Today's Photograph: Beautiful Speckled Trout (Will D.)
Bible Study Verse
Matthew 16:1-4
The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven. He replied, "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah." Jesus then left them and went away. (NIV)
Thoughts
Long-range radar, internet, satellite phones, and global satellite positioning weather overlays: these are some of the amazing electronics available to mariners for monitoring the weather when working or playing at sea. We place great trust in these instruments; yet our understanding of the weather conditions remains only as good as the images these electronics provide. If they fail us offshore, we can only look to the sky for the information we need.
The Pharisees and the Sadducees placed their faith only in what they could see. Jesus knew their demands for a supernatural sign came out of closed hearts and unbelief; and so, He denied them the answer to their "test" question. Before becoming a Christian, I also searched for proof of God--seeking some sign in the physical realm. Because of my lack of faith, I did not find it. Time passed until one November morning I sought God with an open, believing heart. It was in that moment I found what I had been seeking. When I truly believed and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior by faith, He showed me, and continues to show me, many miracles. (WD)
Action Point
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1).
I pray that you place your hope and faith in the certainty of Jesus Christ. The things you see can fail you, but the Word of God and His saving grace never will.
A Daily Study of God's Word for Christian Sportsmen July 15, 2008 
