Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!
(Psalm 61:4,ESV)
The ways that God works in the unseen, is always a surprise. Sometimes we wonder if our prayers for protection and peace are strong enough and then He quietly reveals a glimpse of His grace and presence.
The past few months, outside my front picture window, such has been the case. While praying, a tiny miracle was happening.
I planted some bright flowers in a hanging basket on the corner of my porch this spring. My yard was complete mud and bright pink seemed like a logical touch of color and happiness.
As my living room was filled with questions and prayers with my kids about life and faith, unknowingly we were welcoming a new visitor to the yard.
While these flowers were blossoming and thriving under the elements, a small bird was creating a place of protection and safety.
Occasionally we would see this tiny bird flitting past the window carrying large amounts of twigs and sticks. Since dozens of trees line our fence, we didn’t give it much thought.
Until about two weeks ago.
One morning I went to water and this little bird exploded from the basket screeching with all her might. Nestled among those beautiful flowers, my insidious attempt to hydrate was a threat and more than her little heart could bear. She lighted on the fence and spent a few minutes scolding me for getting close to her nest. I was clearly told to leave it alone because I was danger.
Once we knew there was life inside that basket, we made a more concentrated attempt to keep the beautiful flowers alive without disturbing Ms. Bird. We would wait for her to leave, and occasionally find her chattering on the nearby fence if she felt our appointment was over.
This weekend, during one of her scoldings, we carefully approached the basket to find this beautiful nest.
Nestled in among the pink, was a home that was being cared for and protected. A miracle in the making.
My thoughts have turned the past few days to the words of Scripture in its references to these small creatures that live amongst the trees and flowers. In Matthew we hear God’s urgency when he tells the disciples, “Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather in barns, and your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26)
During these uncertain times, I have struggled to be at peace in my heart. But I am learning the most effective weapon I have is the power of prayer. In those quiet moments, I can speak to the living God and petition Him to send a fleet of protection that will surround my own nest just like those beautiful flowers.
Our faith rests on the belief that God will faithfully protect and defend those who belong to Him. He assures us over and over that we are loved, we are secure, and in Him we find peace, forever.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
What about you, Sweet Reader? Are you needing peace in your own heart over the “nest” God has given you to guard? Continue to pray. God brings protection and miracles in the most unlikely ways.
Lord Jesus, Thank you for reminders that you care about the littlest details in our lives. Continue to surround us with your peace and love. Helps us to lean in and listen to your heart and watch for the miracles that show us you are still at work. Thank you that we can pray and trust in your protection all of our days. Amen
Love You!
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