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How Do You Hunt?




We’ve all heard the phrase “chasing a dream,” but I’m not sure that’s really enough. To chase something, we are in a reactive state of mind and responding in the moment. No, when it comes to pursuing our goals, passions and God-given talents, we need to plan and prepare. We must learn to both anticipate and adapt. We must not just chase, but hunt.

Hunting implies the strategic and intentional pursuit of a target; but when it comes to our ambitions, people often employ a different strategy. Tree stands allow a hunter to sit up off the ground, in relative safety and comfort, and wait for an unsuspecting animal to wander within range. It’s a very passive way of hunting. Rather than tactically planning out a quest in search of the desired trophy, the hunter sits on his can and waits for his prey to come to him.

Now, while this may or may not be an effective or accepted strategy for filling the freezer, it’s not the argument I am trying to make. Chasing animals in the woods is a lot of fun, maybe sitting and waiting for them too, but tracking down your God-designed destiny requires a bit more engagement. Resting comfortably in safety and security while waiting for opportunity to walk right by you won’t get the job done.

Hunting takes determined and deliberate effort, going after a specific trophy, not just whatever wanders by. It means boots on the ground, climbing, crawling, and when necessary, clearing your own trail. You’ll get bloody, muddy and sweaty. It won’t often be easy but it will always be worth it. Life is full of people sitting up in their tree, waiting on fortune to strike. This is a great advantage for you if you are willing to distance yourself from comfort and security to embrace some risk. Your ambitions and aspirations are out there. Get off your tree stand and go hunt.

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