“He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves and it was completely calm.” Matthew 8:26
I watched from my window as the trees swayed with the windy day. My eye caught a remarkable sight. I watched as this bird perched high above the others clung to the branch he was on in a large evergreen tree. The tree swayed feverishly caught in the gust of the wind. He did not budge…he hung on despite the moving branch. I thought about how small he was and how dainty his strength compared to the strength of the wind, yet he was able to hang on never-the-less. Today my petty worries were getting the best of me. Thoughts of fears about my children, finances, and minor difficulties were festering at me like the wind. These thoughts were blowing through my mind making me fearful, and pecking at an otherwise glorious day. As I watched that bird hanging onto that branch, I thought about how I should hang on with faith, despite the windy thoughts blowing through my mind. To have faith that the Lord is in charge and I have no reason to be fearful. That little bird did not look afraid, in fact I am sure that the lack of fear helped him to withstand the heavy wind. Some days like today, thoughts that should make me fearful and fret need to be ignored. I need to be just like that little bird and hang onto the branch in faith and know that the Lord will provide. I need to present my worries to the Lord and dwell on the things I am thankful for today. I must pray believing that He has already answered my prayer and give thanks instead of giving way to worry and fret.By being thankful and singing praise, I will still the winds of negative thoughts and regain my perspective. Perhaps then I too can cling to my branch despite the winds of adversity threatening to take away my joy.
“He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.” Luke 8:25
What a great light you are, Karen. I am encouraged and inspired by your wise and beautiful writing.