First Things First...
Jesus is King!
"How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! “
Psalm 47:2 (NIV)
This blog, really is about hiking. You know, taking little treks out into the wilderness, enjoying the great outdoors with friends and family.... learning about nature and the natural world around you, but before we begin, let's put the first things first and get things into a Christian perspective with some Christian thoughts to think about and consider as you embark on a personal journey into the real wilderness area around you. It is my hope that these thoughts will inspire and encourage you as you plan and prepare for stepping out into the real wilderness around you. This is a complication of notes from a Hiking Project I did with my own family, once upon a trail.....
To get started, all you have to do is want to go hiking and be sure you are in good health for the activity. You will need to select hikes near where you live that are of interest and ability for you and those you plan to hike with. Because this is a hiking resource, we will begin at the very beginning... and as you know, in the beginning...
"Where did everything around you, even you, come from?"
Answer: God
(Wise philosophers and smart scientists throughout the centuries have been attempting to answer, probe and solve this very question for all mankind.)
The simple answer, one most "scientists" (and many philosophers) do not like, is "God." They do not like the notion that God ultimately rules and will judge the world of sin.
What do you believe?
What do you think about God?
Do you think of God as a King over you and all the earth?
If you believe in God and believe the scriptures call the Holy Bible to be true, that is great. It's also great that you want to go hiking, get back to nature and feel the wind on your face. Hiking can be a great way to make time to stop the business of life and conside life, the universe and everything... even God.
Sometimes things seem way out of control. Sometimes we don;t understand why things are the way that they are, but as Christians, we know scriptures tells us and we profess to believe Jesus is King. He was even crucified, albeit mockingly, as King of the Jews. Why?
Because Jesus is King! (John 18:37-40)
But what is a king?
Time for a definition... A king is a male ruler or sovereign over a kingdom, one with absolute rule and power and you should look up the definition of king in your own dictionary, maybe even several to see what they say. And you should think about what it means, to be a king. What exactly does it look like to have absolute rule and power?
Think about that.
Understanding what a king is may be difficult for you because in recent history, kings are pretty much obsolete. Here in the United States of America, it's been over two hundred years since we had a king. In fact, no one is alive today who can remember the Revolutionary War, but we all have learned it was the king's oppression of the people, his tyranny, that caused the revolt from which the United States was subsequently born. Since that time we have been one nation, and we have declared that we are one nation, under the rule of God, (not the King of England,) but in our rejection of God, we seem to have forgotten the power of a ruling and reigning "king." Today we see few kings who rule the land, to whom men are subject, but this has not always been so for throughout human history, there were many human kings who ruled various states and providences, each passing on the reign of authority to their sons.
As you can see, God, in scripture, is referred to as a King. He is present to us as the creator of all things, and ruler over all. He is the father, and he has a son who is his heir. (Hebrews 1:2)
As king, God deserves to be honored by men, and his ways, his decrees and commands should rule our lives. But God being the deserving of our honor is more than an Old Testament thing, for it is God who sent his only begotten son, our savior, Jesus Christ, into the world. He deserves the same honor as his father the king.
In 1 Timothy 1:17. It reads, "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."
There was a time in Israel’s history when God’s people desired the rule of a king like the other nations of the world. While God’s divine appointment of King was David, the people of the nation Israel desired a different leader, one more comely and stately... in their opinion. Their favored person to be king was man by the name of Saul. It was this man, Saul who was the first king of Israel and this instead of David, whom god had anointed for the position. Despite the will of the people, David did become king and he ruled and reigned because it was what God ordained.
As king, Saul persecuted David and was jealous over him. (1 Samuel 18-27) Trusting in the providence and authority of God, David honored God in his dealing with Saul and eventually took the throne.
As king, David had his failings, because he was but a man. but he still honored God. As king, David recognized he was not God, even repented of his sin, realizing that there is no earthly man who can rule as justly as God himself. God loved David and God continued working through David his plan for a savior, and eventually, through the line of David, came Jesus, the one who was to come, God's promised seed. Righteous and Holy, God and man, he was named Jesus, because he was to save the people from their sin. Jesus was king of the Jews and he was to rule as Son of God, and king, but, if you know history, you know he was rejected and crucified instead.
An Activity To Get You Thinking
As a starting activity, look up the word "king" in a dictionary and think about what a king is and what he does. Have the children in your care make a list with you of all the kings (and queens) they can think of both real and make believe, noting where they ruled and reigned and where they lived. If you want a long list, use an encyclopedia or the Internet.
Separate the ones on your list into two list, fictional kings or real. Then, consider:
1. What were these kings known or famous for?
2. Were they “good” or “bad”? Why?
3. What qualities should a good and wise ruler have? (See if you can come up with at least five)
Then look over your list of what makes a good king or ruler and think about Jesus.
Does Jesus fit any of those qualities? Can you find some examples from scripture that support your answers for each quality you see in Jesus that makes him a good ruler?
You will see that Jesus is indeed and very good candidate to be a king.
4. Select a Bible verse or two that you like, one that expresses that Jesus is King and Lord and write it out. (You may use a concordance if you need help. Also, you may wish to memorize it or illustrate it as a keepsake or poster to hang as a display.)
But wait...this really is about hiking. You know, taking little treks out into the wilderness... enjoying the great outdoors with friends and family.... learning about nature and the natural world around you. So, what is all this about Jesus? And why is this blog titled, Hiking with the High King? Does it really have to be religious?
Hiking is, like life, an adventure. Life and hiking both require some survival skills, things you need to know so you do not die exposed to the elements. There are dangers. Like hikers need a map, a compass and some direction to get where they need to go, people need God as a point of reference in their lives.
Whether it's in the daily living of life here in the wilderness outside of Eden, our original God created home, or in hiking through the wilderness of our natural world we need to give thought to our ways and our existence, else we simply aimless roaming around lost, and wind up dead. We cannot be reckless and wild and expect to live or hike very well. We need direction and guidance to get us through all the adventures that do come our way. By following wisdom, by seek to understand, to do what is right and good, by looking and listening, and using our minds as we discover life around us, we will also draw closer to God and God will reveal who he is, if we do not already know.
He is king, and Christians, people who are part of the kingdom of God do recognize that Jesus is rules and reigns with authority and power. They know they are subject to Him. So, you see, when you are living with Jesus in your heart and mind, you are essentially, walking with the Lord. For the Christian who is hiking we can say, "Hiking," with the High King!
There are many spiritual paths a person can take in life, as many as there are wilderness of the countryside to sojourn in... but there is only one way to know God, one true and right way back to the eternal life intended for man by God, and that way is through Jesus Christ. Putting one foot in front of the other, we will walk the journey of life or the hiking trail. Putting our faith in Jesus Christ, God will be with us wherever we go.
We need not fear. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.... Christians will walk the walk of faith, even go hiking, with the High King.
Here are some more Christian thoughts to meditate on:
1. The natural world is created by God, not created by some cosmic accident of random chance or chaos.
Gen 1:1
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
2. The natural world is tainted with sin and death and must be overcome. Jesus Christ ultimately overcame both on our behalf by His death and subsequent resurrection from the dead.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
3. God's hand and workmanship can be seen in the living reality we are in. It's good to be outdoors and see the world face to face, to feel the wind against our skin, to be cold and hot, hungry and thirsty, tired. It is good to feel alive, to know our need, and then to find refreshment as well as to be strengthened by our ability to endure. People like you and I need to get out of the house and car more, to turn of the television and go play outside where we can experience the natural, God created world, and see nature, reality face to face. If we are never vulnerable, how will we know our need? There is much we can learn from observing the world around us.
There is much we can learn from the Word of God!
Rev 3:16-17..."Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:"
And
Mat 6:26-27
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Psalm 19:1-4
The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world
4. There are real dangers in the wilderness and real things we must consider. You can bet that you will end up dealing with unexpected problems that arise. You may only encounter mosquitoes on a hike, but you could also encounter a snake bite, and you should be prepared and know what to do to mitigate and meet the challenges of the hiking trail. Be prepared for anything, knowing that you can encounter unforeseen situations, but most importantly ultimately trusting God not only to lead you and guide you, but to help you in time of need.
Proverbs 16:9
A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.
Psalm 46:1-3
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
5. There are lots of people who know things about the wilderness from which we can learn what to expect... and as for our faith, there are many witnesses too...
Consider...
Acts 10:37-43...
That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem..... To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
John 3: 12: (Jesus speaking)
"If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?"
6. We people on Earth are somewhere between the two worlds of life and death, darkness and light, good and evil and we have discovered many ways of protecting ourselves from harm, sometimes we even fear going our of our comfort zones because we know the dangers that there are and we are afraid of the unknown. Remember Christian, that God is with you. He has promised to never leave you or forsake you. He is real.
Job 24
particularly Job 24 verse 14-17 They are of those that rebel against the light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof. The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy, and in the night is as a thief. The eye also of the adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth his face. In the dark they dig through houses, which they had marked for themselves in the daytime: they know not the light. For the morning is to them even as the shadow of death: if one know them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death.
Duet 4:27 -31
And the LORD shall scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left few in number among the heathen, whither the LORD shall lead you. And there ye shall serve gods, the work of men's hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell. But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them
And so, embark now on your own wilderness adventure...
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Preparation for Hiking In Your Local Area
Preparation for Hiking
What is hiking?
Hiking, as we will use the term here, is taking a long walk, usually in the woods or along a nature trail. It is different from backpacking because with backpacking, you plan to stay overnight, or to cook a meal and so you carry your supplies with you, set up a tent and camp. While you may hike while you backpack, we are preparing for simple day hikes, hikes that can be complete within the daylight hours.
So, where exactly are you going? when will you return? What will you bring with you? You will have to figure that out for yourself, but here is some information to help you get started and give you some basic information in preparation for wilderness travel.
Things You Need
Because hiking does have some potential hazards, you will need to be prepared for your hikes. There are some things you need to have when you hike.
1. Knowledge of where you are going and the trail you will take. Knowing the terrain , as well as the distance of the hike is important and it will help you estimate how long the journey will take you. You may need to have a map and a compass or a GPS to keep you on track, but these may not always be necessary. It all depends upon the trail.
2. Water. Be sure to take water in a canteen or bottle that you can carry with you. There are small day pack made for such excursions that make carrying supplies easy, so you may want to have some kind of day pack for this purpose.
3. Flashlight. While you will most likely not need a flashlight for a day hike, a flashlight will prove helpful if for some reason you stay out longer than you anticipate and need to see the trail to get back in the dark. This kind of situation has happened to competent hikers before, some who did not have a flashlight in their time of need, so plan to take one in your day pack, just in case.
4. Appropriate-to-the-weather clothing. It is ideal to dress in layers in case of a weather change. Long sleeves can serve to keep you warm in cold, or in heat, protect against sunburn and bug bites and short sleeves are great for when you work up a sweat hiking or it's hot out. It's nice to have some options when you are in the wild, so think ahead, be prepared... bring both, and check the weather before you set out for the day.
5. Sunscreen and sunglasses or hat to shade the skin and eyes and head.
6. First aid kit. This can be as simple as some antibacterial wipes and stick on bandages, but you may need to be sure you have other items like mosquito repellent, mole skin (for blisters) smelling salts, tissue or tweezers and alcohol wipes.
7. Whistle. A whistle is a good way to signal others of danger or a need for help.
8. A buddy. Yes, do not hike alone, hike with a friend.
Going outside can be a big adventure, after all the wilderness is where the wild things are. It can seem both magically delightful and downright scary sometimes at the same time. Surely a person can go into the wilderness alone and be just fine, but that is not the recommendation here. Because we know that two are better off than one, because together they can work more effectively. After all, if one of them falls down, the other can help him up. But if someone is alone and falls, it's just too bad, because there is no one to help him. And not only that, but if it is cold, two can sleep together and stay warm (How can you keep warm by yourself ?) Also, two people can resist an attack that would defeat one person alone. (from Ecclesiastes, Chapter 4:9-12. GNB)
9. Good, comfortable shoes that will keep your feet from slipping when you are on uneven ground. Boots or tennis shoes are great for hiking, but remember, if you buy new shoes for hiking, break them in by giving them some wear time before a long hike to help your feet adjust to the new shoes. There is nothing worse than sore feet from new shoes on a three hour hike.
10. Bandanna. You will marvel at the usefulness of such a simple item, as a bandanna is useful for many things. You can wet it and wear around your neck to help keep you cool. You can use it to press a wound to help stop bleeding. It can become as sap barrier, use it for sitting down on logs so the sap stays off of your clothing or for sitting on sand in your shorts. It can be a dust barrier for you mouth and nose in a dust storm, just like in old western movies. You can also use it tied around your head, to keep the hair our of your face or the beads of sweat on your forehead from dripping into your eyes. You can even use it to carry nature items you collect, even tie it to a stick and carry stuff just like a hobo. You can clean your glasses, blow you nose, use it as a sunshade or bug deterrent by hanging it under your hat, or filter small rocks from water in a pinch. It can serve as emergency toilet paper, or trail marker if you need to remember which trail you took. I am sure you can think of your own uses, but first you need to have one to use.
11. Notebook. Keep a trip log of the place you hike, note special things that happen, people you meet, Items you want to take on your next excursion. You will be happy you did.
