Our help is in the name of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 124.8 (NIV)
The other day I was sitting at my computer when out of nowhere I glanced out the window and caught a glimpse of something I had never seen in our yard before.
First one.Then two, and suddenly a small flock of six were hopping from one pile of leaves to another, just a few yards away.
You see, they were not just ordinary birds. They were bluebirds.
What’s the big deal, you ask?
The thing was, these creatures' magnificent bright blue colors on top of the shriveled up brown leaves, made them look so stunning, and out of place.
Which led me to thinking how you and I can easily feel out of place, too. You know, when you walk into a meeting unprepared, but all dressed up, and realize everyone else already submitted their ideas, and had gotten the memo to wear jeans, but you hadn’t? Or when you and I get caught in awkward situations with colleagues, friends, or even our own families, where everyone stops talking when you enter the room? Or worse yet, the conversations become too dark, too political or too controversial, and rubs you the wrong way, making you want to jump out of your own skin?
The question becomes, how do you and I get through this?
Yes, there have been situations where you and I have dismissed remarks, walked out, or kept our mouths shut. There have even been times when I, and perhaps you, too, have wanted to spread your wings, and fly far, far away, and bury your head in a nest somewhere, and not have to deal with certain conversations.
As women you and I have been taught to submit, and not rock the boat.
However, just as I felt compelled to take a closer look as the bluebirds hopped upon the crisp fallen leaves, and later as they took flight from the ground to flit and flutter from one nearly bare branch to another, I am now sensing that same nudge - a stronger push actually, to deal with tough things.
It was as though these birds were messengers of hope, and reminded me that a leap of faith changes everything. You and I are called to spread our wings, and rise above the pulse of earthly humor, and half glass thinking.
The good news is we never have to do anything alone.
“Our help is in the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 124:8).
Jesus promised his disciples, and all of us, the gift of the Holy Spirit saying,
“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will send you another advocate to help you and be with you forever–the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you” (John 14: 15-17).
The gift of the Holy Spirit speaks in and through us. The next time we are feeling out of place, (or need assistance in any way), we can rest assured that the Spirit of the Living God will direct our path.
All we have to do is invite God in. Then with inner wisdom and grace, ever so gently with conviction we can make a point or like the bluebirds first one, then two points and maybe even three or more.
The Spirit of God himself was sent to help, encourage, and guide our steps, and will never let us down.
Living for an audience of One changes everything.
Until next time…
May the Spirit of God lead you, the Word of God sustain you, and the promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.
Love and blessing.
Let me know how the power of God is working in your life at sue@faithfirstwomen.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Author of Nourish Your Soul: 7 Secrets for Women Seeking Peace