If you’ve been a hunter for more than about 10 minutes, then you probably recognize the phrase, “It’s not just a passion, it’s an obsession.” Mossy Oak’s clever catch phrase is marketing genius and paints the perfect picture of how many of us feel about our outdoor lifestyle.
Now, before I get into the meat of the devotion, let me just say that there is nothing wrong with having a passion. If fact, I believe that God instills passions within each of us and we are given the opportunity to use these passions to further His kingdom. The problem begins when this passion truly turns into an obsession, or what we would biblically refer to as an “idol”.
In Exodus 20: 3-4, we are clearly warned about having idols.
“You shall don't have any alternative gods before me. You shall not bring yourselfan idolin the shape of something in heaven on top of or on the world below or within the waters below.”
Exodus 20: 3-4
It is a fine line and one that is easily blurred. So, just how do we determine when hunting – or anything else in our life – has become an idol? If it becomes the primary focus of your life and is where you invest the majority of your time, then there is a good chance that hunting has become an idol. If you put it before your faith, family, friends and responsibilities, then it is time to take a serious look at the priorities in your life.
Unfortunately, I can relate to this all too well, as it wasn’t too long ago that I let hunting, and the many activities associated with it, become the number one thing in my life. As a result, my family life suffered, my spiritual life suffered, and I began to lose much of the happiness in my life. Only by stepping back and seeing where I had strayed, and subsequently reprioritizing my life, was I able to find balance and peace of mind once again.
So, I just want to challenge each an every one of you to take an objective look at the time you are investing in your passion for hunting (or any other passion you may have). Has it become the central focus of your life? If so, I urge you to step back and make a plan to get your priorities back in order – faith, family, friends and then hunting. I can promise you that the result will be less stress and more enjoyment in your life.
“No one will serve 2 masters. Either he can hate the one and love the other, or he are going to be dedicated to the one and hate the other. you can't serve each God and Money.”
Matthew 6:24
Do you have a story to share about the role hunting has taken in your life? We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!