God gave us eyes to see and ears to hear... so as you travel,take in the sights and smells and sounds of nature around you. You will see how marvelously God created everything, and you will get a glimpse of your own strengths and weaknesses and develop new outdoor skills that will last you for a lifetime.
Everything takes preparation. Preparation simply means being ready for what is about to happen.
Before you set out to hike in the wilderness, the group leader should make hiking plans for your group. Keep in mind that the plans on this blog were written for a novice group of hikers. The group consisted of several moms who wanted to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and learn a little bit about our local area along the way. We met one day each week for a short wilderness hike around Spokane, WA with kids of all ages in tow. You may tailor the course we used to suit your needs and abilities anyway you would like to.
For help finding easy hikes in your area, I recommend that you first contact your local sporting goods store, or ranger station. They will be happy to assist you with guidance in selecting hikes suitable for families with kids, and provide you with any tourist type of information you can use in selecting suitable hiking trails for your local area. Choose the easiest hike first and progress in difficulty or duration as you progress each week.
Each participant will need their own water bottle or canteen that can easily be carried, and good hiking shoes. Other supplies may be necessary depending on your local area and the season you hike in, so be sure every member of your hiking group knows what they need to have on hand.
By planning your outings in advance, every participant will know exactly where the group is meeting and hiking. Organizers will know who is expected to arrive and how many are in your group and be better equipped to keep track of who is and is not with your group in order to help prevent anyone from getting lost. It's also important for someone who is not going on the trip to be told where your group will be hiking on a particular day, in case you do not return. Being prepared will make your hikes run smoothly.
Also, be prepared for an unexpected emergency. Have items on hand like flashlights, a whistle, first aid supplies, extra water and even snacks in case of need. Plan your trips well so that you will not be out on a trail after dark, and remember that life in the wilds, away from civilization is very different. It can be dangerous. Remember that there are poisonous bugs and snakes, wild animals, cliffs and precipices, human frailties like hunger and thirst, low blood sugar and fatigue and there is other people too. You may be stepping out of your comfort zone as you embrace the great outdoors, but you can prepare the best you can, and then simply trust that it will be an adventure.
Being in nature makes one feel a little vulnerable, however, with wisdom and knowledge, and even teamwork, one can overcome obstacles should they arise. ON a trail on a simple day hike, you will most likely navigate the wilderness pretty well, but sometimes even those who know many things about nature, fist aid, survival skills and good health will find themselves in a tough and unexpected situation.
In the city or in the wild, you can hike with confidence when you hike with the High King! If you find yourself in trouble remember the three C's. stay calm cool and collected. Remember that God is with you where ever you go. If you find yourself in trouble, do not hesitate to pray, because God is a very wise and noble being who hears our prayers and answers when we call.
For information about some of the great hiking places in and around Spokane, see:
http://www.rei.com/passport
and click on the State of Washington... (or your state of choice for REI does these great hikes all over the USA) Then click on Spokane. All these hikes are great and easy and fun to do with kids! there are also some great worksheets (See: bonus activities) to print for your family.
If you feel more adventurous... try these:
http://www.localhikes.com/MSA/MSA_7840.asp
http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=15074
What is hiking?
Hiking, as we will use the term here, is taking a long walk, usually in the woods or along a nature trail. It is different from backpacking because with backpacking, you plan to stay overnight, or to cook a meal and so you carry your supplies with you, set up a tent and camp. While you may hike while you backpack, we are preparing for simple day hikes, hikes that can be complete within the daylight hours.
So, where exactly are you going? when will you return? What will you bring with you? You will have to figure that out for yourself, but here is some information to help you get started and give you some basic information in preparation for wilderness travel.
Things You Need
Because hiking does have some potential hazards, you will need to be prepared for your hikes. There are some things you need to have when you hike.
1. Knowledge of where you are going and the trail you will take. Knowing the terrain , as well as the distance of the hike is important and it will help you estimate how long the journey will take you. You may need to have a map and a compass or a GPS to keep you on track, but these may not always be necessary. It all depends upon the trail.
2. Water. Be sure to take water in a canteen or bottle that you can carry with you. There are small day pack made for such excursions that make carrying supplies easy, so you may want to have some kind of day pack for this purpose.
3. Flashlight. While you will most likely not need a flashlight for a day hike, a flashlight will prove helpful if for some reason you stay out longer than you anticipate and need to see the trail to get back in the dark. This kind of situation has happened to competent hikers before, some who did not have a flashlight in their time of need, so plan to take one in your day pack, just in case.
4. Appropriate-to-the-weather clothing. It is ideal to dress in layers in case of a weather change. Long sleeves can serve to keep you warm in cold, or in heat, protect against sunburn and bug bites and short sleeves are great for when you work up a sweat hiking or it's hot out. It's nice to have some options when you are in the wild, so think ahead, be prepared... bring both, and check the weather before you set out for the day.
5. Sunscreen and sunglasses or hat to shade the skin and eyes and head.
6. First aid kit. This can be as simple as some antibacterial wipes and stick on bandages, but you may need to be sure you have other items like mosquito repellent, mole skin (for blisters) smelling salts, tissue or tweezers and alcohol wipes.
7. Whistle. A whistle is a good way to signal others of danger or a need for help.
8. A buddy. Yes, do not hike alone, hike with a friend.
Going outside can be a big adventure, after all the wilderness is where the wild things are. It can seem both magically delightful and downright scary sometimes at the same time. Surely a person can go into the wilderness alone and be just fine, but that is not the recommendation here. Because we know that two are better off than one, because together they can work more effectively. After all, if one of them falls down, the other can help him up. But if someone is alone and falls, it's just too bad, because there is no one to help him. And not only that, but if it is cold, two can sleep together and stay warm (How can you keep warm by yourself ?) Also, two people can resist an attack that would defeat one person alone. (from Ecclesiastes, Chapter 4:9-12. GNB)
9. Good, comfortable shoes that will keep your feet from slipping when you are on uneven ground. Boots or tennis shoes are great for hiking, but remember, if you buy new shoes for hiking, break them in by giving them some wear time before a long hike to help your feet adjust to the new shoes. There is nothing worse than sore feet from new shoes on a three hour hike.
10. Bandanna. You will marvel at the usefulness of such a simple item, as a bandanna is useful for many things. You can wet it and wear around your neck to help keep you cool. You can use it to press a wound to help stop bleeding. It can become as sap barrier, use it for sitting down on logs so the sap stays off of your clothing or for sitting on sand in your shorts. It can be a dust barrier for you mouth and nose in a dust storm, just like in old western movies. You can also use it tied around your head, to keep the hair our of your face or the beads of sweat on your forehead from dripping into your eyes. You can even use it to carry nature items you collect, even tie it to a stick and carry stuff just like a hobo. You can clean your glasses, blow you nose, use it as a sunshade or bug deterrent by hanging it under your hat, or filter small rocks from water in a pinch. It can serve as emergency toilet paper, or trail marker if you need to remember which trail you took. I am sure you can think of your own uses, but first you need to have one to use.
11. Notebook. Keep a trip log of the place you hike, note special things that happen, people you meet, Items you want to take on your next excursion. You will be happy you did.
God gave us eyes to see and ears to hear... so as you travel,take in the sights and smells and sounds of nature around you. You will see how marvelously God created everything, and you will get a glimpse of your own strengths and weaknesses and develop new outdoor skills that will last you for a lifetime.
Everything takes preparation. Preparation simply means being ready for what is about to happen.
Before you set out to hike in the wilderness, the group leader should make hiking plans for your group. Keep in mind that the plans on this blog were written for a novice group of hikers. The group consisted of several moms who wanted to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and learn a little bit about our local area along the way. We met one day each week for a short wilderness hike around Spokane, WA with kids of all ages in tow. You may tailor the course we used to suit your needs and abilities anyway you would like to.
For help finding easy hikes in your area, I recommend that you first contact your local sporting goods store, or ranger station. They will be happy to assist you with guidance in selecting hikes suitable for families with kids, and provide you with any tourist type of information you can use in selecting suitable hiking trails for your local area. Choose the easiest hike first and progress in difficulty or duration as you progress each week.
Each participant will need their own water bottle or canteen that can easily be carried, and good hiking shoes. Other supplies may be necessary depending on your local area and the season you hike in, so be sure every member of your hiking group knows what they need to have on hand.
By planning your outings in advance, every participant will know exactly where the group is meeting and hiking. Organizers will know who is expected to arrive and how many are in your group and be better equipped to keep track of who is and is not with your group in order to help prevent anyone from getting lost. It's also important for someone who is not going on the trip to be told where your group will be hiking on a particular day, in case you do not return. Being prepared will make your hikes run smoothly.
Also, be prepared for an unexpected emergency. Have items on hand like flashlights, a whistle, first aid supplies, extra water and even snacks in case of need. Plan your trips well so that you will not be out on a trail after dark, and remember that life in the wilds, away from civilization is very different. It can be dangerous. Remember that there are poisonous bugs and snakes, wild animals, cliffs and precipices, human frailties like hunger and thirst, low blood sugar and fatigue and there is other people too. You may be stepping out of your comfort zone as you embrace the great outdoors, but you can prepare the best you can, and then simply trust that it will be an adventure.
Being in nature makes one feel a little vulnerable, however, with wisdom and knowledge, and even teamwork, one can overcome obstacles should they arise. ON a trail on a simple day hike, you will most likely navigate the wilderness pretty well, but sometimes even those who know many things about nature, fist aid, survival skills and good health will find themselves in a tough and unexpected situation.
In the city or in the wild, you can hike with confidence when you hike with the High King! If you find yourself in trouble remember the three C's. stay calm cool and collected. Remember that God is with you where ever you go. If you find yourself in trouble, do not hesitate to pray, because God is a very wise and noble being who hears our prayers and answers when we call.
For information about some of the great hiking places in and around Spokane, see:
http://www.rei.com/passport
and click on the State of Washington... (or your state of choice for REI does these great hikes all over the USA) Then click on Spokane. All these hikes are great and easy and fun to do with kids! there are also some great worksheets (See: bonus activities) to print for your family.
If you feel more adventurous... try these:
http://www.localhikes.com/MSA/MSA_7840.asp
http://www.trails.com/activity.aspx?area=15074
Into the Wilderness... Lesson One
Into the Wilderness
"In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. " Mathew Chapter 3
According to the dictionary, the wilderness is a land remaining in a basically wild, undisturbed by human activity. It's land that is left wild and uninhabited, you might say, in its natural condition. In general, it refers to untamed land.
Today, one may wonder if there are any true wilderness areas of land left. Every where you go there are mile markers, signs and paths to follow. It is as if every place is touched in some way by human hands. Still you will be amazed at what you see when you get out of the urban world and into nature. There’s a lot to see, a lot to learn about as you take some time to escape urbanism and take a trek into the wilderness around you.
In the scriptures the wilderness could be welcoming or desolate. It could be a place of herding animals, like a pasture, or a wooded area with a river, but it could also be a forsaken, harsh, desert region one without easily accessed water. It could be a place that's potentially hostile and destructive, or lush and refreshing, awe-inspiring, and spiritually renewing. One thing for certain, it is all ordained by God and under his ultimate jurisdictions and judgment. God, is God.
The key to survival in wilderness regions is preparation. Even in friendly terrain, one must have things like food and water or at least the skills to survive. They must also have knowledge of the territory and of possible dangers lurking there, or they will be easy prey for disaster. They must also know how to react to the unexpected and how to relate to their environment if they are to survive. Contrary to the video games we spend our time playing, sometimes you only have one chance to make the right decision and in survival situations people really do die. Mother nature is not always friendly or forgiving as a benevolent parent; the wild beasts are often territorial or hungry and looking for prey.
The wilderness of life is all around you. So travel wisely. Keep your ears and eyes open.
Proverbs 20 12
The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord God made even both”
What things should we watch and listen for when we are hiking?
wild animals
plants
insects
weather
other people hiking on the trail
dogs
horses on trails
mountain bikes
By the way, teach your kids not to pet dogs or horses without permission from both the owners and you. Some owners might say, "Yes, pet my my dog." but kids should be aware that even friendly dogs have teeth and they can bite. especially if easily excited about their surroundings.
Bathroom before heading on to trail whenever possible. There are often bathrooms along public hiking trails, but you will also need to prepare for nature calls of this sort. You may want to bring toilet tissue or other necessities with you.
ATTITUDE CHECK
Attitude when hiking...
Be considerate of others, make way for other hikers by moving to the side and letting them pass if they are faster than you are.
Children should mind the adults or youth leaders in your group with respect.
Stay together as a group, do not wander too far ahead, do not lag too far behind, or go off of the trail. If you decide to separate and hike as two groups be clear on a meeting point.
Pack out your trash.. clean up after yourself or others.
Think about what you are doing, do not be reckless. There are consequences to carelessness.
Do not trow rocks off cliffs or run on trails. Injuries do happen. BE a good observers so we do not miss the things God wants to show us about life, about this world he created, about us, or about God Himself.
On your first hike plan to learn about the plants and trees that grow where you will hike. Tell your hikers to observe and identify plants and trees as they hike. Challenge them to learn to be able to identify at least three different kinds of trees. (It is your choice of what they are.) Encourage them to learn more about trees, maybe a new one each hike, and soon they will know many.
