The Sunday Sermonette – One Nest. Two Thoughts.

     Several months ago, I trimmed Mom’s sixty-year-old nandina. With my trusty shears, I slashed away with all my might. Imagine my horror when cleaning up my mess, I saw a bird’s nest in the pile of branches. I picked it up. Thankfully, no eggs or baby birds were nestled within the woven architecture of its leaves and twigs. Holding it in my hand, I was amazed at its construction.

     Nest-building is a complex business. Because birds need a secure place to lay their eggs, their nests must be strong enough to withstand wind and rain and tough enough to support a family of lively, growing chicks. In the grand scheme of things, Father God instilled into birds the ability to build nests that would fulfill those requirements.

     The Book of Proverbs has a beautiful verse about a bird’s nest and God’s will. Proverbs 27:8 says, “Like a bird that wanders from its nest, So is a person who wanders from his home.” God knew that nests would be good homes for birds, a safe place from predators, and a place to rest because birds can’t fly forever. He knows we need a safe nest as well.

     However, as empty nesters know, baby birds ultimately fly away. This indicates that there is nothing wrong with moving away from our home nest. Father God told Abraham to leave his nest in Ur and move to an unknown land. Remember, too, that many birds build new nests each year. So, clearly, Proverbs 27:8 isn’t the Bible’s way of barring us from ever leaving home or embarking on some new journey in life. It’s a reminder that within God’s plan, there is always room for growth and change.

     Instead, it’s telling us that we should strive to live our days in the center of God’s will. If it’s His will that you nestle in the same nest you’ve called home for many years, so be it. If it means packing a bag, flying away, and constructing a new nest, that’s okay, too. Remember, seeking God’s will first in all your decisions will not only help guide you to your new nest but also provide you with a sense of reassurance and guidance.

     But trouble looms just outside our nests when we unwisely wander away from them. Ever said—I’m sick of this job? I’m out of here! Or—This town’s the pits! I gotta make a new plan, Stan, and step out the back, Jack! Perhaps you’ve flapped your wings and said—This marriage, this friendship is over! I know I would be happier with someone else. Watch out, little birds. Is leaving your nest really God’s will for your life?

     Are you contemplating making a significant change in your life? If you are, please know that I didn’t scribble down these words to scare you out of going through with your plans. Lest we forget, there are times when God whispers in our ears, “It’s time to change nests.”

     In its nest, a bird is safe and at peace. If it foolishly abandons that nest, it leaves behind all that. As you consider whether or not to leave your current nest, please ask the Lord to guide you to the new one that He’s creating just for you. Remember, staying in His plan brings a sense of security and comfort, like a bird in its nest.

     Ponder this and go forth.