All rights reserved. The use of whole or part of any material in this magazine without advance written permission is prohibited. TCS magazine is published quarterly by The Christian Sportsman, Inc., P.O. Box 566547, Atlanta, GA 31156; telephone 770.335.1814.

Periodical postage paid at Atlanta, GA and additional mailing offices.

The staff and management of TCS and the Christian Sportsmen’s Foundation assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, representations, or any other content or information presented in the magazine, whether provided by advertisers, magazine staff or contributing consultants. Except as expressly noted, neither TCS, Inc., nor the Christian Sportsmen’s Foundation endorses any product advertised or described in the magazine. The views expressed in the magazine are those of the individual writers, and are not necessarily the views of the staff or management of TCS magazine, TCS, Inc., or the Christian Sportsmen’s Foundation.

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

AMERICA’S MILLENNIAL CULTURE

WITHIN REACH

The average age of sportsmen in America is just over forty-one years of age.

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Times are changing in America’s culture, especially for the generation born after 1980 and before 1994, known as the “Millennials”. It seems that we live in a culture of extremes where segmentation and division is the norm, even polarizing age groups through indifference and self-absorption. Most often “Twenty-Somethings” seldom develop an interest in pursuing outdoors adventure while those over forty may become inordinately passionate about anything outdoors. Why not look for an opportune occasion to bridge the divide as part of your life’s mission!

The average age of sportsmen in America according to statistics produced by the National Shooting Shots Foundation is just over forty-one years of age, but many outdoorsmen are much older. Author Bob Buford in his classic book, “Half-Time” states that most men desire to pursue a lifestyle that moves from success to significance, usually around the age of forty. Otherwise, we may fall prey to the malaise of a “Mid-Life Crisis” where we worship our work, work at our play and play at our worship!

Many of us from the babyboomer generation who enjoy hunting and fishing fit into the age category over forty and have found great joy and fulfillment in seeking out times of solace and solitude while in the classroom of God’s creation. What a great opportunity to seek significance by introducing others to the joys of outdoors adventure.

In a recent report following extensive research by the George Barna Institute it was discovered that authentic lifelong friendships and the opportunity to be mentored by a mature follower of Christ are probably the two most prominent reasons that “Twenty-Somethings” stay connected to a local church and desire to know God in an authentic way. Tragically, the research shows that 2 1/2 to 3 million Millennials are leaving the church annually, most never to return. Click for the report.

A Christian sportsman with minimal skills and limited logistical knowledge can ignite a fire of passion in the heart of a newcomer to explore outdoors adventure very simply by extending an invitation to a hunter education class then taking his protégé on a few outings to fish or hunt. You might even invite a couple of beginner entry level sportsmen to join you thereby investing your time wisely in bringing two potential hunting buddies together for life.

But the greatest potential impact you might have on the next

generation is in letting them know the true passions of your own heart ... building true friendships while sharing the gospel, even using words, if necessary!

Thank you for checking out the stories found inside of The Christian Sportsman each month as our Contributing Writers desire to encourage, equip and empower our readers to discover then develop a deep passion for Jesus Christ through each season of life. We want to grow along with you and need your participation with new ideas, constructive criticism, writing skills and use of our Magazine Ministry to expand the readership as you build friendships with those in need of a cool drink of living water! Please let us hear from you with your comments, insights or suggestions as you are inspired to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ Jesus!

Richard Jordan

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“The perfect compliment for your outdoor adventure” Outdoorsmen around the world will tell you there’s more to the hunt than just the prize. Time away in the beauty of God’s creation provides an opportunity to reflect on God’s Word by the campfire or get real with Him in prayer as you are exploring new adventures through the wilderness.

The Mossy Oak Trail Guide is the perfect complement to pack with you other essential gear. Inside you’ll find: • True stories of hunting and survival • Survival tips for a variety of conditions • Practical pointers for hunting, tracking and dressing game • Extended passages of scripture from “The Message” translation • Solid, interactive devotionals that apply to your life right now Not only will this valuable resource prove helpful in a variety of outdoor scenarios but it will also be there to fuel your devotions when you’re ready to encounter God in the backcountry.

