A Lesson From The Duck Boat
By Marty Schutte | 4/3/2020

Dear Family and Friends,

Today I would like to share a lesson I have learned from the duck boat. If you know me at all, you are aware that I am an avid duck hunter. As far as duck hunting goes one thing we duck hunters prefer is foul weather. A sunny day is not optimal for duck hunting.  I can assure you that the first sign of any snow has me out in it ,hunting my favorite meals.

I own two boats and neither of them is sea worthy. They are designed for rivers and smaller bodies of water. Some hunters have the bigger boats for deep water hunting, but I prefer the rivers and marshes. But even those can be dangerous.

I once was in the Horicon Marsh on the perfect foul day for hunting. A little drizzle, and a good breeze 

were all I needed. My dog and I headed out into the marsh with good amount decoys packed into my

little boat.

Success came quickly. My limit in geese and ducks had been reached. The bay I had tucked myself into 

was about 80 acres in size and out of nowhere white caps appeared on the water. As I was attempting 

to pick up my decoys I found rowing and keeping on course to be impossible. I started the small motor 

and proceeded to grab the decoys off of the water. Some, for safety’s sake had to be left behind. I 

headed for the mouth of the bay. Some waves had started to fill my boat. Once I reached the channel 

that would take me home the traveling didn’t become an easier. Darkness was setting in and every time

I looked any other way but straight I found myself headed to danger and off course.  I needed to focus.

The channel is best traveled right down the middle. Too many boat hazards are close to the shore on 

either side.  As I looked ahead the light at the distant boat landing turned on. I never took my eyes off of that light. It was leading me to a safe shore.

 

Isaiah 26:3 English Standard Version (ESV)

You keep him in perfect peace
    whose mind is stayed on you,
    because he trusts in you

 

During this time of turmoil keep your eyes focused on God. Avoid the distractions that can lead you off course. The internet is interesting but can also lead to foolish expenditures out of boredom. Before buying, pray, and see if it is a need or want. Can it wait? Television can entertain, but don’t compromise your Biblical values. God will lead us to the shore. I had to leave behind some decoys that would have capsized the boat with their lead weights.  When we get to the other side of this storm do we need extra debt that could have been avoided? Do we need the desire to watch things we shouldn’t? Times are tough right now and will get better. Don’t make them worse. Turn your eyes upon God and stay focused.

Psalm 101:3 English Standard Version (ESV)

I will not set before my eyes
    anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
    it shall not cling to me

 

 

 

Love you all. Elder Marty