August 24, 2004

A Lesson from a Dead Grizzly Bear – Part 2

The rest of the story gives even more glory to God

Paul Tautges

Dear Parents,

Almost two years ago I sent your children a letter about a boy who was saved from a grizzly bear attack because he obeyed his father.  STOP!  Read Part 1 before you go any further. 

Last year, I received an email that I failed to pass it on to you right away, but this week I found it while sorting through my old folders.  I was again encouraged by the faithfulness of God to vindicate His written Word and I know this “rest of the story” will encourage you and your children.

Pastor Tautges,

Greetings from Daniel’s dad. Daniel was looking on the Internet and found your web site.  Your Nov. 20, 2002 lesson is about our son, Daniel.  We are Christians and really  are happy that someone used Daniel's experience as a Biblical character lesson.  The rest of the story that didn't get printed is the bear, after sucking up two 20 gauge slugs, went up the mountain about 100 yards and died.  It didn't die instantly.  We believe God had His guardian angels with Daniel that night.  The bear could have kept coming and gotten Daniel and the family dog if it wanted to before it died, but turned and went up the mountain.  A fact that needs to be told is that a fatally shot animal will always head downhill, the path of least resistance. This shows how much fight the bear had in him. The first shot broke the collar bone and destroyed the lungs, a very fatal shot!

God was protecting Daniel, yes because of his obedience, because he paid attention to what he was taught, and practiced what he was taught. This directly parallels what Jesus taught that if we aren't diligent in the little things we can't be ready for the big things when they come. The parable of the talents comes to mind.

Just thought you would like to know more about the incident and that God's protecting hand was involved in a great degree after the shots in divine protection.

Respectfully,

 John S. Pickar 

What a wonderful real-life example of the promise found in Ephesians 6:1-3, Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.  Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth.  May this testimony encourage us parents to persevere in teaching our children the meaning and importance of true obedience and also instill in our children a deeper desire to obey our God-given authority for their good.

May God richly bless your family as you follow the precepts of His Word.

Pastor Paul