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Country Music Giant Shakes the Foundations Charlie Daniels finds the powerful lure of fame pales in comparison to the power of God

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It seems it’s hard for some people to accept the fact that there is an evil in this world that goes far beyond criminal behavior, or just plain meanness, an evil so demented and so unrepentant that it knows no depths and no bounds.

Charlie Daniels - August 14, 2014 The rumbling really got started at four in the morning. The walls shook, the floor bounced, and the furniture danced.

For country music legend Charlie Daniels, it might have been just another day at the office. But even though he has performed with the likes of Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, and a couple of the Beatles, he was not the one changing the landscape this time.

This shaking was caused by the Rock that doesn’t roll.

The fact is, earthquakes don’t hit Middle Tennessee very often, but the experience won’t be forgotten any time soon.

“The quake lasted only a few seconds,” said Charlie on his website, “but it felt like a giant had grabbed the side of the house and shook it violently....

Those few seconds were enough to convince me that earthquakes are one of the most powerful forces in existence.... A little reminder of the power of God once in a while really gets our attention.”

Yes, God truly demonstrated His power that beautiful spring morning, but the shaking

hasn’t stopped in Charlie’s life yet. What’s more, God seems to be be using him to shake a lot of other people up, too. You might even say God is shakin’ the foundations of the entertainment industry with the words and music He’s given this hillbilly (a label he wears proudly) from Tennessee.

Charlie doesn’t believe in hiding who he is.

His website (www.charliedaniels.com) has a soapbox section he writes just to show you who this giant of a man is. If you have any doubts about his faith, he writes:

“Oh, and by the way, I do have a bass rig.”

Well, the bass rig may seem a bit of an afterthought, as it should be, but it gives an indication of how he applies his faith to life.

And that’s not the end of it, either. In fact, his views seem to cause earthquakes wherever he turns up these days. He has openly called Sean Penn a traitor for visiting Saddam Hussein prior to Operation Iraqi Freedom, and said Barbra Streisand’s rantings about former President Bush are about as sensible “as Michael Jackson hanging a baby over a railing.”

“I believe in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. I believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, not a way, a truth and a life.

I believe that no man can come to the Father except through the Son.

And heaven forbid an entertainment superstar support the NRA and “own more guns than most people” which he takes “great delight in shooting.”

“Why do I believe that?

Because that’s what the Bible says, which by the way, I believe every word of.

These are tough words from an avowed right-wing Christian, but they reveal a strong character, not a hateful one. His 40+ years with wife Hazel and his deep love for his children are another important measure of the man.

“I believe in school vouchers and that true marriage exists only between a man and a woman.

Son of a Conservationist

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Family has always been a big priority in Charlie’s life, largely because of his father. He grew up in the war-torn 1940s hunting with his father in North Carolina, and stamped his memory of those times into the heart of every country music fan with the song “The Legend of Wooley Swamp,” a story taken from one of his many hunting trips with his father.

Carlton Daniels, Charlie’s dad, 10

was a lumberjack whose work took him all over the South.

As a result, Charlie moved around a lot growing up. But in spite of a busy schedule, his dad passed on a strong faith in God and a true Christian work ethic that follows him to this day. “He was an honest, self-reliant man who loved music and singing, joking and laughing, good people and good food and his work.

He could look at a tree and tell you within a fraction how

many board feet of lumber it would make after it was cut down,” Charlie reflected.

Then there’s hunting and fishing, both a little ways down the priority list, but on the list nonetheless. Charlie deeply loves the outdoors and has little tolerance for most environmentalists.

As he told the Christian Sportsman, “There’s a lot of folks running around today calling themselves

The years of playing on the road and spending time with people in show business dragged Charlie away from the Lord.

environmentalist who know about as much about the environment as a hog knows about an airplane. They’re just spouting off what other people say. Since my daddy was in the timber business, he was a conservationist. Timber is a renewable resource and he treated it as such. If you want to find a true environmentalist, go find a hunter or a fisherman or somebody who loves the woods and is in the woods all the time, like my daddy was. It’s the people who love the woods that take care of them.

“I think we should all be concerned with passing on an attitude of conservation toward the sports we love and the outdoors we love and really taking care of them, not just giving them lip service like so many do.”

Recently, the Charlie Daniels Band helped Buckmasters with its much acclaimed Expo.