You can do this by having them sketch some leaves they find and having them identify what the trees are later, or by introducing them to trees they should learn, and have them hunt for them on the hike. You can carry a tree identification book in your pack or have them take photos of the tree, or write a description in a journal, or make a leaf identification chart. You can subsequently challenge them and yourself to learn more plant identification skills with each progressing hike.
You will also want to be sure they know that there are some dangerous plants to be avoided. Plants you want to know and look out for here in the United States are poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. These plants are known to produce one of the most common allergic reactions, known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis, when people simply touch them. In order to avoid urushiol in the wilds, one must know what they look like. If you are hiking in a desert region, be sure to be able to identify cacti to avoid, such as Cholla, the jumping cactus.
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac grow almost everywhere in the United States, except for Hawaii, Alaska and desert areas. The most likely plant to come upon among the three is Poison Ivy. The general rule to help people avoid such plants is "Leaves of three, let it be!" In other words, do not touch it.
This is because Poison Ivy leaves are characterized by three (or sometimes five) serrated-edge, pointed leaflets. It grows as as a vine or free-standing plant in the East, Midwest, and South, but in the far northern and western US, it grows more as a shrub. Poison Oak is similar. It too has three pointy serrated leaves. The plants can be green or red, depending on the season. Sumac has more leaves, (seven to thirteen) and it is found mostly in the eastern US in bogs and swampy places.
Do some research, educate yourself and your kids and be able to identify these plants as well as know what to do to help someone who finds themselves with an urushiol rash. Urushiol is potent!
Some websites to check out are:
http://poisonivy.aesir.com/view
http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/skin_poison.html
http://www.arborday.org/kids/teachingYouth.cfm
http://www.csrnet.org/csrnet/Trees/treeid.html
"In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. " Mathew Chapter 3
According to the dictionary, the wilderness is a land remaining in a basically wild, undisturbed by human activity. It's land that is left wild and uninhabited, you might say, in its natural condition. In general, it refers to untamed land.
Today, one may wonder if there are any true wilderness areas of land left. Every where you go there are mile markers, signs and paths to follow. It is as if every place is touched in some way by human hands. Still you will be amazed at what you see when you get out of the urban world and into nature. There’s a lot to see, a lot to learn about as you take some time to escape urbanism and take a trek into the wilderness around you.
In the scriptures the wilderness could be welcoming or desolate. It could be a place of herding animals, like a pasture, or a wooded area with a river, but it could also be a forsaken, harsh, desert region one without easily accessed water. It could be a place that's potentially hostile and destructive, or lush and refreshing, awe-inspiring, and spiritually renewing. One thing for certain, it is all ordained by God and under his ultimate jurisdictions and judgment. God, is God.
The key to survival in wilderness regions is preparation. Even in friendly terrain, one must have things like food and water or at least the skills to survive. They must also have knowledge of the territory and of possible dangers lurking there, or they will be easy prey for disaster. They must also know how to react to the unexpected and how to relate to their environment if they are to survive. Contrary to the video games we spend our time playing, sometimes you only have one chance to make the right decision and in survival situations people really do die. Mother nature is not always friendly or forgiving as a benevolent parent; the wild beasts are often territorial or hungry and looking for prey.
The wilderness of life is all around you. So travel wisely. Keep your ears and eyes open.
Proverbs 20 12
The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the Lord God made even both”
What things should we watch and listen for when we are hiking?
wild animals
plants
insects
weather
other people hiking on the trail
dogs
horses on trails
mountain bikes
By the way, teach your kids not to pet dogs or horses without permission from both the owners and you. Some owners might say, "Yes, pet my my dog." but kids should be aware that even friendly dogs have teeth and they can bite. especially if easily excited about their surroundings.
Bathroom before heading on to trail whenever possible. There are often bathrooms along public hiking trails, but you will also need to prepare for nature calls of this sort. You may want to bring toilet tissue or other necessities with you.
ATTITUDE CHECK
Attitude when hiking...
Be considerate of others, make way for other hikers by moving to the side and letting them pass if they are faster than you are.
Children should mind the adults or youth leaders in your group with respect.
Stay together as a group, do not wander too far ahead, do not lag too far behind, or go off of the trail. If you decide to separate and hike as two groups be clear on a meeting point.
Pack out your trash.. clean up after yourself or others.
Think about what you are doing, do not be reckless. There are consequences to carelessness.
Do not trow rocks off cliffs or run on trails. Injuries do happen. BE a good observers so we do not miss the things God wants to show us about life, about this world he created, about us, or about God Himself.
On your first hike plan to learn about the plants and trees that grow where you will hike. Tell your hikers to observe and identify plants and trees as they hike. Challenge them to learn to be able to identify at least three different kinds of trees. (It is your choice of what they are.) Encourage them to learn more about trees, maybe a new one each hike, and soon they will know many.
You can do this by having them sketch some leaves they find and having them identify what the trees are later, or by introducing them to trees they should learn, and have them hunt for them on the hike. You can carry a tree identification book in your pack or have them take photos of the tree, or write a description in a journal, or make a leaf identification chart. You can subsequently challenge them and yourself to learn more plant identification skills with each progressing hike.
You will also want to be sure they know that there are some dangerous plants to be avoided. Plants you want to know and look out for here in the United States are poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. These plants are known to produce one of the most common allergic reactions, known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis, when people simply touch them. In order to avoid urushiol in the wilds, one must know what they look like. If you are hiking in a desert region, be sure to be able to identify cacti to avoid, such as Cholla, the jumping cactus.
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac grow almost everywhere in the United States, except for Hawaii, Alaska and desert areas. The most likely plant to come upon among the three is Poison Ivy. The general rule to help people avoid such plants is "Leaves of three, let it be!" In other words, do not touch it.
This is because Poison Ivy leaves are characterized by three (or sometimes five) serrated-edge, pointed leaflets. It grows as as a vine or free-standing plant in the East, Midwest, and South, but in the far northern and western US, it grows more as a shrub. Poison Oak is similar. It too has three pointy serrated leaves. The plants can be green or red, depending on the season. Sumac has more leaves, (seven to thirteen) and it is found mostly in the eastern US in bogs and swampy places.
Do some research, educate yourself and your kids and be able to identify these plants as well as know what to do to help someone who finds themselves with an urushiol rash. Urushiol is potent!
Some websites to check out are:
http://poisonivy.aesir.com/view
http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/skin_poison.html
http://www.arborday.org/kids/teachingYouth.cfm
http://www.csrnet.org/csrnet/Trees/treeid.html
Keeping a Journal of Your Hikes
Keeping a Journal of Your Hikes
Here are some ideas for things to write in your journal.
Date
Location of hike
Length of trail
Departure Time
Weather conditions
Names of hiking buddies.
New friends you meet, including names and contact information.
Any interesting or unique things that happened or things you saw.
Notes about things you took pictures of while hiking at this location.
Things that you would do differently next time you hike this trail.
NOTES
Are there other routes on this trail you might want to try?
(Sometimes there are short loops and long loops in an area)
What advice or perspective would you give to someone else who was planning to do this trail?
How many rests did you take? What was the time of your return to the trailhead.
What supplies do you need to replenish before your next hike?
Did God show you anything you do not want to forget? Did you have any special thoughts? (Write it down.)
What did you see? (Draw in your journal too!)
Here are some ideas for things to write in your journal.
Date
Location of hike
Length of trail
Departure Time
Weather conditions
Names of hiking buddies.
New friends you meet, including names and contact information.
Any interesting or unique things that happened or things you saw.
Notes about things you took pictures of while hiking at this location.
Things that you would do differently next time you hike this trail.
NOTES
Are there other routes on this trail you might want to try?
(Sometimes there are short loops and long loops in an area)
What advice or perspective would you give to someone else who was planning to do this trail?
How many rests did you take? What was the time of your return to the trailhead.
What supplies do you need to replenish before your next hike?
Did God show you anything you do not want to forget? Did you have any special thoughts? (Write it down.)
What did you see? (Draw in your journal too!)
Nature's Path... Lesson Two
Look Around You.
In Romans 1:19-23, the scripture says, what may be known about God is plain because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities -- his eternal power and divine nature -- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles."
Nature is wonderful, but God is not nature. God created nature, and by seeing nature, enjoying the natural world, we can better understand how awesome God really is. Christians are not to have a pantheistic view of God because God is not simply a force that drives the natural world. God is so much more than that! He is the Creator, the Sustainer and the one who set it all into motion, in other words, God is the mastermind behind it all and each thing is remarkable in it's own way.
Look at the trees and plants.
You have learned to identify some plants and trees, but while you are hiking, there are many other things to look for and look out for. You need to keep your ears and eyes, open and attentive to what is around you in your surroundings, pay attention to the path you are on. If you fail to to be alert, and to stay on the right path, you may get hurt or get stuck in the wild longer than you planned, even be unable to find your way home.
Just like someone could go on a hike and encounter dangers, there are dangers in the world we need to be able to identify and avoid. Just as someone could miss seeing cool stuff, as they are hiking, a person can miss seeing cool stuff in life, and just as you wouldn't know what trail to take without direction, or could get lost and not make it home, if you deviated from the right paths, a person can go through life lost in the wilds, and never know the way home, the way to heaven.
The Bible says that people need to know and hear the truth and make the decision to do the things that are right and good. But people often go though life doing what they please instead of what pleases God, and the do not know what pleases God, because they do not know God. They often want to invent a god of their own, one like them, of their own devise. The Bible tells us that we are slow to pay attention to the things of God, slow to listen to the prophets, and heed the warning signs. We have no idea where such ways will take us until it’s too late
Some people think that they need no one to tell them anything or correct their bad behavior when they are wrong. All the while, they do not think about the consequences and they have no idea where their misguided choices and thinking will take them, (hell) because blinded by sin, and rebellion to God they are looking at other things.
Jesus said, "Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
(Matthew 13:13-18)
One way to mitigate the dangers of hiking is to know what dangers their are and how to best respond in a threatening situation. While there are many things that could happen that would not be good, you do not have to be afraid, you just need to know what you are dealing with and what to do.
This week’s lesson is about animals that can be a threat or danger when hiking and how to respond.
Before reading head, test yourself:
What do you do when a moose is coming at you?
What do you do when a cougar is stalking you?
What if you spot a mother bear with cubs on a trail?
What if someone in your group gets stung by a bee?
How do you remove a tick without matches?
Think you know? Read on.
Animal Awareness
MOOSE
At least 1,000 moose are estimated to live in Washington. Almost all are in the northeastern counties of Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Spokane. A male moose, called a bull, can weigh between 850 and 1,100 pounds. Adult females, called cows, weigh between 600 and 800 pounds. These are large animals and encountering one who does not like your presence can be a big problem.
Breeding occurs in the fall and single or twin calves are usually born in June. Remember that adults will be protective of their young. you will want to know what actions to take if you encounter one of these enormous animals on the trail.
Keep in mind that where there are moose, particularly in calving season, there are probably black bears and cougars too for they are moose predators and calves are easy prey. If you live where there are grizzly bears and wolves, remember that they prey on moose calves too.
Most people like to see moose because they're so large and they really do not shy away from people as deer, appearing more docile or even curious. But something to remember about moose is that they are really… really big, and being as big as they are, they can be dangerous, especially if they charge. Most of the time a charge from a moose is simply a warning signal, telling the opponent to stay away, but a charging moose is still a charging moose and his action should be taken seriously. Even a moose calf, weighing in at 300 to 400 pounds is big enough to cause you some damage if they should run into you.
Hikers need to know that a moose that sees you and walks slowly towards you is not looking for you to pet him. This is a warning and he is warning you to keep away. If the moose has been fed before he may be looking for food, and a hungry moose is not something you want to mess with either. Moose often signal an attack by laying its ears straight back and stomping the ground. The hairs on their back raise up and then they will start swinging their head in your direction. If you see it licking its lips, he is telling you that you are way too close for his comfort.
If this occurs, back off. Look for the nearest tree, fence, building or other obstruction to hide behind. Unlike other face to face situations with animals, like cougars, bears or dogs, it's usually a good idea to run from a moose. the reason is that a moose, usually won't chase you very far. You can run around a tree or other obstacle faster than a moose can.
If for some reason a moose knocks you down, curl up in a ball, protect your head with your arms and hands, and hold still until you know what the moose will do next. Don't move or try to get up until the moose moves a safe distance away.
BEAR
Look for bear signs when hiking. Get to know what their droppings, tracks, digging, claw and bite marks on trees look like. When you are hiking, the further away from the bear you are the better. This is because bears are unpredictable. If you do encounter a bear, never show fear by screaming, running or yelling. Simply say what you have to say to those around you in a low tone of voice and slowly back away. Bears can run as fast as horses do, you cannot; so do not run from them. Also do not climb a tree to get away from them. Grizzly and black bears know very well how to climb trees.
Wondering how you would not SHOW FEAR in such a situation as this? It might be hard, but remember, God put a fear of man into the animals and He is watching over us. Talk in low tone of voice, Keep your eye on the animal without starring into his eyes, and slowly back away. Bear Spray is helpful to have when you are hiking where bears are possibly encounter. They do not always work, but they can be a good last resort.
