Faithful Feathers
Well, it’s official. We’re empty nesters. My husband and I just returned home after getting our third little birdie settled into his dorm room “nest” six and ½ hours away.
I really don’t like the term “empty nester” very much. I don’t feel like it really describes our family. Although none of our three children actually live with us now, I still feel like the “mother hen.” I have strong relationships with my two married daughters and they regularly call for my advice and encouragement. And my son will be home for a family celebration in just three weeks. My three little chick-a-dees may have “nests” of their own, but they really haven’t left home.
Scripture often describes God with characteristics of a mother bird. Jesus Himself said how much He longed to gather the children of Jerusalem together, “as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings” (Matthew 23:37). Jesus desired to pull His people into a place of safety, security, and rest. He wanted to cover them with protection and provision like a mother bird cares for her young.
Many refuse God’s offer, but others gratefully and eagerly nestle under the shadow of His wings. What about you? Have you taken shelter under the strong wing of the Almighty or you trying to fly solo? Accept His offer today.
Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
This I declare about the Lord:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
he is my God, and I trust him.
For he will rescue you from every trap
and protect you from deadly disease.
He will cover you with his feathers.
He will shelter you with his wings.
His faithful promises are your armor and protection.Psalm 91:1-4, NLT
Believe me, I have tried the ‘solo flight’…didn’t work so well for me. I am glad that I can hide under His mighty wings and can find refuge there.
Thank you Kathy for the encouragement this morning.
Iris, I am glad too that I can nestle under God’s wing!
We just dropped our eldest off (we have three daughters) and I agree, they may be gone but haven’t left the nest! Thankfully like you said we can all nestle under the wings of God.
I’ve been an empty nester for a couple of years now. It is difficult, but with God’s help I’ve adjusted! I’m so thankful for His provision and comfort!
Blessings, Joan
Jenny, in my experience, leaving that first one is doubly hard! May God help you adjust quickly!
Joan, thanks for confirming that there’s life “after children!” So glad I am always my Father’s child!
Kathy, I never liked the term “empty nest” either. Our 3 boys are out on thier own, leaving us with just our teen daughter. Even though our boys are married, we are very much part of their lives. Your devotion reminded me today about how much God,our Father also desires to be a vital part of our lives. No matter what stage of growth we find ourselves in. Thanks for sharing today.
Laurie, thank you for sharing. I too am so glad God draws us close!