Charlie signed on to “celebrate our love of hunting and the close bonds it creates between our families and friends. The Buckmasters Expo is special.

It says to the world: ‘We’re hunters and we’re proud of what we stand for.’ I like that.

As hunters, we have so much to be proud of and so much

to be thankful for. I applaud Buckmasters for standing up for hunting.”

Standing Up for God’s Principles Charlie’s love for the outdoors makes him a strong believer in the ethical treatment of animals, but not the way some folks define it. He calls the ideas of groups such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) ridiculous. “I would like to see PETA go to the Arctic and tell the Eskimos that they can’t eat seals, whales, fish and polar bears. I seriously doubt if they’d listen, since they’d starve to death. That’s about all they have to eat up there....

beings. How about the ethical treatment of unborn babies?”

Charlie’s always quick to tell anybody who is willing to listen how much he hates abortion, especially the jetsetters of Hollywood. Of course, few of them listen, but Charlie keeps preaching.

“God gave man authority over this planet, every animal, every fish and every plant, and I claim the right that He gave me....

And he rarely fails to tell folks how much he loves God and country.

“I treat my animals well,” he continues. “I feed them and water them and if they are sick I have a vet come and look at them. And I also know that there are people who mistreat animals and I deplore the practice, but I’m much more concerned about the ethical treatment of human

While Charlie Daniels isn’t afraid to speak his mind and tell people what they need to hear, he’s very understanding toward individuals who have lost their way. After all, money and fame have taken their toll on many performers through the years, and Charlie’s no different. He lost his way early

Fame Carries a Large Burden

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Daniels was born October 28, 1936, in Wilmington, North Carolina, and raised on a musical diet that included Pentecostal gospel, local bluegrass bands and the rhythm & blues and country music. He grew up in the small town of Gulf located in Chatham County, North Carolina. Daniels enjoys hunting, fishing, skydiving, and other outdoor activities. He is a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA). He married his wife, Hazel, in 1963.

Together, they have one son, Charlie Daniels, Jr.

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on in his music career, even though he was raised in a Christian home.

The years of playing on the road and spending time with people in show business dragged Charlie away from the Lord. God didn’t let go of Charlie, though, as He slowly

turned Charlie’s wilderness experience around. “I just got way away from the Lord and from the Bible for a while. I didn’t have a ‘Damascus Road’ experience or anything. It was just a gradual coming back.”

Today, though, Charlie has high regard for the Word of

God. “To me, every word in that Bible is true and will always be true. Many people tell me the story of Noah or Jonah was just symbolism. No, it wasn’t symbolism – those things really happened. I think when we get away from interpreting the Bible literally, that’s when we get in trouble.

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There’s way too much liberal theology in the world today.

“People say we need to twist the Word of God around today so it’s more up to date and applies to this contemporary world just so they can live the way they want to live.

We’re not supposed to twist the Word of God around today. That’s not the way it works.

We’re supposed to twist the world and our lives around the Word of God. That’s the way it works.”

It’s hard to imagine the big, burly Charlie Daniels submitting to anyone or anything, but he makes it clear that he’s not as big as the God he serves. His father built into him a confidence that’s allowed him to take on the biggest heavy-hitters of Hollywood without a hint of fear. Fortunately, Carlton didn’t instill self-confidence. He taught Charlie to take confidence in the one living God, the Father of Jesus Christ, who empowers His children to live for Him. Yes, it’s true, “A little reminder of the power of God once in a while really gets our attention.” There’s reason to give thanks to God for the power He’s demonstrating in the life of Charlie Daniels today. That power is definitely getting the attention of the supposed “untouchables” in Tinsel Town and it’s shaking their foundations more than any California earthquake ever could. And, just as importantly, the power of God is touching the lives of many red-blooded, patriotic Americans through Charlie’s words and music.

If your foundations are shaking, it might be an earthquake or it could be the fearless words of country music’s ambassador of goodwill.

Either way, it’s God power that’s causing all the rumblin’.

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Is Your Name in God’s Record Book of Life?

“I tell you the truth, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again.” (John 3:3) Did you know that you can have your name permanently recorded in God’s book of life today?

