Consider the birds…

'That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?' Matthew 6:25-27 (NLT)

There are over 10,000 species of identified birds in the world. Over thirty different bird species are specifically referred to in the Bible. The dove, eagle, swallow and raven are mentioned the most. The dove and raven play predominant roles in helping Noah determine when to open the door of the ark after the flood.

The eagle is a swift high flying bird that lends itself to many metaphors. The swallow builds its nest in the sanctuary of the temple. The dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit in the New Testament.

God sent ravens to feed Elijah. Jesus talked about the sparrows and used the metaphor of a hen drawing her chicks to herself to express His desire to bring the people of Jerusalem to Himself. God used the image of an eagle carrying its young as a way to describe how He would carry the people of Israel to safety.

Birds are featured in the Bible. So this week stop, look and listen to the birds. Consider what they can teach you about God.

By Commissioner Debi Bell