Bears have a personal space and chances are, you are in it if you see one. A bear will defend his space and they do not like to be surprised by intruders, so as you are hiking in known bear country, talking loudly, sing songs, or wear a bell so that you do not surprise a bear. Also, never attempt to feed a wild bear.
Also take note that bears are attracted by smells and they can smell your tasty snacks real well. Garbage attracts them too. Airtight food containers help keep scents down, and if you are camping, garbage should be sealed too so that they do not get a scent of it.
Keep your distance from bears. Avoid up close contact with them. If you want to take a picture, of a bear that you do see, use a telephoto lens instead of moving closer.
If you have a dog with you, keep your dog by your side and quiet, keep your dog from barking. Bears hate dogs and may be incited to attack. If possible leave your dog at home. When camping overnight in bear country, make sure to hang anything edible in a tree away from your tent at least 10 feet above the ground and 5 feet away from the tree trunk. When you are camping you never prepare store or eat food in your tent.
COUGARS
Cougars are also called mountain lions, puma or panther and are known to be in the wilds of Spokane. They eat mostly deer, although they will kill and eat wild sheep, elk, rabbits, raccoons, beaver and fowl and they have been known to go after livestock. They are most active at dusk and dawn, but can be seen anytime day or night, no matter the season. Carry a strong tall hiking stick that can be used as a weapon, if you are in cougar country.
Cougars are predators and are more likely to attack smaller children than adults. This is because children have higher voices and move fast like rabbits or other easy, (that is , what cougars think of as easy) prey. It's a really good idea to keep children close by and under the immediate control of an adult whenever you are hiking. Teach your hikers the importance of staying with the group.
Here is a good hiking practice:
Always be in eyesight range of the people ahead and behind you. If you cannot see someone, find out why. Stay together and watch out for each other on the trails. People could fall down a cliff, or perhaps meet up with an unexpected problem, and other people in your group would never know it if you are separated by a lot of distance. Never hike alone, groups offer more protection.
Try not to surprise a cougar, be noisy when hiking. If you do encounter a cougar, stay calm, and whatever you do, do not run. Stay calm, and never turn your back on a cougar. If there are children with you, pick them up as quickly as possible and look really… really big. Make sure you do not back the animal into a corner and he has a means of getting away from you.
If he comes towards you, throw rocks, speak loudly and fight back. With cougars, you want them to know you are a threat, not perceive you to be prey. Talk with confidence and remain upright, even use a branch or stick to make yourself look big and threatening. Remember that God put a fear of man into the animals. Use that top your advantage with a cougar.
COYOTES
Coyotes and other wild dogs, are generally fearful of humans, but can become bold or aggressive if they begin to associate humans with food. They're mainly active at dusk and dawn, but may be encountered at any time.
If you are threatened by a coyote, make yourself look bigger by raining your arms, holding a backpack over your head. Make loud noises.. yell at the dog, bang things together. Back away slowly while facing the coyote if it doesn't run away, but do not stare directly at it.
Don't turn your back or run away and fight back if the coyote attacks you. You’ve got a better chance of being hit by lightning than being attacked by a coyote, but still keep children and pets close to you while hiking. If you see a coyote without using binoculars, you can be certain he's already seen you.
Do not approach strange dogs at all, this means, and even someone else’s pet on a leash.
If a dog threatens you, stand very still and try to be very calm.
If the dog comes to sniff you, let it.
If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.
If a dog attacks, give it anything that may distract it from biting you.
If you fall or are knocked down, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Do not scream or roll around.
Any time a warm-blooded animal (such as a dog, cat, skunk, fox, bat, etc) bites a person, there is a danger that the animal may be infected with rabies. If you or someone with you is bitten, take the following precautions:
Immediately and thoroughly wash the wound with plenty of soap and warm water. The idea is to remove as much dirt and saliva—and therefore, bacteria—as possible. It may hurt to scrub a wound, but an infection will hurt a lot more so scrub it well and run water over it for several minutes to make sure it is clean and all soap is rinsed out. Follow the washing with an antiseptic solution, such as iodine or other disinfectant, but always wash with soap and water first. Apply antibiotic ointment and cover the wound with gauze or a bandage.
INSECTS
Bees and Wasps
Do not wear any sweet smelling fragrances often found in after-shaves, colognes and perfume when you are hiking. Try bug repellent instead. Perfume will often attract flies, bees, and other insects that you really do not want to attract. Wear light colored clothing too. Looking like a brightly colored flower can attract bees.
Bees like sweet things, so they're drawn to soft drink cans. 'BE careful when you take a drink from a container with sweet stuff in it because it's not unusual for a bee to get inside and then sting someone on the lips or inside the mouth. Keep soda cans covered, or use bottles or thermoses that have caps, and replace the cap immediately after each drink.
Leave beehives and wasps nests alone. This would include ant nests and spider webs as well.
Bees will mostly attack when either trapped or agitated. Close any opening in your clothes that could trap bees between your skin and your clothing. If you are allergic bring an allergy kit with you. Tell the people in your group too. Be sure to keep up on the expiration date on your medicine.
If you are stung, immediately remove the stinger. Using scraping motion with a needle or knife , simply scrape the stinger out by moving it back, not forward. Avoid handling the stinger with your hands, as this will probably squeeze more venom into your skin. Use a cool towel or ice, (not directly on the skin) to help ease the pain.
Carry insect sting ointment in your first aid kit. A dab of a bit of household ammonia from a cotton pad works well to relieve pain. There are also products you can carry with you for this purpose. Also antihistamines, such as Benadryl can help relieve inflammation, itching and allergic reaction.
People who receive multiple bee stings or who are allergic to bee stings can go into anaphylactic shock, which could cause swelling, obstructing the airways. Remove the stingers and use antihistamine medication as soon as possible.
Ticks
One more unpleasantly of hiking is the tick. They have six legs if they are young and eight when they are mature. the size and appearance depend on the kind of tick they are. They feed on blood.
Physical contact is the only method of transportation for ticks from one person or animal to another as ticks do not jump or fly. They may drop from a tree or branch on to a host, but if you stay on groomed trails you are less likely to have a tick encounter than if you go off into the bruch. Be especially wary of ticks in the winter and spring months, when they are most prevalent.
Tick Protection:
Wear a hat, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, tucked into your pants.
Avoid walking through brush and tall grasses.
Spray exposed body areas with tick repellent (DEET) but avoid using repeated applications of on children. The product will repel ticks and it is said to be safe when used according to directions, but isn't meant for long-term (every day) use. It's also important to keep this product away from eyes and mouth.
Use the buddy system and search each other and yourself for ticks after walking in wooded areas. Pay special attention to finding them and remove any ticks you find right away. An adult tick can wander around the body looking for just the right place, usually a place with hair, for several hours before he finds a place to bite, be sure to check everywhere, and do not forget, under the arms and behind the ears.
The best way to remove a tick is by grasping it as close to your skin as possible, then pulling it gently and slowly straight out, without twisting or jerking it. Repeat, do not twist or jerk. A tweezers works so put that in your day pack. The use of organic solvents or oils to suffocate ticks and make them come out, or burning the tick with a match, should be avoided. They do not work and may risk having the tick to release more of its saliva into your bloodstream, so just pull the little sucker out. Be sure to pull the mouth parts out with the tweezers as you do not want to risk infection from having a foreign element stuck under the skin.
Ticks are bad because some, not all, of these little bloodsucking creatures carry diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The best thing you can do is take precautions, and most importantly, know what ticks look like so that you can beat them at their game. If you find a tick on you and he's actually biting into your skin (not just crawling around), you should remove the tick, and take it to your doctor for examination to see if it is carrying Lyme disease.
Take a shower after outdoor activity and put clothes in the dryer if you think you have been around ticks. The dryer heat will kill ticks that may be in your clothes.
In Romans 1:19-23, the scripture says, what may be known about God is plain because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities -- his eternal power and divine nature -- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles."
Nature is wonderful, but God is not nature. God created nature, and by seeing nature, enjoying the natural world, we can better understand how awesome God really is. Christians are not to have a pantheistic view of God because God is not simply a force that drives the natural world. God is so much more than that! He is the Creator, the Sustainer and the one who set it all into motion, in other words, God is the mastermind behind it all and each thing is remarkable in it's own way.
Look at the trees and plants.
You have learned to identify some plants and trees, but while you are hiking, there are many other things to look for and look out for. You need to keep your ears and eyes, open and attentive to what is around you in your surroundings, pay attention to the path you are on. If you fail to to be alert, and to stay on the right path, you may get hurt or get stuck in the wild longer than you planned, even be unable to find your way home.
Just like someone could go on a hike and encounter dangers, there are dangers in the world we need to be able to identify and avoid. Just as someone could miss seeing cool stuff, as they are hiking, a person can miss seeing cool stuff in life, and just as you wouldn't know what trail to take without direction, or could get lost and not make it home, if you deviated from the right paths, a person can go through life lost in the wilds, and never know the way home, the way to heaven.
The Bible says that people need to know and hear the truth and make the decision to do the things that are right and good. But people often go though life doing what they please instead of what pleases God, and the do not know what pleases God, because they do not know God. They often want to invent a god of their own, one like them, of their own devise. The Bible tells us that we are slow to pay attention to the things of God, slow to listen to the prophets, and heed the warning signs. We have no idea where such ways will take us until it’s too late
Some people think that they need no one to tell them anything or correct their bad behavior when they are wrong. All the while, they do not think about the consequences and they have no idea where their misguided choices and thinking will take them, (hell) because blinded by sin, and rebellion to God they are looking at other things.
Jesus said, "Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
(Matthew 13:13-18)
One way to mitigate the dangers of hiking is to know what dangers their are and how to best respond in a threatening situation. While there are many things that could happen that would not be good, you do not have to be afraid, you just need to know what you are dealing with and what to do.
This week’s lesson is about animals that can be a threat or danger when hiking and how to respond.
Before reading head, test yourself:
What do you do when a moose is coming at you?
What do you do when a cougar is stalking you?
What if you spot a mother bear with cubs on a trail?
What if someone in your group gets stung by a bee?
How do you remove a tick without matches?
Think you know? Read on.
Animal Awareness
MOOSE
At least 1,000 moose are estimated to live in Washington. Almost all are in the northeastern counties of Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Spokane. A male moose, called a bull, can weigh between 850 and 1,100 pounds. Adult females, called cows, weigh between 600 and 800 pounds. These are large animals and encountering one who does not like your presence can be a big problem.
Breeding occurs in the fall and single or twin calves are usually born in June. Remember that adults will be protective of their young. you will want to know what actions to take if you encounter one of these enormous animals on the trail.
Keep in mind that where there are moose, particularly in calving season, there are probably black bears and cougars too for they are moose predators and calves are easy prey. If you live where there are grizzly bears and wolves, remember that they prey on moose calves too.
Most people like to see moose because they're so large and they really do not shy away from people as deer, appearing more docile or even curious. But something to remember about moose is that they are really… really big, and being as big as they are, they can be dangerous, especially if they charge. Most of the time a charge from a moose is simply a warning signal, telling the opponent to stay away, but a charging moose is still a charging moose and his action should be taken seriously. Even a moose calf, weighing in at 300 to 400 pounds is big enough to cause you some damage if they should run into you.
Hikers need to know that a moose that sees you and walks slowly towards you is not looking for you to pet him. This is a warning and he is warning you to keep away. If the moose has been fed before he may be looking for food, and a hungry moose is not something you want to mess with either. Moose often signal an attack by laying its ears straight back and stomping the ground. The hairs on their back raise up and then they will start swinging their head in your direction. If you see it licking its lips, he is telling you that you are way too close for his comfort.
If this occurs, back off. Look for the nearest tree, fence, building or other obstruction to hide behind. Unlike other face to face situations with animals, like cougars, bears or dogs, it's usually a good idea to run from a moose. the reason is that a moose, usually won't chase you very far. You can run around a tree or other obstacle faster than a moose can.
If for some reason a moose knocks you down, curl up in a ball, protect your head with your arms and hands, and hold still until you know what the moose will do next. Don't move or try to get up until the moose moves a safe distance away.
BEAR
Look for bear signs when hiking. Get to know what their droppings, tracks, digging, claw and bite marks on trees look like. When you are hiking, the further away from the bear you are the better. This is because bears are unpredictable. If you do encounter a bear, never show fear by screaming, running or yelling. Simply say what you have to say to those around you in a low tone of voice and slowly back away. Bears can run as fast as horses do, you cannot; so do not run from them. Also do not climb a tree to get away from them. Grizzly and black bears know very well how to climb trees.
Wondering how you would not SHOW FEAR in such a situation as this? It might be hard, but remember, God put a fear of man into the animals and He is watching over us. Talk in low tone of voice, Keep your eye on the animal without starring into his eyes, and slowly back away. Bear Spray is helpful to have when you are hiking where bears are possibly encounter. They do not always work, but they can be a good last resort.
Bears have a personal space and chances are, you are in it if you see one. A bear will defend his space and they do not like to be surprised by intruders, so as you are hiking in known bear country, talking loudly, sing songs, or wear a bell so that you do not surprise a bear. Also, never attempt to feed a wild bear.