HERE’S HOW: A) Admit that you need him - Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 6:23a: “For the wages of sin is death...”, B) Believe that Jesus died to save you - Romans 6:23b “...but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

C) Confess Jesus as your Savior and Lord by turning from your sin and calling on his name - Romans 10:9-10: “That if you confess with your mouth ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:13: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Acts 3:19: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out...”

Our response is to receive Jesus Christ.

Does this prayer say what you want to say to God? Dear God, I believe that your son died for my sins and ask your forgiveness. I receive Jesus Christ now as my personal Savior and invite him to be the Lord of my life from this day forward. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Please contact us about your eternal decision: csf@christiansportsman.com CSF, P.O. Box 566547, Atlanta, GA 31156

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Guaranteeing the Future by Developing Generations

By Jim Young

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And all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years: and he died. And Seth lived an hundred and five years, and begat Enos: And Seth lived after he begat Enos eight hundred and seven years, and begat sons and daughters (Genesis 5:5-7 KJV).

Not the most inspiring stuff in Scripture, but the Old Testament is full of it. And then, right up front in the New Testament, Matthew details generation after generation from David to Jesus.

Most of us just skip over these details. In today’s sound-bite, Amazon-speed world, we seldom take time to think beyond the short-term. Thinking in terms of “generations”—when we’re uncertain about next week—seems foolish. But the future of conservation, our hunting heritage, and the advancement of Gods kingdom, depend upon our adopting a generational view.

DEFEND BREEDING HABITAT

Dust Bowl of the 1930s, conservationists have recognized the critical nature of breeding habitat.

Too many sportsmen take a short-term view. “Just increase stocking and raise the limits,” they say.

But repeated stocking doesn’t guarantee future populations sufficient to allow hunting. If we become dependent upon continuous stocking, the end of harvestable populations of wildlife is only as far away as the next round of government budget cuts.

Opportunities like preserve hunting and “put and take” streams fill an important niche in sporting

opportunities today. But they do not ensure the future of game populations or public hunting and angling.

In order to secure the future of our fish and game, we must ensure sufficient habitat to support generations through natural reproduction at levels high enough to permit hunting and fishing. But game numbers alone won’t guarantee the future of our outdoor heritage.

We also need to increase the number of hunters and anglers.

DEVELOP THE NEXT GENERATION OF OUTDOORSMEN Trends in our society are producing fewer and fewer outdoorsmen. The high number of fatherless households, lack of access to public hunting and fishing opportunities, a pace of life that causes many to give up their outdoor pursuits, and so forth, have reduced the number of young people being introduced to hunting and angling. Even for those who may be introduced to outdoor pursuits and enjoy them, the lack of access and other challenges often reduce participation.

As sportsmen, we can’t leave the future of consumptive use to those who manage our fish and wildlife resources.

Increasingly, these groups are influenced by preservationists who reject the North American model of game management

and would prefer wildlife be set aside and merely preserved instead of managed.

Just as future generations of fish and wildlife depend on the creation of healthy environments for reproduction, the future of hunters and anglers depends upon creating an environment where more hunters and anglers can be birthed. Can you point to a handful of people who hunt or fish (or at least support hunting and fishing) because of your influence?

Remember, presenting a desirable, positive example for those who don’t yet hunt or fish is critical to maintaining a public that is supportive of hunting and fishing, especially on public lands.

DECIDE TO ACT As Christian sportsmen, we must adopt a long-range, even eternal view of our actions. Are we supporting conservation in a way that ensures future generations of wildlife?

Are we encouraging and helping others find their love for hunting and angling in a way that will guarantee future generations of hunters and anglers?

Will there be an eternal series of generations of believers whose spiritual roots find themselves in your actions?

While the genealogies of Scripture aren’t riveting reading, they’re extremely important to the history of Israel. And

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generations are just as important for us. I pray that we may have genealogies of our own one day, that we’ll be able to trace generations of devoted, God-honoring outdoorsmen because of the actions we take today.

DISCIPLE OTHER CHRIST FOLLOWERS

HOW TO ENSURE REPRODUCTION Are you impacting future generations of fish and wildlife? Of sportsmen and sportswomen? Of fruitful believers? Here are a few simple ways to leave a legacy.

• Whatever your hunting or angling passion, support quality conservation organizations that focus on long-term habitat protection and improvement.

