Over the years, I have tried to bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters. I appreciate that some regard hunting as barbaric and that it has no relevance in modern civilization. But the fact remains that over 20 million Americans still consider hunting a wholesome outdoor activity that tests a person’s fiber and puts food on the table. Many also enjoy the unique and intimate fellowship opportunities that come from sharing in a thrilling stalk and brilliant campfire.
I have a deep love for all that God has created. I’m also vitally concerned about what is happening to the wildlife around the world. God created the heavens and earth with a divine plan. The only thing He created with a soul was man. He gave man dominion and stewardship over all His creation so that we might enjoy and use creation to sustain life. Animals have served the purpose of sacrifice, food, clothing, recreation, and companionship.
God did not put animals on the earth for us to worship them. His Son died on the cross for man not animals. He also demanded that we be good stewards and managers of His resources. There are numerous countries that have severe problems maintaining their vegetation and agricultural resources because of an imbalance in wild animal management. Without controlled hunting we could not sustain healthy populations of animals. Overcrowding and disease would settle in on the wild and domestic animal populations threatening the balance God intended.
We hunt not to brag or boast, not to wastefully slaughter game, nor to destroy or devour for selfish gain. Outdoorsmen should respect God’s creation as they carefully and selectively take animals that are in abundance.
Hunting is among the most ancient of outdoor skills. While the Israelites were known more for their pastoral skills, archeological evidence and the Scriptures identify several well-known people who participated in the sport of hunting. For example, Esau was a “skillful hunter” (Genesis 25:27), and King Solomon loved wild game as provisions for his royal court, including “deer, gazelles, roebuck, and choice fowl.” (1 Kings 4:23)
It was God Himself who told Noah, “Everything that lives and moves will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.” (Genesis 9:3). God also made it permissible under Jewish law to hunt and eat wild game: “The deer, the gazelle, the roe deer, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope and the mountain sheep.” (Deuteronomy 14:5 and 12:15)
My intent in this devotional isn’t to make hunters of us all, but rather to demonstrate the breadth and depth of God’s Word and its wisdom for living and answering the tough questions of life. Remember, God is the greatest hunter of all. He has been hunting for men to worship Him and fellowship with Him since the Garden of Eden.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 1
Personal Application: As we participate in this wonderful sport, lets us remember to give thanks to Him who made all that we enjoy. Praise Him for His amazing provision!
Wendell Morton and Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5