Also take note that bears are attracted by smells and they can smell your tasty snacks real well. Garbage attracts them too. Airtight food containers help keep scents down, and if you are camping, garbage should be sealed too so that they do not get a scent of it.
Keep your distance from bears. Avoid up close contact with them. If you want to take a picture, of a bear that you do see, use a telephoto lens instead of moving closer.
If you have a dog with you, keep your dog by your side and quiet, keep your dog from barking. Bears hate dogs and may be incited to attack. If possible leave your dog at home. When camping overnight in bear country, make sure to hang anything edible in a tree away from your tent at least 10 feet above the ground and 5 feet away from the tree trunk. When you are camping you never prepare store or eat food in your tent.
COUGARS
Cougars are also called mountain lions, puma or panther and are known to be in the wilds of Spokane. They eat mostly deer, although they will kill and eat wild sheep, elk, rabbits, raccoons, beaver and fowl and they have been known to go after livestock. They are most active at dusk and dawn, but can be seen anytime day or night, no matter the season. Carry a strong tall hiking stick that can be used as a weapon, if you are in cougar country.
Cougars are predators and are more likely to attack smaller children than adults. This is because children have higher voices and move fast like rabbits or other easy, (that is , what cougars think of as easy) prey. It's a really good idea to keep children close by and under the immediate control of an adult whenever you are hiking. Teach your hikers the importance of staying with the group.
Here is a good hiking practice:
Always be in eyesight range of the people ahead and behind you. If you cannot see someone, find out why. Stay together and watch out for each other on the trails. People could fall down a cliff, or perhaps meet up with an unexpected problem, and other people in your group would never know it if you are separated by a lot of distance. Never hike alone, groups offer more protection.
Try not to surprise a cougar, be noisy when hiking. If you do encounter a cougar, stay calm, and whatever you do, do not run. Stay calm, and never turn your back on a cougar. If there are children with you, pick them up as quickly as possible and look really… really big. Make sure you do not back the animal into a corner and he has a means of getting away from you.
If he comes towards you, throw rocks, speak loudly and fight back. With cougars, you want them to know you are a threat, not perceive you to be prey. Talk with confidence and remain upright, even use a branch or stick to make yourself look big and threatening. Remember that God put a fear of man into the animals. Use that top your advantage with a cougar.
COYOTES
Coyotes and other wild dogs, are generally fearful of humans, but can become bold or aggressive if they begin to associate humans with food. They're mainly active at dusk and dawn, but may be encountered at any time.
If you are threatened by a coyote, make yourself look bigger by raining your arms, holding a backpack over your head. Make loud noises.. yell at the dog, bang things together. Back away slowly while facing the coyote if it doesn't run away, but do not stare directly at it.
Don't turn your back or run away and fight back if the coyote attacks you. You’ve got a better chance of being hit by lightning than being attacked by a coyote, but still keep children and pets close to you while hiking. If you see a coyote without using binoculars, you can be certain he's already seen you.
Do not approach strange dogs at all, this means, and even someone else’s pet on a leash.
If a dog threatens you, stand very still and try to be very calm.
If the dog comes to sniff you, let it.
If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly.
If a dog attacks, give it anything that may distract it from biting you.
If you fall or are knocked down, curl into a ball with your hands over your head and neck. Do not scream or roll around.
Any time a warm-blooded animal (such as a dog, cat, skunk, fox, bat, etc) bites a person, there is a danger that the animal may be infected with rabies. If you or someone with you is bitten, take the following precautions:
Immediately and thoroughly wash the wound with plenty of soap and warm water. The idea is to remove as much dirt and saliva—and therefore, bacteria—as possible. It may hurt to scrub a wound, but an infection will hurt a lot more so scrub it well and run water over it for several minutes to make sure it is clean and all soap is rinsed out. Follow the washing with an antiseptic solution, such as iodine or other disinfectant, but always wash with soap and water first. Apply antibiotic ointment and cover the wound with gauze or a bandage.
INSECTS
Bees and Wasps
Do not wear any sweet smelling fragrances often found in after-shaves, colognes and perfume when you are hiking. Try bug repellent instead. Perfume will often attract flies, bees, and other insects that you really do not want to attract. Wear light colored clothing too. Looking like a brightly colored flower can attract bees.
Bees like sweet things, so they're drawn to soft drink cans. 'BE careful when you take a drink from a container with sweet stuff in it because it's not unusual for a bee to get inside and then sting someone on the lips or inside the mouth. Keep soda cans covered, or use bottles or thermoses that have caps, and replace the cap immediately after each drink.
Leave beehives and wasps nests alone. This would include ant nests and spider webs as well.
Bees will mostly attack when either trapped or agitated. Close any opening in your clothes that could trap bees between your skin and your clothing. If you are allergic bring an allergy kit with you. Tell the people in your group too. Be sure to keep up on the expiration date on your medicine.
If you are stung, immediately remove the stinger. Using scraping motion with a needle or knife , simply scrape the stinger out by moving it back, not forward. Avoid handling the stinger with your hands, as this will probably squeeze more venom into your skin. Use a cool towel or ice, (not directly on the skin) to help ease the pain.
Carry insect sting ointment in your first aid kit. A dab of a bit of household ammonia from a cotton pad works well to relieve pain. There are also products you can carry with you for this purpose. Also antihistamines, such as Benadryl can help relieve inflammation, itching and allergic reaction.
People who receive multiple bee stings or who are allergic to bee stings can go into anaphylactic shock, which could cause swelling, obstructing the airways. Remove the stingers and use antihistamine medication as soon as possible.
Ticks
One more unpleasantly of hiking is the tick. They have six legs if they are young and eight when they are mature. the size and appearance depend on the kind of tick they are. They feed on blood.
Physical contact is the only method of transportation for ticks from one person or animal to another as ticks do not jump or fly. They may drop from a tree or branch on to a host, but if you stay on groomed trails you are less likely to have a tick encounter than if you go off into the bruch. Be especially wary of ticks in the winter and spring months, when they are most prevalent.
Tick Protection:
Wear a hat, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, tucked into your pants.
Avoid walking through brush and tall grasses.
Spray exposed body areas with tick repellent (DEET) but avoid using repeated applications of on children. The product will repel ticks and it is said to be safe when used according to directions, but isn't meant for long-term (every day) use. It's also important to keep this product away from eyes and mouth.
Use the buddy system and search each other and yourself for ticks after walking in wooded areas. Pay special attention to finding them and remove any ticks you find right away. An adult tick can wander around the body looking for just the right place, usually a place with hair, for several hours before he finds a place to bite, be sure to check everywhere, and do not forget, under the arms and behind the ears.
The best way to remove a tick is by grasping it as close to your skin as possible, then pulling it gently and slowly straight out, without twisting or jerking it. Repeat, do not twist or jerk. A tweezers works so put that in your day pack. The use of organic solvents or oils to suffocate ticks and make them come out, or burning the tick with a match, should be avoided. They do not work and may risk having the tick to release more of its saliva into your bloodstream, so just pull the little sucker out. Be sure to pull the mouth parts out with the tweezers as you do not want to risk infection from having a foreign element stuck under the skin.
Ticks are bad because some, not all, of these little bloodsucking creatures carry diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The best thing you can do is take precautions, and most importantly, know what ticks look like so that you can beat them at their game. If you find a tick on you and he's actually biting into your skin (not just crawling around), you should remove the tick, and take it to your doctor for examination to see if it is carrying Lyme disease.
Take a shower after outdoor activity and put clothes in the dryer if you think you have been around ticks. The dryer heat will kill ticks that may be in your clothes.
Photography Scavenger Hunt
Take your camera hiking with you and see if you can find and photograph:
different animal tracks
a special blossom, a flower collection
clouds that make a recognizable shape
something green
something really old
something new
A fork in the road
an interesting sign
something bigger than you are
something that is out of place
something pink
evidence of humans
an insect
something from a frog's perspective
an autumn leaf
something funny
a peaceful serene spot
something that makes you sad
something very, very small
something you love
something you have never seen before
a photo with just a splash of color
sunlight coming through trees
a tree with an interesting shape
a naturally occurring item that has the shape of a letter of the alphabet
a special blossom, a flower collection
clouds that make a recognizable shape
something green
something really old
something new
A fork in the road
an interesting sign
something bigger than you are
something that is out of place
something pink
evidence of humans
an insect
something from a frog's perspective
an autumn leaf
something funny
a peaceful serene spot
something that makes you sad
something very, very small
something you love
something you have never seen before
a photo with just a splash of color
sunlight coming through trees
a tree with an interesting shape
a naturally occurring item that has the shape of a letter of the alphabet
Snakes and Scorpions Lesson Three
"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."
Jesus as recorded in Luke 10:19
First, A Review
What are some things we have learned so far?
We have so far learned to identify tree and some poisonous plants. We have learned some things to do when we encounter dangerous situations with animals. It is sad to think that we cannot live in a place where things are perfect, where animals are our friends, and every plant and tree is good and good for food, but since the fall, the earth has been filled with difficulty, grave dangers and even death. It's funny hos knowledge of danger, has a tendency to make us fear.
Is fear a bad thing or a good thing?
Fear is a natural response to perceived danger.
The scripture says, “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Maybe you wonder, as I do, "Why would it be the beginning of wisdom to fear God? Fear God? What is that about? Why fear God?" Perhaps the first question is: "What or who is God that he should be feared?"
God is an eternally existing, sovereign, Being who created all things, and who is the ultimate lawgiver and judge of all things. and God, is light, in his is no darkness at all. He is perfect and there is sin in Him. He is also the judge or what is right and wrong and he has pronounced judgment on evil, that is why is makes us wiser when we fear him. It helps us do the things he declares are right.\, and then when we see we are wrong, we will ask him to forgive us, and he will, because of what Jesus has done on our behalf.
Scripture teaches us that it was Jesus who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: and that it is by his stripes that we are healed, (1 Peter 2:24)
When we believe in Jesus, we have friendship with God. Because we have r\feared God and repented, received Jesus Christ as Savior, we do not need to fear the things the way we would if we did not know God or his promise of salvation to us in Christ. God is with us and we are sealed by the power of his Holy Spirit. Nothing can take us out of JEsus' hands and God has given us the hope of eternal life. But we must know God. We must walk in the truth, know it and act upon it.
1 John 2: 23-25 reads, "No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us -- even eternal life.
It is really important that we learn our lessons well and that we act up the the things we know to be true and right and good.
Hos 4:6 (NIV) says, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge."
Think about this:
If you didn’t know what poison ivy looked like what could happen to you?
If you knew what poison ivy looked like, and could spot it right away… what difference would it make?
If you got into poison ivy and knew how to wash it off, or knew that an oatmeal bath to sooth the rash would help, would you do it?
Prov 19:2 (NIV) It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way. (Zealous means marked by active interest and enthusiasm;)
Rom 10:2 (NIV) For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge.
People can be excited about God, be zealous for God and spiritual things, but miss some really important things because they are too busy thinking they know everything. We who would be the people of God ,must take the time to gain wisdom from God by reading his Word and looking around to apply what heaven truths to our lives in this world.
Apply this to hiking....
We can be so excited about hiking that we just go off and hike without planning and preparing or learning about the land and the dangers there could be. We could end up being really thirsty (because we didn’t take time to prepare a water bottle and there is no fresh water in the place we find ourselves. We could end up sunburned because we didn’t stop and think about how long we had spent in the sunshine without a covering. We could find ourselves or a friend experiencing hypothermia because we didn’t take precautions in case we encountered rain and cold. There are things we need to prepare for and things we need to know.
Without knowledge of poison ivy we could end up setting up a tent right on top of it because we thought it looked soft and cushy, having no idea it would poison us, or worse, use it for toilet paper in the wild. But once we are armed with knowledge about those things, we can overcome many obstacles because we know how to avoid the entrapment of danger and are prepared to act on what we know.
More Review
If you encounter a bear, what should you do?
Never show fear. Talk in a low tone of voice and slowly back away.
How can you spot an area where a cougar is residing?
Be alert when hiking, watch for cougar scat and tracks.
If you see a cougar, what should you do?
Try not to surprise the cougar. Stay calm, do not run, and never turn your back on a cougar. Pick up little children and make yourself look big. Throwing rocks can also help. If attacked Speak loudly and fight back, even use your hiking stick to beat him away.
If you are watching a moose lick his lips, what does that mean?
If you see it licking its lips you are far too close! Back off. Look for the nearest tree, fence, building or other obstruction to hide behind. Unlike with cougars, bears or even dogs, it's usually a good idea to run from a moose because it won't chase you very far. You can run around a tree or other obstacle faster than a moose can.
If a moose knocks you down, should you get up and run?
If a moose knocks you down, it may start stomping and kicking. Curl up in a ball, protect your head with your arms and hands, and hold still. Don't move or try to get up until the moose moves a safe distance away,
What do you do if you see a snake?
(Trick Question!) This is what we will learn this lesson.
SNAKES
If you see a snake, back away and walk around it. Snakes will not pursue you. They are not aggressive unless they feel attacked and cornered.