Just as we need to intentionally preserve wildlife habitat and purposefully encourage the next generation of sportsmen and women, we also need to be intentional in developing generations of Christ followers.

Sadly, Christians too often ignore the need for discipleship, or delegate it to pastors and other Christian professionals.

Paul paints a very clear picture of generational discipleship in 2 Timothy 2:2: 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others (NIV).

Paul, in this brief statement, reminds Timothy he has a great opportunity to impact multiple generations, by taking seriously his role of discipling those God has placed in his life and ministry.

How are you impacting the kingdom outside of your family? Serving other

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believers is good, but Scripture tells us that God intends that the gospel be spread into every corner of the earth. And his plan is that each of us, like Timothy, will pass on our faith to others. But not only pass it on! Rather that we pass it on in a way that equips others to pass it on. To create the next generation of believers who create future generations.

Studies have shown that the presence of at least one Christian adult other than a parent is one of the best predictors of a young person coming to and continuing to walk in faith. Will there be those believers, young and old, who can look back to you as one who influenced them to believe or grow in their faith?

• Support reasonable government regulations that encourage habitat protection while honoring the rights of private landowners.

Small changes in federal or state legislation can impact more habitat in one year than most conservation organizations can impact in a decade.

• Support your state fish and game organization in programs that introduce youth and adults to hunting and angling. These organizations are much more than just the enforcers of game and fish regulations.

• Seek opportunities to be discipled by those who went before you.

While our culture may worship youth, God gives wisdom to those who walk closely with him for many years. Seek the opportunity to receive the benefits of their learning and experience.

• Ask God to give you just one younger man or women you can pour your experience into. And don’t compartmentalize! Teaching a young man or woman to hunt or fish is a great way to be salt and light in their lives. Remember, Jesus revealed himself to Peter in a fishing boat and taught his disciples during a shore lunch.

You can, too.

PHEASANT HUNTING AND TEAMWORK

by Bob Pearle

Can you believe it! It’s that time of the year that hunters have prepared for and dreamed about all year long. The weather is transitioning from the abusive heat of summer to cooler, more pleasant days to be outdoors, and the leaves

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of the trees are changing from their shades of green to the vibrant and majestic color palate of red, yellow, and orange.

Fall has arrived and with it the adventure and challenge of another hunting season. For upland bird hunters and all

wing-shooters, it’s a time to test your shootings skills in the field once again.

As a Christian sportsman the fall hunting season brings with it wonderful opportunities to enjoy time with men of like faith in God’s great outdoors.

As a Christian sportsman the fall hunting season brings with it wonderful opportunities to enjoy time with men of like faith in God’s great outdoors.

I have been privileged over the years during hunting season to meet other Christian sportsmen and interact with them as we share the good work of God in our lives. God’s great outdoor classroom is a beautiful setting to witness His handiwork and also learn a valuable life lesson like teamwork. Hunting wild pheasants in the Midwest is a classic example.

Our destination is the heart of pheasant country, South Dakota. The plan is to fly into Rapid City and rendezvous with our hunting buddies and head out the next morning to Harrold, just east of the capitol city, Pierre.

As we entered our first field, slowing walking down the row

about ten yards apart from each other, a cacophony of shouts of rooster, rooster erupted. A moment later the blasts of shotguns unleashed their lethal power on each colorful bird. The blockers on each side of the field were part of our well organized plan to prevent the wild pheasants from escaping outside our shooting zone.

Everyone worked together like a unified whole to mark the downed birds so all could be retrieved and bagged.

Wow! What a rush! In those few moments, the excitement of the rising pheasants, the shouts of rooster along with the firing of the shotgun and the lingering smell of gunpowder make the experience so amazing. Added

to the thrill is to witness the exhilaration of the trusted hunting dog to mark the bird and move in rapid fashion to fetch his prize and place it, with wagging tail, in the hand of his handler.

Teamwork is essential for a successful hunt. Walkers slowly move down the field driving the birds forward. Blockers are positioned on either side of the field in a “v” shape moving ahead of the walkers and also stationed at the end of the field at the ready for any flushing pheasant. As we approached our down field destination, each hunter on our team was very cautious to make sure that the birds were well into the blue sky above our heads before firing so as not to endanger other

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hunters. Safety is the watchword. He is always cognizant of other hunters and conscious safety measures, taking only clean shots to humanely dispatch his target.

