Scripture Reading: Genesis 9:1-7
How long has hunting been around? It obviously predates compounds, Fiberglass re-curves, and aluminum arrows. We all realize that hunting existed long before the invention of double odd buck and black powder rifles. Hunting even predates the U.S. Constitution, the Pilgrims, and Native Americans who were here long before the Mayflower arrived.
The fact is, to learn about the early history of hunting a person needs to examine God's word, the Bible. According to the Scriptures more than four thousand years ago a man named Nimrod was the first to become famous for his activities in the field. Some time after the flood in Noah's day (Gen. 6-9) and before the confusion of language at Babel (Gen. 11:1-9), Nimrod appeared on the stage of human history. The Bible says concerning him, "He was a mighty hunter before the Lord; that is why it is said, 'Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before the Lord"' (Gen. 10:9).
Nevertheless, to arrive at the very fountain head of hunting we must ultimately turn to God. It was He 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" (Gen. 9:3). Along with this the Lord implemented certain rules of conduct intended to govern human behavior as it related to the taking of another creature's life (Gen., 9:4-5; see also Lev. 17:13-14). In a very real sense there have always been hunting regulations.
Prayer: Lord God help me to recognize that when it comes to hunting I am accountable to you. Help me to obey game regulations in such a way that it reflects my relationship with you in an honorable way. I ask this in Jesus' Name. Amen.
© 1995 Tom Rakow. All rights reserved. Taken from their “Devotions for Deer Hunters” Vol. II ©. Dr. Rakow is the President of The Christian Deer Hunters Association (CDHA) and Rock Dove Publications. He has granted permission for us to post his devotions. They publish several other Christian devotions in booklets. CDHA's address is P.O. Box 432, Silver Lake, Minnesota, 55381. Their phone number is 320-327-2266. http://www.christiandeerhunters.org is their Web address. Rock Dove’s phone number is 1-888-HIS-DOVE. Their Web address is http://www.rockdove.com. Randy Rowley will be happy to check out a Rock Dove booklet (Devotions for Dog Lovers or The Story of the Prodigal Pooch) or a CDHA newsletter or devotional booklet ("Devotions for Deer Hunters" Volumes II, III, or IV) to FCS members only.