Poisonous snakes that are found in the US are the Rattlesnake, the Copperhead, the Cottonmouth Water Moccasin and the Coral Snake. Know what they look like. For some great photos of venomous snakes, see:
http://www.pestproducts.com/snake_pictures.htm
In Spokane, the most likely venoumous snake you may encounter is a rattler. You need to know that a rattlesnake will coil into a defensive posture if it cannot escape by crawling away. If you remain too close, the rattlesnake will usually warn you with its distinctive rattle. (Another reason to listen to your surroundings.) The snake's last defensive move is to strike and bite when threaten, so the key is to leave the snake alone. The truth is, they want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.
You are most likely to encounter a snake underneath rocks and fallen tree limbs, in tall grass, and even in ponds, as many snakes, the garter snakes in particular, feed on tadpoles, adult frogs, and invertebrates found in and around ponds. When you are in snake territory, step on rocks and limbs instead of straight over them. It alerts the snake, (if there is one) to your presence, and they usually leave instead of striking. Another thing you can do is to wear hiking boots. Snakes are seldom encountered on trails, so stay on marked pathways where you can see what is ahead. When you off the trail, use care when picking up rocks or firewood.
Do not poke, tease or corner a snake. Besides being dangerous, it's rather impolite behvaior from one who is just passing through the snakes personal territory.
If you do get bitten
Be sure to prevent a second bite or a second snake bite victim. Snakes can continue to bite and inject venom with successive bites until they run out of venom. Note the type of snake that bit you if you can, and make plans to head for the nearest hospital unless you know for absolute surety that the snake that bit was not venomous. Inspect the wound and apply wound care.
It might comfort you to know that only 40 percent of snake bite victims will be given antivenom serum, but if you do need it, it is best administered within 6 hours after a highly venomous bite. Also, snakes, even dangerous ones like the diamondback, don't always release venom when they bite. Sometimes snakes may release too small an amount to pose a life threatening hazard.
Even so, even a bite from a nonvenomous snake requires good wound care. Like any animal bite, there is a risk of infection. Like other foreign substances that enter into the body, there can be an allergic reaction to a snake bite in some people.
Wound Care
To care for the wound, wash it with large amounts of soap and water, inspecting the wound for broken snake teeth or dirt. Then immobilize the bitten area and keep it lower than the heart. Remove constricting items on the victim, such as rings or other jewelry, which could cut off blood flow if the bite area swells. The snake bite victim would do well to have a tetanus booster if he or she has not had one within 5 years
What not to do:
Do not apply ice or any other type of cooling on the bite. Research has shown this to be potentially harmful.
Do not apply a tourniquet. (A tourniquet is a tightly-compressed bandage used to stop bleeding by stopping the flow of blood through a large artery in a limb.) Doing this would cut the blood flow completely and may result in loss of the affected limb.
Don not put any incisions in the wound. Do not suck the venom out. It is not useful if these things are done wrong and it may even cause more injury. Such measures have not been proven useful, except for maybe in the movies.
Spider Bites and Scorpion Stings
While painful, these are rarely deadly. Treat like snake bites. Try to identify the culprit, wash the site with lots of soap and water and seek medical attention!
Jesus as recorded in Luke 10:19
First, A Review
What are some things we have learned so far?
We have so far learned to identify tree and some poisonous plants. We have learned some things to do when we encounter dangerous situations with animals. It is sad to think that we cannot live in a place where things are perfect, where animals are our friends, and every plant and tree is good and good for food, but since the fall, the earth has been filled with difficulty, grave dangers and even death. It's funny hos knowledge of danger, has a tendency to make us fear.
Is fear a bad thing or a good thing?
Fear is a natural response to perceived danger.
The scripture says, “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Maybe you wonder, as I do, "Why would it be the beginning of wisdom to fear God? Fear God? What is that about? Why fear God?" Perhaps the first question is: "What or who is God that he should be feared?"
God is an eternally existing, sovereign, Being who created all things, and who is the ultimate lawgiver and judge of all things. and God, is light, in his is no darkness at all. He is perfect and there is sin in Him. He is also the judge or what is right and wrong and he has pronounced judgment on evil, that is why is makes us wiser when we fear him. It helps us do the things he declares are right.\, and then when we see we are wrong, we will ask him to forgive us, and he will, because of what Jesus has done on our behalf.
Scripture teaches us that it was Jesus who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: and that it is by his stripes that we are healed, (1 Peter 2:24)
When we believe in Jesus, we have friendship with God. Because we have r\feared God and repented, received Jesus Christ as Savior, we do not need to fear the things the way we would if we did not know God or his promise of salvation to us in Christ. God is with us and we are sealed by the power of his Holy Spirit. Nothing can take us out of JEsus' hands and God has given us the hope of eternal life. But we must know God. We must walk in the truth, know it and act upon it.
1 John 2: 23-25 reads, "No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us -- even eternal life.
It is really important that we learn our lessons well and that we act up the the things we know to be true and right and good.
Hos 4:6 (NIV) says, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge."
Think about this:
If you didn’t know what poison ivy looked like what could happen to you?
If you knew what poison ivy looked like, and could spot it right away… what difference would it make?
If you got into poison ivy and knew how to wash it off, or knew that an oatmeal bath to sooth the rash would help, would you do it?
Prov 19:2 (NIV) It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way. (Zealous means marked by active interest and enthusiasm;)
Rom 10:2 (NIV) For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge.
People can be excited about God, be zealous for God and spiritual things, but miss some really important things because they are too busy thinking they know everything. We who would be the people of God ,must take the time to gain wisdom from God by reading his Word and looking around to apply what heaven truths to our lives in this world.
Apply this to hiking....
We can be so excited about hiking that we just go off and hike without planning and preparing or learning about the land and the dangers there could be. We could end up being really thirsty (because we didn’t take time to prepare a water bottle and there is no fresh water in the place we find ourselves. We could end up sunburned because we didn’t stop and think about how long we had spent in the sunshine without a covering. We could find ourselves or a friend experiencing hypothermia because we didn’t take precautions in case we encountered rain and cold. There are things we need to prepare for and things we need to know.
Without knowledge of poison ivy we could end up setting up a tent right on top of it because we thought it looked soft and cushy, having no idea it would poison us, or worse, use it for toilet paper in the wild. But once we are armed with knowledge about those things, we can overcome many obstacles because we know how to avoid the entrapment of danger and are prepared to act on what we know.
More Review
If you encounter a bear, what should you do?
Never show fear. Talk in a low tone of voice and slowly back away.
How can you spot an area where a cougar is residing?
Be alert when hiking, watch for cougar scat and tracks.
If you see a cougar, what should you do?
Try not to surprise the cougar. Stay calm, do not run, and never turn your back on a cougar. Pick up little children and make yourself look big. Throwing rocks can also help. If attacked Speak loudly and fight back, even use your hiking stick to beat him away.
If you are watching a moose lick his lips, what does that mean?
If you see it licking its lips you are far too close! Back off. Look for the nearest tree, fence, building or other obstruction to hide behind. Unlike with cougars, bears or even dogs, it's usually a good idea to run from a moose because it won't chase you very far. You can run around a tree or other obstacle faster than a moose can.
If a moose knocks you down, should you get up and run?
If a moose knocks you down, it may start stomping and kicking. Curl up in a ball, protect your head with your arms and hands, and hold still. Don't move or try to get up until the moose moves a safe distance away,
What do you do if you see a snake?
(Trick Question!) This is what we will learn this lesson.
SNAKES
If you see a snake, back away and walk around it. Snakes will not pursue you. They are not aggressive unless they feel attacked and cornered.
Poisonous snakes that are found in the US are the Rattlesnake, the Copperhead, the Cottonmouth Water Moccasin and the Coral Snake. Know what they look like. For some great photos of venomous snakes, see:
http://www.pestproducts.com/snake_pictures.htm
In Spokane, the most likely venoumous snake you may encounter is a rattler. You need to know that a rattlesnake will coil into a defensive posture if it cannot escape by crawling away. If you remain too close, the rattlesnake will usually warn you with its distinctive rattle. (Another reason to listen to your surroundings.) The snake's last defensive move is to strike and bite when threaten, so the key is to leave the snake alone. The truth is, they want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.
You are most likely to encounter a snake underneath rocks and fallen tree limbs, in tall grass, and even in ponds, as many snakes, the garter snakes in particular, feed on tadpoles, adult frogs, and invertebrates found in and around ponds. When you are in snake territory, step on rocks and limbs instead of straight over them. It alerts the snake, (if there is one) to your presence, and they usually leave instead of striking. Another thing you can do is to wear hiking boots. Snakes are seldom encountered on trails, so stay on marked pathways where you can see what is ahead. When you off the trail, use care when picking up rocks or firewood.
Do not poke, tease or corner a snake. Besides being dangerous, it's rather impolite behvaior from one who is just passing through the snakes personal territory.
If you do get bitten
Be sure to prevent a second bite or a second snake bite victim. Snakes can continue to bite and inject venom with successive bites until they run out of venom. Note the type of snake that bit you if you can, and make plans to head for the nearest hospital unless you know for absolute surety that the snake that bit was not venomous. Inspect the wound and apply wound care.
It might comfort you to know that only 40 percent of snake bite victims will be given antivenom serum, but if you do need it, it is best administered within 6 hours after a highly venomous bite. Also, snakes, even dangerous ones like the diamondback, don't always release venom when they bite. Sometimes snakes may release too small an amount to pose a life threatening hazard.
Even so, even a bite from a nonvenomous snake requires good wound care. Like any animal bite, there is a risk of infection. Like other foreign substances that enter into the body, there can be an allergic reaction to a snake bite in some people.
Wound Care
To care for the wound, wash it with large amounts of soap and water, inspecting the wound for broken snake teeth or dirt. Then immobilize the bitten area and keep it lower than the heart. Remove constricting items on the victim, such as rings or other jewelry, which could cut off blood flow if the bite area swells. The snake bite victim would do well to have a tetanus booster if he or she has not had one within 5 years
What not to do:
Do not apply ice or any other type of cooling on the bite. Research has shown this to be potentially harmful.
Do not apply a tourniquet. (A tourniquet is a tightly-compressed bandage used to stop bleeding by stopping the flow of blood through a large artery in a limb.) Doing this would cut the blood flow completely and may result in loss of the affected limb.
Don not put any incisions in the wound. Do not suck the venom out. It is not useful if these things are done wrong and it may even cause more injury. Such measures have not been proven useful, except for maybe in the movies.
Spider Bites and Scorpion Stings
While painful, these are rarely deadly. Treat like snake bites. Try to identify the culprit, wash the site with lots of soap and water and seek medical attention!
Poison Ivy Quiz
Poison Ivy Quiz
What are the symptoms of poison ivy?
A rash. When people come in contact with the oil, it often adheres to the skin within minutes to a couple of hours, producing the telltale allergic responses of itching, swelling, rash, and oozing blisters.
How long does poison ivy rash last once you get it?
It usually takes about 2-3 weeks to get rid of the ivy rash.
Can you get poison ivy from a sleeping bag?
Yes! You can also get it from contact by touching something that has urushiol on it, such as socks or bed linens. It is important to wash clothing after exposure.
What should you do if you believe you have gotten into poison ivy?
Rinse your affected skin with water only first, then once the urushiol is off, wash with soap and water.
How do you treat your skin if you develop a rash?
"The earlier you cleanse the skin, the greater the chance that you can remove the urushiol before it gets attached. Treatment within 10-15 minutes of initial contact is important.
1. Rinse the affected area with water (any water).
2. Wash up with soap and warm water. Rinse with plain water first. If you use soap, the soap will only likely move the urushiol around.
3. Cool wet washcloths applied 15 –20 minutes several times a day help.
Oatmeal baths and calamine lotion, baking soda help too.
4. Antihistamines may be helpful for itching and hydrocortisone can be applied topically. Sometime you need strong anti itch cream, one from a doctor’s prescription.
5. All your clothes, shoes, tools, and anything else that may have been in contact with the urushiol should be wiped off with alcohol and water. Be sure to wear gloves or otherwise cover your hands while doing this and then discard the hand covering. Applying rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol to the infected area of skin is not a good idea as it removes your skin's protection along with the urushiol and any new contact will cause the urushiol to penetrate twice as fast.
What are the symptoms of poison ivy?
A rash. When people come in contact with the oil, it often adheres to the skin within minutes to a couple of hours, producing the telltale allergic responses of itching, swelling, rash, and oozing blisters.
How long does poison ivy rash last once you get it?
It usually takes about 2-3 weeks to get rid of the ivy rash.
Can you get poison ivy from a sleeping bag?
Yes! You can also get it from contact by touching something that has urushiol on it, such as socks or bed linens. It is important to wash clothing after exposure.
What should you do if you believe you have gotten into poison ivy?
Rinse your affected skin with water only first, then once the urushiol is off, wash with soap and water.
How do you treat your skin if you develop a rash?
"The earlier you cleanse the skin, the greater the chance that you can remove the urushiol before it gets attached. Treatment within 10-15 minutes of initial contact is important.
1. Rinse the affected area with water (any water).
2. Wash up with soap and warm water. Rinse with plain water first. If you use soap, the soap will only likely move the urushiol around.
3. Cool wet washcloths applied 15 –20 minutes several times a day help.
Oatmeal baths and calamine lotion, baking soda help too.