One such successful stalk follows this pattern on an approximate ten to fifteen acre field:

As the Pushers move forward working the dogs back and forth the pheasants either fly outside the encircled field to have their feathers dusted or else run along the ground toward the Blockers.

The hunt for birds in each of the fields requires precise timing and well planned coordination among the shooters.

The purpose of our trip was not simply to hunt this majestic bird, which is always enjoyable, but to study the Bible together and encourage our brothers in Christ. It is in reality, a men’s retreat with some exciting pheasant hunting as well. This retreat/hunt was birthed several years ago in the heart of Bob Fischer, a Rapid City businessman and committed Christian. Bob would secure the places to hunt, set the dates and invite others to join him, limiting the hunting party to twenty. Men would come

from all across America. My group was coming from Fort Worth, Texas where I serve as Pastor of the Birchman Baptist Church.

This annual retreat/pheasant hunt is generally held in mid-November and is a Wednesday through Sunday event. Travel days to and from Rapid City are Wednesday and Sunday with three days of hunting in between. Harvesting our daily limit of pheasant, though never guaranteed, was a high probability and naturally depended upon the shooters accuracy.

Much of our hunting success was due to the way the land owner cultivated the bird’s habitat and refused to overhunt areas. This year, as well as past ones, we hunted with Rick Bauer of Bauer Hunting.

He is a fine Christian gentleman and has consistently offered some of the best

pheasant hunting you will find in South Dakota. I have hunted pheasant several places but I always go back to Bauer.

There is a group of avid sportsmen from our Men’s Ministry, known as the MOB (Men of Birchman), that team up for several outings throughout the year. Some have served on the planning committee in hosting the annual Dallas Sportsmen’s Prayer Breakfast held concurrently with the Dallas Safari Club convention. Teamwork is the key to a successful event.

Whether it is working together on a pheasant hunt or planning a ministry outreach, praying and serving as a team are critical for success.

Our hunting day begins with breakfast around 7:00 a.m.

After breakfast we gather together around 8:00 a.m. to read God’s Word in a morning devotional and study time.

Someone may share a testi-

mony of what God is doing in their lives as we relate the Holy Scriptures to life. The Bible study and sharing time usually last about an hour and a half then we conclude in prayer, always praying for each other and our country. We lose no time in our pheasant hunt because the hunting time is from 10:00 a.m. to sunset.

After our morning Bible time we head out to the field. When we arrive and get our gear together we begin each day’s hunt with two things: a hunter safety drill and then prayer. We do not take safety for granted even though one may be an experienced hunter. Every morning we go through the safety measures and then pray for God’s protection and thank Him for the beauty of the great outdoors and the privilege of enjoying it. Again teamwork is involved even in the safety measures as we assist each other with our shotguns in

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crossing fences and getting in and out of vehicles.

It is refreshing to meet men from across America that have the same values, beliefs, passions, and struggles you have.

These men come from different churches and backgrounds but we all have a common Savior, Jesus Christ. We also have the same burden for our country as we witness the culture and moral decline in our nation.

After the day’s hunt we freshen up and go to dinner. Then after dinner we gather again for Bible study and prayer.

Naturally at dinner is when all the tall tales of the day take shape. The stories boasting of that incredible, almost impossible shot instantly dropping the pheasant, which no one saw except the shooter! Or the one most humiliating, the “gimme” shot that a blind man could hit, and yet the bird flew off without even a scratch as if

mocking the shooter. Oh yes, everyone saw that gigantic miss. The camaraderie that takes place throughout the day and concentrates around the table is good therapy for all.

These times together sharing our journeys in Christ, our joys and sorrows, victories and challenges are some of the most memorable of the trip. It is a setting like this where men will often open themselves up to other men and share their hearts. As “iron sharpens iron” we are endeavoring to become better servants in our families, our churches and to those without Christ.

In your next outing let me encourage you to use it as an opportunity to grow together as a close knit team of brothers in Christ while waxing strong in your relationship with God.

