Calling – A Closer Walk To God is this weeks Outdoor Truth with Gary Miller.

Calling – A Closer Walk To God

Unlike some other types of hunting, pursuing the turkey is very enjoyable doing with a partner; especially if one is doing the calling and the other is doing the shooting. Most people who have hunted turkey for a period of time will tell you they enjoy calling in a bird as much as shooting one. Not only do you get to share in a successful shot but the caller gets a sense of pride in knowing that if it weren’t for his calling the shot would’ve never been made.  Most of the time, shooting a turkey is less about a hunter’s skill and more about the caller’s mastery of the tools of the trade. I don’t consider myself an expert caller, but I figure if I can fool a gobbler I have at least accomplished somewhat of an ability to use a call. I may never win a national calling championship but I can enjoy a deep fried turkey breast. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m sure I’ve missed my share of opportunities because I’m no expert, but I’m not going to stay home because I’m not as good as the next guy. I really wish I were a better caller. I’ve bought videos and cds, just trying to hear and replicate the sounds, but it seems many other hunters just have a greater predisposition for quality calling, than I do. I’m just glad I’ve not let my lack of calling ability detour me from the turkey woods.

These thoughts remind me of another type of calling that I enjoy, and that’s calling hunters to a closer walk with God. I admit that when I listen to other “callers,” sometimes I get discouraged because I’m just not as good as they are. I’ve wished that God had made me like the guy on an old commercial about a financial group – E.F Hutton. The ditty goes, “When E.F. Hutton speaks, everyone listens.” But God has not gifted me in that way. He made me who I am – gifted in some ways, lacking in others. He made you the same way. You now have a choice and it’s the same choice I had in hunting turkey; either to stay home because of my lack of ability, or continue to do what I love to do, the best I can. Again, you know what I chose.

Has something or someone told you that you are unable, ungifted, or unqualified? Do you consider yourself a novice in the midst of experts? Are you letting the shadow of someone else’s greatness hide your own light?  Remember, it’s just a ploy to keep you at home so that you never enjoy the successes that God has in store, for just you.

Gary Miller
gary@outdoortruths.org

Gary has three books that are compilations of the articles he has written for nearly 15 years. He also speaks at game dinners and men’s groups for churches and associations.

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_{DISCLAIMER: The views, beliefs and opinions expressed in this article, Outdoor Truths, are those of Gary Miller and do not necessarily reflect the views, beliefs or opinions of Courageous Christian Father. Outdoor Truth’s is a syndicated article published in various newspaper and online sources and has been used on Courageous Christian Father with permission from Gary Miller. #OutdoorTruths}

About the Author

Gary Miller

Gary began pursuing his desire to write a newspaper column to hunters and fishermen that would lead them to contemplate their relationship with their Creator. The column was picked up by two newspapers. After these many years now, it covers much of the country not only through several newspapers but also through regional magazines and online. His writing provided opportunities to speak to these same hunters and fishermen at events such as Beast Feasts. The results were men giving their lives to Christ.
Even though he was not raised in a hunting or fishing home, Gary has followed his heart to the water and woods since he was a child. What started on the banks of the local canal catching carp, now extends to every part of his life as he aims outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen toward Christ.

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