Thank God
The 4' tall grass kept moving above us as some kind of large animal made its way toward us- 15 yards... 10 yards... 20 feet... 10 feet... We had our rifles up and ready to 'fire.' It was a little surreal. The animal was so close and yet completely hidden. Though I was new to Alaska and had never shot a bear, I couldn't imagine what else it could be. Whatever it was, it was walking right into us. And then, at the last possible moment, there it was- we could just see the head of a large black bear only feet away from us.
Sometimes a good thing just falls into your lap. We were hunting for bear, scouting for sign, hoping for bear... and way out in the middle of the mountains- miles from the nearest road- one walked right up to us. One of the sad truths about our fallen nature is that we often focus on and remember the things we DON'T get- the times when things DON'T work out- all the while forgetting to praise and thank God for the many things that seem to fall beautifully into place almost without our notice.
In Philippians 4:12-13 the Apostle Paul wrote, "I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in all circumstances, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength." Do you have a roof over your head and a warm bed? Thank God. Did your car start at −20°? Thank God. Do you have people in your life to love and serve? Thank God, and you will be blessed! -Pastor Brad
Written on January 9, 2026
Posted in Daily Devotions