Record Grizzly Ignites Questions About Trophy Categories Monday, May 12, 2014

MISSOULA, Mont. – News traveled fast when conservationists learned the largest grizzly bear ever taken by a hunter had been entered into Boone and Crockett records. Nearly as quickly, however, came questions about why grizzlies are distinguished from Alaska brown bears. After all, aren’t these technically the same species?

The Boone and Crockett Club announced the new record grizzly on May 5.

Soon after, an Anchorage, Alaska, newspaper headline chided, “Giant Grizzly is One for Some Record Books, But Not Alaska’s.” The article pointed out that Ursus arctos does in

fact grow to 10 feet tall along the coast, much larger than the heralded 9-footer killed far inland near Fairbanks. Why all the fuss about an alleged record specimen from upstate?

As you read below the official explanation from Club officials, keep in mind that the main objective of Boone and Crockett records-keeping is to provide a conservation tool for biologists. Trophy data are used to gauge outstanding habitat, strong recruitment of game animals into older age classes, sustainable harvest objectives and other elements of sound wildlife management and fair-chase hunting.

This from the Club: Genetically, this is indeed the same bear across its range.

But, morphologically, there are differences. For Boone and Crockett records-keeping purposes, a geographic boundary was established to recognize the two separate body types for Ursus arctos.

Bears living near the coast (Boone and Crockett’s Alaska brown bear classification) feast on high-protein salmon returning to the rivers each summer. These bears’ body and skull size have adapted to be far larger than bears living further inland. Coastal bears move little, establish themselves on a section of river and spend their lives close to a bounty of fish.

The life of an interior bear (Boone and Crockett’s grizzly bear classification) is far different. While they may eat fish in some cases, their diet is a wide array of food

sources from grubs and berries to migrating caribou and moose calves. More nomadic, these bears also are generally more aggressive as their survival literally hinges on being able to catch and kill their next meal. In order for trophy records to be useful for conservation and management purposes, Boone and Crockett Club recognized that data on the smaller interior bears shouldn’t be lumped with those of the larger coastal bears.

The Club also developed a standardized way to measure bear specimens. Although it’s common for hunters and other observers in the field to size a bear by its height or squared length of its hide, this method is not useful for records keeping. Hides can be stretched or dried, altering measurements. Nor can the measurements be

replicated later after tanning or mounting. Because of this, Boone and Crockett chose to use skull measurements.

Boone and Crockett maintains trophy records to gauge the success of conservation programs and to celebrate fairchase hunting as a component of game management.

All bears are scored based on skull length and width measurements. Current World’s Records: Alaska brown bear, 30-12/16; grizzly bear, 27-13/16; black bear, 23-10/16.

About the Boone and Crockett Club North America’s first hunting and conservation organization, the Boone and Crockett Club was founded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1887. Its mission is to provide the leadership, stewardship and education needed to promote the conservation and management of wildlife, especially big game and its habitat, to preserve and encourage hunting and to maintain the highest ethical standards of fair chase and sportsmanship. Join us at www.boone-crockett.org.

Equipping Sportsmen with Truth for Today By June Hunt

CONFLICT RESOLUTION

A TEXTBOOK FOR RELATIONSHIPS . . .

When you move from reading the Bible for historical accuracy to seeking answers for personal living, you soon realize that the Bible is a relational textbook.

Turn the pages through panoramas of Old Testament family life or tour the battlefields of a nation’s struggle with oppression.

Share in intimate, inner conflicts poignantly expressed in the Psalms, and seek ultimate truth as Jesus reveals God’s heart through parables and the very way He lived His life. You will never be able to plumb the depths of wisdom revealed in Scripture, but you will learn that conflict is a natural part of living. . . . God has a great deal to say about the necessity of seeking resolution.

“If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23–24)

Questions and Answers

Ways of Handling Conflict 3

“What Are Some Facts about Conflict?” 1

Some people resemble various creatures in the way they handle conflict.

Conflict cannot be avoided.

“In the world you will have tribulation.

But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Conflict is not bad.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)

The Snake . . . alias Backbiter Message: “Don’t tangle with me or you will regret it later.”

Conflict requires action toward peace.

The Woodpecker . . . alias Faultfinder Message: “Don’t get on my bad side or I’ll talk about you!”

“Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:19)

The Turtle . . . alias Retreater Message: “Don’t confront me because it won’t do any good.”

