Lessons From the Birds, Part Three
The avian antics at my bird feeder seemed to be an endless source of spiritual insight. From the clever sparrow who found a way around the crowded sides to the persistent little fellow who refused to give up, each bird had something to teach. I love how God does that! As I settled in for another session of feathered observation, I was struck by a new lesson that would make me question my approach to life's challenges and remind me of the importance of seeking God's guidance.
As the last suet ball dwindled, it shifted to one side of the feeder, presenting a new challenge for the feathered visitors. One determined bird caught my eye. Instead of simply flying around to the side where the suet ball now rested, this stubborn little fellow insisted on stretching through the bars, twisting his neck at impossible angles, all in an attempt to reach the food. I couldn't help but chuckle at his ridiculous contortions.
"Silly bird," I muttered, shaking my head. "Why make it so difficult? Just fly around to the other side!"
As I watched this avian acrobat, a gentle nudge in my spirit reminded me of how often we humans behave in much the same way. We get so caught up in our own plans and methods that we lose all common sense. It's as if we unintentionally set ourselves up for failure.
How many times have I found myself in similar situations? Stretching and straining to make something work when a simple change of perspective would have made all the difference. It's like trying to force a square peg into a round hole, all the while ignoring the perfectly shaped opening right next to it.
The Bible addresses this issue in Proverbs 3:7, "Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil." When we become too focused on our wisdom and plans, we often miss the simpler, more effective solutions God provides.
I'm reminded of the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5. This great Syrian commander was told to wash seven times in the Jordan River to be healed of his leprosy. At first, he was indignant, expecting some grand gesture or complicated ritual. But it was the simple act of obedience that brought about his healing.
Perhaps you find yourself in a similar situation today. Are you wrestling with a problem, convinced that your way is the only way? Maybe it's time to take a step back and consider whether you're making things more complicated than they need to be.
Let's challenge ourselves to be open to God's guidance, even when it doesn't align with our preconceived notions. Sometimes, the most profound spiritual growth comes not from pushing harder but from surrendering our plans and embracing God's wisdom.
After all, our Heavenly Father sees the whole picture. He knows the easiest path to the nourishment we need, both spiritually and in our everyday lives. Perhaps it's time we stop twisting ourselves into knots and simply trust His direction. Who knows? The solution might be just on the other side of the feeder.