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Gary Miller
If you look at a map of the migration routes of these birds you will notice there are only a few areas that encompass these flyways. The folks in these places are the blessed ones who not only get to hunt themselves, but who are also able to make an income opening their properties up to the rest of us. And hunters come from all over America to see the skies filled with ducks and to pull the trigger on their fair share.
In the past few years, my time in the duck blind with friends has been as enjoyable as any hunting or fishing that I have done. And I’m looking forward to the day that I get to hunt from one of those elite blinds that not only houses the hunters, but is also equipped with a kitchen where breakfast is served in between flyovers. Call me.
When I think of all of these outdoor opportunities, I am reminded once again of how blessed I am and how thankful I ought to be. While I am enjoying my freedoms in the land of plenty, many in the world will die today because of the lack of food and clean water. While many of us will keep buying more and bigger, much of the world will lie down tonight surrounded by disease and decay. While thousands will camp out overnight for a special deal on the latest video game, Black Friday will be just that for many on that day.
I am not trying to rain on your parade. I am just trying to remind you and me that we are not blessed because of our hard work, education, business sense, or any other self-serving and vain proposition. But we are blessed simply because God………well, simply because God.
Here’s how Moses spoke it to those who were coming into the Promised Land; “He fed you with manna in the wilderness, a food unknown to your ancestors. He did this to humble you and test you for your own good. He did it so you would never think that it was your own strength and energy that made you wealthy. Always remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you power to become rich, and he does it to fulfill the covenant he made with your ancestors.”(Deut 8)
There are three things to notice in this passage. First, we are to be humbled by God’s goodness. There is no place for boot-strap type arrogance. Secondly, we are to be thankful. When we are thankful, we recognize the true source of all that we have. And lastly, our wealth is to test us. Will we hoard it or use it? Will we understand that our wealth can save lives or we will continue to pamper our own existence? Do we see ourselves as a bucket for God’s blessings or as a funnel through which He can get His provision to those who need it most?
Each one of us must answer these questions for ourselves. I know which one I want to be and there’s no better time of the year to start, than now.
Gary Miller
gary@outdoortruths.org