“What Is the Difference between Resolution and Reconciliation?”2

The Chameleon . . . alias Obligator Message: “I’m nice to you; you owe it to me to be nice back.”

Resolution and reconciliation are different.

Resolution means “finding the answer.”

Reconciliation means “restoring to harmony.”

Some differences may never be resolved, but you can still be reconciled to those with whom you differ. God requires only that, as far as it is possible, you seek to be at peace with everyone.

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:18)

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The Shark . . . alias Dictator Message: “Give in to me or I’ll attack!”

The Weasel . . . alias Twister Message: “I’m not going to get pinned down.”

“See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.” (Hebrews 12:15)

Responding to Difficult Personalities 4

Key Verse to Memorize: “Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:19)

The Shark Let them have their say without interrupting. Hold your ground.

Avoid arguments.

Key Passage to Read: Philemon verses 1–25

The Snake Expect them to deny what they have done. Don’t let them get away with an attack.

Pray for yourself. (Psalm 139:23–24)

The Woodpecker Learn to cut off negative conversation. Respond only to what is important.

The Turtle Ask questions that can’t be answered with yes or no. Hang in there until you get a response.

The Chameleon Learn their hidden fears.

Reinforce their decisions.

The Weasel Avoid accusations. Don’t get drawn into arguments.

“Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels.” (2 Timothy 2:23) If you would like more information, call 1-800-488-HOPE (4673) or visit www.HopeForTheHeart.org.

For prayer encouragement and biblical counsel, call 1-866-570-HOPE (4673).

The Road to Resolution 5 Pledge your commitment. (Romans 12:18) Prepare before you ask for a meeting. (Proverbs 16:21) Propose a time to talk face-to-face. (Ephesians 4:3) Provide a private place. (Matthew 18:15) Purpose to be honest. (Proverbs 12:17) Permit total forgiveness. (Colossians 3:13–14) Perceive a future harvest. (Galatians 6:9) “[Be] eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

(Ephesians 4:3) Turning Foes into Friends Find ways to compliment your enemies. (Romans 12:14) Repay evil with good toward your enemies. (Romans 12:17) Intercede in prayer for your enemies. (Matthew 5:44) Empathize with your enemies. (Romans 12:15) Nurture a forgiving heart toward your enemies. (Romans 12:19, 21) Decide to love your enemies. (Romans 13:8) Seek to fill the needs of your enemies. (Romans 12:20)

Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version.

Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The material of this section is based on G. Brian Jones and Linda Phillips-Jones, A Fight to the Better End (Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1989), 16–17; also Don Baker, Restoring Broken Relationships (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 1989), 131.

For this section, see New Oxford Dictionary of English (electronic ed.) (Oxford University Press, 1998); Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary. On the differences between resolution and reconciliation see also L. Randolph Lowry and Richard W. Meyers, Conflict Management and Counseling, Resources for Christian Counseling, ed. Gary R. Collins, vol. 29 (Waco, TX: Word, 1991), 26–29.

For this section, see Will Cunningham, How to Enjoy a Family Fight (Phoenix, AR: Questar, 1988), 151–80; Robert M. Bramson, Coping with Difficult People (Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1981), 13, 26–29, 44–-52, 70–73, 85–90.

For this section, see Bramson, Coping, 14–25, 29–34, 52–64, 74–84, 90–97; H. Norman Wright, How to Get Along with Almost Anyone: A Complete Guide to Building Positive Relationships with Family, Friends, Co-workers (Dallas: Word, 1989), 140–43, 136–37.

See Jones and Phillips-Jones, A Fight to the Better End, 50–54, 60–61; Josh McDowell, Resolving Conflict (Pomona, CA: Focus on the Family, 1989), 8, 11; Cunningham, How to Enjoy a Family Fight, 123–25, 127–31, 191.

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Trophies of Grace 2014

Join with other sportsmen in “Climbing Legacy Mountain” as we build a strong foundation for establishing effective outdoors ministries in local churches across the nation. A fun skeet shoot is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Wolf Creek so bring your shotguns (or rent a loaner) and make sure to practice your aim! Round trip airfare into Atlanta from most cities is very affordable. Seating for the Leadership Summit is limited so make sure to confirm your registration today!

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