4. Antihistamines may be helpful for itching and hydrocortisone can be applied topically. Sometime you need strong anti itch cream, one from a doctor’s prescription.
5. All your clothes, shoes, tools, and anything else that may have been in contact with the urushiol should be wiped off with alcohol and water. Be sure to wear gloves or otherwise cover your hands while doing this and then discard the hand covering. Applying rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol to the infected area of skin is not a good idea as it removes your skin's protection along with the urushiol and any new contact will cause the urushiol to penetrate twice as fast.
Make Your Own Hiking Stick
"Walk softly, and carry a big stick."
T. Roosevelt.
Many hikers enjoy using a stick, or walking staff. when they are on a trail. Some hikers use an adjustable walking stick or a trekking pole that they have purchased. Sometimes experienced hikers will even travel with two! This is because a hiking stick can provide greater stability on challenging terrain. Trekking poles and hiking sticks are not only helpful for stability on an ascent, they also help take some of the strain off of your knees on the way down. It takes a while to learn to use a stick properly, but you will find them handy to have with you if you find yourself hiking a lot. Besides, they look cool.
The height of your stick is actually a matter of personal preference, though one consideration, especially for children is that you do not want to fall on a stick that is short and have it be the cause of an injury, especially on a wilderness trail, therefore you will fins that most fixed-length sticks are shoulder height or higher.
When you walk with a hiking stick, let it hit the ground a little in front of you instead of beside or behind you. The idea in doing this is so that if you were to startle a snake or another animal, they'll go for the stick instead of your foot!
In bear country, people put bells on their hiking sticks to warn the bears that someone is coming this is because animals would rather get out of the way than get in a fight. They usually only bite or strike when they are startled or feel threatened because they have no place to get away from the danger they suddenly perceive, which in this case would be YOU. The pounding of the stick, the ringing of the bell, will help them know something big is coming their way and they will most likely leave you alone.
Use your walking stick...
...to give you more pushing power when going uphill
...to help you balance as you cross streams and creeks
...for added stability when crossing a downed tree
...to reduce the shock of downhill gravity (be kind to your knees)
...to clear away a gross, sticky spider web if you need to
...to lean on when your leg needs a rest
...to avoid a snake bite,
...to prop up under a tarp and stay dry if you get stuck in a downpour of rain
...to prop up your day pack so it's not on the ground while you are at rest
...to go fishing if you get hungry- all you need is a hook and a line, and maybe a worm
...to make a flag for a signal- just add a bandanna
...as a pointer, to point out cool things, points of interest on the horizon to your buddies
...or to beat off a wild animal, or human attacker (This is called "Cane Fu !")
Or you may simply use it to look like a cool hiker.
Here are some websites with information and ideas on making your own Hiking Staff or Walking Stick
http://boyslife.org/hobbies-projects/projects/1108/take-a-hike/
http://www.backpacking.net/makegear/hiking-staff/
http://stealthsurvival.blogspot.com/2009/05/riverwalkers-gear-diy-hiking-staff.html
http://www.woodcarvers.org/canes&walkingsticks.htm
Nature Journeys Lesson Four
Nature Journeys Lesson Four
Now that you have the knowledge of what to do with snakes and scorpions, and you know what to do if you encounter wild beasts, and you are also able to identify some of the trees and plants of your environment, let's discuss what to do when you are out on a journey in nature and suddenly realize that you are lost.
Being lost means that you no longer have bearings of where you are, you come to a point where you are no longer in control of where you are going. Often when you are lost, you loose track of time and are confused about which way you came or the right way to return to where you came from. It's pretty easy to get lost in tree country, because everything looks the same. First you get disoriented and then you find yourself struggling to survive. Whether you are a kid or an adult, it's easy to get lost in the wilderness.
The dangers of being lost are many. Without shelter, a person can suffer from exposure to the elements, without food and water, a person could suffer hunger and thirst, without warmth they could experience hypothermia, and maybe even an ultimately death. The biggest danger in the wilderness is being lost, because when you are physically lost, your mental attitude can be lost too. The biggest danger is panic and losing hope of being found.
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT BEING LOST?
See if you can answer these questions:
How do people get lost?
Most of the time, people get lost because they do not stay with their group or they leave he safety of the marked trail. Sometimes they stay on a trail, but are not paying attention and end up going the right way because they do not read the map or miss a sign and go the wrong way. Most often it's because they do not follow a plan and end up off the trail, exploring places they have not planned to explore.
What would you do if someone you knew was lost on your hike?
You would probably call out to them, hoping they heard you. You would want to go and find them and get others to help you look for them.
What would you do if you realized that YOU were lost on a hike?
You would probably call out for help hoping someone would hear you.
Some people would not ask for help though, instead they would simply keep walking, try to find a trail and their way back. While this might seem like the thing to do, when people are lost, they have no idea where they are or what direction they need to go. Often a lost person will wander around using up all their energy, then they get tired and hungry and they are in even worse condition physically than if they had simply rested and waited. If you were lost, you would want to be careful not to travel further away than you already are, making it more difficult to rescue you..
What should a person do if they are lost?
The first thing to to is STOP. That's right S-T-O-P.
Sit down,
Take a drink of water,
Observe your surroundings and situation and
Plan your next course of action. Do not do anything else until you know for certain that what you are doing is the best thing. You do want to stay in control of your situation as much as possible, even if it means staying right where you are. Do not move unless you are certain of where your next step will lead you.
Here are some things to do:
See if you have brought your cell phone. See if it works from where you are. If your cellphone is at home, or not getting reception, then find a large tree that is near to a clearing and stay there. The tree will give you shelter and being near a clearing, you will be easier to spot, especially if you make a signal or sign to help those who are looking for you, find you.
Keep busy mentally and physically. Build a shelter in case you end up being out overnight, collect wood for building a fire,
You can live 3 days without water; 3 weeks without food. If you are worried about being lost for an extended period of time, remember that water is more important than food.
Make loud noises at things that scare you and know that those noises you are making will help people find you. This is a good reason to carry a whistle with you in a pocket or day pack, for a whistle can help you make noise for others to hear if you get lost and help you save your voice and energy.
Use your whistle. If you are using a whistle, blow three distinct times and then wait 3 to 5 minutes and blow three blasts again. If you do not have a whistle, sing some camp songs, listening periodically to see if someone heard you singing.
Make sure you will be seen. Three whistle blasts, three piles of dark wood on light sand, or three fires burning simultaneously a distance from one another are common signals for help. If you need to sleep or take shelter, put your bandanna or some article of bright cloth out in the open near where you are, hoping that it will be spotted from a distance or from the sky. Mirrors and reflectors can help people find you too. Make your presence known, and while you are waiting to be found, focus your attention on God, and pray. He will hear your prayer.
As discussed previously, something to do before you leave for a hike, is to let someone know where you are going, and when you expect to return. Do this BEFORE you get lost, and check in with people when you get back. If you do not return, they can report you missing if you do not return. For backpacking expeditions, you can even leave your itinerary with a ranger at the trailhead, just in case... you, like many others before you, find yourself lost.
The point of hiking and backpacking, for many people is to get away from the concrete jungle mankind has create, and to somehow reconnect with the natural world. They want to be reunited with the wonder and joy of nature that man's created world seems to take away. Sometimes people believe that through nature, they become attuned with God, even calling Him "the Divine." While the solitude and serenity leads one to think about their life more clearly and being in nature is closer to what Eden might have been like, than life in a modern factory driven city, Christians people must understand that even in those moments when we feel that life on earth is very close to what it must have been in Eden, it is not the same thing at all. We must realize that the world we are in is tainted; with something God never intended, sin, and ultimately death.
As much as we can appreciate the natural world, and we know that God created it, we must remember that in the natural world everything is perishing. All living things will one-day cease to live. It's also important to understand the God is supernatural. Miracles are evidence of the supernatural, but not all things supernatural are miracles, nor from God.
People need to know what a miracle really is...and is not. For example, a miracle is... not a work of magic or wizardry. A miracle is... not an event of nature or of natural origin. In fact, a miracle goes against the normal laws of nature. It is not a natural phenomenon. The miracles of Jesus include Jesus healing the blind, Jesus casting out demons, Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, and Jesus walking on water. These are amazing things.
A miracle is a demonstration of God's power and truth, and true miracles from God throughout human history, give a definite ‘sign’ to believers and non-believers alike that God is real.
The existence of God, or at least a being greater than ourselves, should be quite evident, simply by what we do see in the natural world, at least to thinking, reasoning and creative beings like ourselves. But we are blind, groping about, maybe even looking for God, or at least answers to life the universe and everything, until God opens our eyes to his truth. He does this quite supernaturally too.
Jesus said,
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
People like to think of life as a journey, and perhaps it is. In a way, you might say that it's a journey through a vast wilderness, a hike. One where you must identify trees and plants that can help you or hurt you. You must know how to stand against the threat of many dangers and know the remedy for the harm that the natural world can deal to you and consider the reality of death and dying as you eat plants or animals in order to exist as one gives it's life, the fruit of it's own body, so another can live. Life is a journey. Like a hike, it's a journey of discovery.
It's a discovery of who you are, and what your made of and what you lack, as well as a coming to understand what you lack and what you need. It's coming to the realization that this world is not our natural home because it's tainted with sin which results in death and destruction. Our true home is with God where he is. For the time being, we can only live day by day as God allows us, and do His work make this world a better place, helping others to see the path that they must take. We are lost in the journey of life, until someone shows us the way.
John 14:1-7, Jesus speaking.
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
I hope that by being out in creation, you better understand that the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen... being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Romans chapter 1 tells us that there are people who see these things, they know about God, but they refused to glorify him as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things. They changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Now that you have the knowledge of what to do with snakes and scorpions, and you know what to do if you encounter wild beasts, and you are also able to identify some of the trees and plants of your environment, let's discuss what to do when you are out on a journey in nature and suddenly realize that you are lost.
Being lost means that you no longer have bearings of where you are, you come to a point where you are no longer in control of where you are going. Often when you are lost, you loose track of time and are confused about which way you came or the right way to return to where you came from. It's pretty easy to get lost in tree country, because everything looks the same. First you get disoriented and then you find yourself struggling to survive. Whether you are a kid or an adult, it's easy to get lost in the wilderness.
The dangers of being lost are many. Without shelter, a person can suffer from exposure to the elements, without food and water, a person could suffer hunger and thirst, without warmth they could experience hypothermia, and maybe even an ultimately death. The biggest danger in the wilderness is being lost, because when you are physically lost, your mental attitude can be lost too. The biggest danger is panic and losing hope of being found.
WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT BEING LOST?
See if you can answer these questions:
How do people get lost?
Most of the time, people get lost because they do not stay with their group or they leave he safety of the marked trail. Sometimes they stay on a trail, but are not paying attention and end up going the right way because they do not read the map or miss a sign and go the wrong way. Most often it's because they do not follow a plan and end up off the trail, exploring places they have not planned to explore.
What would you do if someone you knew was lost on your hike?
You would probably call out to them, hoping they heard you. You would want to go and find them and get others to help you look for them.
What would you do if you realized that YOU were lost on a hike?
You would probably call out for help hoping someone would hear you.
Some people would not ask for help though, instead they would simply keep walking, try to find a trail and their way back. While this might seem like the thing to do, when people are lost, they have no idea where they are or what direction they need to go. Often a lost person will wander around using up all their energy, then they get tired and hungry and they are in even worse condition physically than if they had simply rested and waited. If you were lost, you would want to be careful not to travel further away than you already are, making it more difficult to rescue you..
What should a person do if they are lost?
The first thing to to is STOP. That's right S-T-O-P.
Sit down,
Take a drink of water,
Observe your surroundings and situation and
Plan your next course of action. Do not do anything else until you know for certain that what you are doing is the best thing. You do want to stay in control of your situation as much as possible, even if it means staying right where you are. Do not move unless you are certain of where your next step will lead you.
Here are some things to do:
See if you have brought your cell phone. See if it works from where you are. If your cellphone is at home, or not getting reception, then find a large tree that is near to a clearing and stay there. The tree will give you shelter and being near a clearing, you will be easier to spot, especially if you make a signal or sign to help those who are looking for you, find you.
Keep busy mentally and physically. Build a shelter in case you end up being out overnight, collect wood for building a fire,
You can live 3 days without water; 3 weeks without food. If you are worried about being lost for an extended period of time, remember that water is more important than food.
Make loud noises at things that scare you and know that those noises you are making will help people find you. This is a good reason to carry a whistle with you in a pocket or day pack, for a whistle can help you make noise for others to hear if you get lost and help you save your voice and energy.
Use your whistle. If you are using a whistle, blow three distinct times and then wait 3 to 5 minutes and blow three blasts again. If you do not have a whistle, sing some camp songs, listening periodically to see if someone heard you singing.
Make sure you will be seen. Three whistle blasts, three piles of dark wood on light sand, or three fires burning simultaneously a distance from one another are common signals for help. If you need to sleep or take shelter, put your bandanna or some article of bright cloth out in the open near where you are, hoping that it will be spotted from a distance or from the sky. Mirrors and reflectors can help people find you too. Make your presence known, and while you are waiting to be found, focus your attention on God, and pray. He will hear your prayer.
