Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? (Matthew 6:26)
I have a history with birds!
Years ago, when God called me into full-time vocational ministry, we literally started over financially. I had to rely on the support of others the first few years and I’ve never been good at asking people for money. So, I simply refused to do it. God always provided, but there were many weeks of “waiting by the mailbox”. (Almost like when I was a small business owner and trying to make payroll – only with fewer 0’s.)
In full disclosure, there were so many times I found myself questioning some of the very basic principles of God about which I was attempting to teach every day. I guess you could call it a “pity party”, where I felt sorry for myself and thought I was highly justified in doing so. (I hope that doesn’t disappoint you to know, but it’s true.)
On those days, I tended to head towards a chair in my study to spend time praying and seeking God.
In the home where we lived at the time, two walls in my study were completely glass. Any time of day I could usually look out the windows and see birds. Several times, as I prayed to the Lord, I would look up and there were not just a few birds, but literally dozens around my back yard. I saw everything from sparrows, cardinals, and blue jays to yellow finches, woodpeckers, and hummingbirds. And, there were always some I couldn’t identify. Birds everywhere!
Sitting there in my chair, I instantly become overwhelmed with the Holy Spirit saying to me “Ron, I am caring for all these birds. Not one of them is concerned about its next meal. Surely I can care for you.” I’m not sure, but He may even add in those moments, “Oh, you of little faith.”
Whenever I was really struggling, God seemed to provide a bird party to remind me of His presence in my life.
Isn’t grace amazing?
Are you wondering in this season of your life if God cares – or if He is working all things for your ultimate good?
Please understand, I’m not suggesting a simple look out the window to look at some birds will cure all your anxiety. Don’t ever be afraid to get professional help. Sometimes, however, we allow the pressures of the world to cloud the truth of His promises. If that’s your story, ask God to show you His creation. Let it gently confirm the presence of an all-powerful, almighty God!