As discussed previously, something to do before you leave for a hike, is to let someone know where you are going, and when you expect to return. Do this BEFORE you get lost, and check in with people when you get back. If you do not return, they can report you missing if you do not return. For backpacking expeditions, you can even leave your itinerary with a ranger at the trailhead, just in case... you, like many others before you, find yourself lost.
The point of hiking and backpacking, for many people is to get away from the concrete jungle mankind has create, and to somehow reconnect with the natural world. They want to be reunited with the wonder and joy of nature that man's created world seems to take away. Sometimes people believe that through nature, they become attuned with God, even calling Him "the Divine." While the solitude and serenity leads one to think about their life more clearly and being in nature is closer to what Eden might have been like, than life in a modern factory driven city, Christians people must understand that even in those moments when we feel that life on earth is very close to what it must have been in Eden, it is not the same thing at all. We must realize that the world we are in is tainted; with something God never intended, sin, and ultimately death.
As much as we can appreciate the natural world, and we know that God created it, we must remember that in the natural world everything is perishing. All living things will one-day cease to live. It's also important to understand the God is supernatural. Miracles are evidence of the supernatural, but not all things supernatural are miracles, nor from God.
People need to know what a miracle really is...and is not. For example, a miracle is... not a work of magic or wizardry. A miracle is... not an event of nature or of natural origin. In fact, a miracle goes against the normal laws of nature. It is not a natural phenomenon. The miracles of Jesus include Jesus healing the blind, Jesus casting out demons, Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, and Jesus walking on water. These are amazing things.
A miracle is a demonstration of God's power and truth, and true miracles from God throughout human history, give a definite ‘sign’ to believers and non-believers alike that God is real.
The existence of God, or at least a being greater than ourselves, should be quite evident, simply by what we do see in the natural world, at least to thinking, reasoning and creative beings like ourselves. But we are blind, groping about, maybe even looking for God, or at least answers to life the universe and everything, until God opens our eyes to his truth. He does this quite supernaturally too.
Jesus said,
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
People like to think of life as a journey, and perhaps it is. In a way, you might say that it's a journey through a vast wilderness, a hike. One where you must identify trees and plants that can help you or hurt you. You must know how to stand against the threat of many dangers and know the remedy for the harm that the natural world can deal to you and consider the reality of death and dying as you eat plants or animals in order to exist as one gives it's life, the fruit of it's own body, so another can live. Life is a journey. Like a hike, it's a journey of discovery.
It's a discovery of who you are, and what your made of and what you lack, as well as a coming to understand what you lack and what you need. It's coming to the realization that this world is not our natural home because it's tainted with sin which results in death and destruction. Our true home is with God where he is. For the time being, we can only live day by day as God allows us, and do His work make this world a better place, helping others to see the path that they must take. We are lost in the journey of life, until someone shows us the way.
John 14:1-7, Jesus speaking.
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
I hope that by being out in creation, you better understand that the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen... being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Romans chapter 1 tells us that there are people who see these things, they know about God, but they refused to glorify him as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things. They changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
Save The Earth! Lesson Five
SAVE THE EARTH!
It's true. The earth needs saving. In fact, all of creation waits with eager longing for God to reveal his children. The reason being that creation was condemned, not of its own will, but because God willed it to be so. Yet, even in that, there was the hope that creation itself would one day be set free from its slavery to decay and would share the glorious freedom of the children of God. (adaptation of the Goo9d News Bible Version of Romans 8) Jesus Christ, after all, came to save sinners. In essences he came to save all of creation too, but not man;s way, God's.
Ecology and the Christian
Christians should not make creation groan more by being wasteful or wreckless anymore than they should place a burden on another human being, one that they themselves are not willing to carry. It is our duty to be good stewards over our environment, over our lives and be responsible with how we use natural resources, but natural resources are not our ultimate cause and purpose for living, nor are they our only sustainer for this life. God is our provider, sustainer, and very present help in time of need. He is, after all, super natural and because he is supernatural he can
do anything in the time of need, like part the Red Sea or change water into wine.
A large majority of humanity is on the bandwagon "to save the planet," and help humanity, but not with eternity in mind. Not only to the reject God and God's messengers, but they are only thinking of the here and now and their own comfort and survival. Many have a deep rooted disregard for God. They want to "save" humanity from annihilation, even "save" the planet from poisons and human greed, but they do not want to believe the way Jesus said it must done.
They have their own way of doing things.
They are willing to kill babies through abortion to" save" the planet, they believe that "there is not enough food, land, or love to go around. " They are even willing to euthanize the old and feeble to "save" them from death's door and to make the world a more beautiful, peaceful place.
They work real hard to "save" the world by recycling everything, but the word of God and the one he sent, they gladly throw away.
They preach about global warming and how if we are not careful, we will all reap the heat of what we drive, but little do that know, their greatest fear of late, "global warming" is nothing compared to the hellfire and damnation Jesus died to save us from, a reality that much closer than they think. But it's not all hot air.
It's true, land is being converted from natural wildernesses to industry and this industry is causing ecological problems. Species do go extinct, never to reappear again. Harmful chemicals are harmful and take their toll on plant and animal life. Rivers and oceans, lakes and streams are becoming more polluted. Landfills are filling. Air is smoggy and energy continues to be an issue in an energy consuming world. But like Humpty Dumpy, all the human effort in the world, cannot put the broken thing back the way it was created to be, but we can repect and love one another as we live out our earthly lives.
Take responsibility for your actions and how your actions affect others, and remember, the point of being in the wilds is to experience the wilds, to understand the real nature of life as God has made it, and make new discoveries even new friend. Perhaps even share the gospel with someone you meet so that they can really know salvation and the joy of the hope we share in this thing called eternal life.
Matthew 28:19
"Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:."
As for saving planet earth...
Jesus did that.
This week, learn and practice trail etiquette. Make arrangements to help in building otr maintaining a local trail.
Trail Etiquette
Do not leave anything behind; pick it up and pack it out.
Leave plants and trees that you do not have a use for alone, so others can enjoy them. Carving, hacking or peeling bark and leaves from them may kill them. Stepping on flowers and young trees can damage them to the point they will not grow back.
Treat animals respectfully and do not do them injury or harass them for the sake of "fun."
Use bathrooms or outhouses when available. If not available, bury human waste and anything used for toilet paper in a small hole 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet or 70 big steps from water. Keep water clean. Do not put soap, food, or human or pet waste in lakes or streams.
Burn all wood to ash in a camfire and be sure the fire is completely out and cold before you leave. If you want to have a campfire, be sure it’s safe to build a fire in the area you’re visiting. Use only existing fire rings to protect the ground from heat and keep your fire small and under your control.
More Trail Etiquette
Hiking is not a time for blasting tunes, control your noise and make sure that other people can enjoy the sounds or lack of sound in a natural environment. Keep noise as a reasonable level. The point of hiking and backpacking is not to make being out in nature more like being indoors it's to boldly go outside your normal comfort zone and enjoy the great outdoors!
If you come across signs that have been vandalized or damaged, make sure to notify the local ranger. This will help maintain the site and will keep the signs fresh for other hikers.
Say hello to fellow hikers on the trail. When approached by hikers moving faster than you, let them by and generally speaking, the hiker coming up the hill has the 'right-of-way' over the hiker coming down the hill.
Bikers should always yield to pedestrians. Horses rule. Let them by if they approach from any direction.
Leashes for dogs are a good idea and even required on some trails. It is proper etiquette to have control of your dog at all times, on or off a leash. People do not want a strange dog to be running up to them.
It is the dog owner's responsibility to properly dispose of pet waste. Horse owners are responsible for removing horse manure from the trail.
It is a good etiquette to try to perform one bit of trail maintenance if you see it need to be done for the safety of others. This would include: moving sticks or downed trees from the trail, filling holes or picking up garbage that is not your own.
When using the trail systems in winter, avoid walking on cross country ski trails. Instead, walk to the right-hand side of the tracks so they are not ruined by your footprints.
Life Etiquette
And God spake all these words, saying,
1. I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
2. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
3. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
4. Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
5. Thou shalt not kill.
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
7. Thou shalt not steal.
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house,
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.
...And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
1John 2:1
God bless you as you continue Hiking with the High King!
It's true. The earth needs saving. In fact, all of creation waits with eager longing for God to reveal his children. The reason being that creation was condemned, not of its own will, but because God willed it to be so. Yet, even in that, there was the hope that creation itself would one day be set free from its slavery to decay and would share the glorious freedom of the children of God. (adaptation of the Goo9d News Bible Version of Romans 8) Jesus Christ, after all, came to save sinners. In essences he came to save all of creation too, but not man;s way, God's.
Ecology and the Christian
Christians should not make creation groan more by being wasteful or wreckless anymore than they should place a burden on another human being, one that they themselves are not willing to carry. It is our duty to be good stewards over our environment, over our lives and be responsible with how we use natural resources, but natural resources are not our ultimate cause and purpose for living, nor are they our only sustainer for this life. God is our provider, sustainer, and very present help in time of need. He is, after all, super natural and because he is supernatural he can
do anything in the time of need, like part the Red Sea or change water into wine.
A large majority of humanity is on the bandwagon "to save the planet," and help humanity, but not with eternity in mind. Not only to the reject God and God's messengers, but they are only thinking of the here and now and their own comfort and survival. Many have a deep rooted disregard for God. They want to "save" humanity from annihilation, even "save" the planet from poisons and human greed, but they do not want to believe the way Jesus said it must done.
They have their own way of doing things.
They are willing to kill babies through abortion to" save" the planet, they believe that "there is not enough food, land, or love to go around. " They are even willing to euthanize the old and feeble to "save" them from death's door and to make the world a more beautiful, peaceful place.
They work real hard to "save" the world by recycling everything, but the word of God and the one he sent, they gladly throw away.
They preach about global warming and how if we are not careful, we will all reap the heat of what we drive, but little do that know, their greatest fear of late, "global warming" is nothing compared to the hellfire and damnation Jesus died to save us from, a reality that much closer than they think. But it's not all hot air.
It's true, land is being converted from natural wildernesses to industry and this industry is causing ecological problems. Species do go extinct, never to reappear again. Harmful chemicals are harmful and take their toll on plant and animal life. Rivers and oceans, lakes and streams are becoming more polluted. Landfills are filling. Air is smoggy and energy continues to be an issue in an energy consuming world. But like Humpty Dumpy, all the human effort in the world, cannot put the broken thing back the way it was created to be, but we can repect and love one another as we live out our earthly lives.
Take responsibility for your actions and how your actions affect others, and remember, the point of being in the wilds is to experience the wilds, to understand the real nature of life as God has made it, and make new discoveries even new friend. Perhaps even share the gospel with someone you meet so that they can really know salvation and the joy of the hope we share in this thing called eternal life.
Matthew 28:19
"Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:."
As for saving planet earth...
Jesus did that.
This week, learn and practice trail etiquette. Make arrangements to help in building otr maintaining a local trail.
Trail Etiquette
Do not leave anything behind; pick it up and pack it out.
Leave plants and trees that you do not have a use for alone, so others can enjoy them. Carving, hacking or peeling bark and leaves from them may kill them. Stepping on flowers and young trees can damage them to the point they will not grow back.
Treat animals respectfully and do not do them injury or harass them for the sake of "fun."
Use bathrooms or outhouses when available. If not available, bury human waste and anything used for toilet paper in a small hole 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet or 70 big steps from water. Keep water clean. Do not put soap, food, or human or pet waste in lakes or streams.
Burn all wood to ash in a camfire and be sure the fire is completely out and cold before you leave. If you want to have a campfire, be sure it’s safe to build a fire in the area you’re visiting. Use only existing fire rings to protect the ground from heat and keep your fire small and under your control.
More Trail Etiquette
Hiking is not a time for blasting tunes, control your noise and make sure that other people can enjoy the sounds or lack of sound in a natural environment. Keep noise as a reasonable level. The point of hiking and backpacking is not to make being out in nature more like being indoors it's to boldly go outside your normal comfort zone and enjoy the great outdoors!
If you come across signs that have been vandalized or damaged, make sure to notify the local ranger. This will help maintain the site and will keep the signs fresh for other hikers.
Say hello to fellow hikers on the trail. When approached by hikers moving faster than you, let them by and generally speaking, the hiker coming up the hill has the 'right-of-way' over the hiker coming down the hill.
Bikers should always yield to pedestrians. Horses rule. Let them by if they approach from any direction.
Leashes for dogs are a good idea and even required on some trails. It is proper etiquette to have control of your dog at all times, on or off a leash. People do not want a strange dog to be running up to them.
It is the dog owner's responsibility to properly dispose of pet waste. Horse owners are responsible for removing horse manure from the trail.
It is a good etiquette to try to perform one bit of trail maintenance if you see it need to be done for the safety of others. This would include: moving sticks or downed trees from the trail, filling holes or picking up garbage that is not your own.
When using the trail systems in winter, avoid walking on cross country ski trails. Instead, walk to the right-hand side of the tracks so they are not ruined by your footprints.
Life Etiquette
And God spake all these words, saying,
1. I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
2. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
3. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
4. Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
5. Thou shalt not kill.
6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
7. Thou shalt not steal.
8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house,
10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.
...And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
1John 2:1
God bless you as you continue Hiking with the High King!
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