Day 5
Reading: Genesis 1:20–23; Job 39:26–30
SOAP: Job 39:26–27
Is it by your understanding that the hawk soars, and spreads its wings toward the south? Is it at your command that the eagle soars, and builds its nest on high?
Devotion:
The creation account recorded in Genesis 1 describes seven days of creation. In the first three days God created the heavens and the earth, the waters, and the land. On days four, five, and six God filled what He created on days one, two, and three. On the fifth day God created fish and birds. He filled the water with living creatures, commanding them to be fruitful and multiply. He filled the sky with birds, also commanding them to be fruitful and multiply.
God displayed His great care and provision to Job when He reminded him of the birds of prey. It is by His understanding that the hawk soars. It is by His command that an eagle flies and builds its nest. God provides food for the eagle and its young, showing her where to look for prey.
In Isaiah 40:31 God reminded the people of Judah to wait for Him, finding renewed strength in Him. They would be able to soar as if they had wings like an eagle if they would wait for Him.
In Matthew 6:25–34 Jesus told His followers not to worry. He reminded them of the birds of the air, for whom He always provides. If He has a purpose and intent in creating a bird, whom we often see as insignificant, He indeed has a purpose and intent for each of us.
Once again, God’s creativity and intentionality are displayed through His creation. He created everything with purpose, even the birds. He allows us to see glimpses of His purposes for creation when He instructs us by it. And in the same way He provides for and cares for these birds, He will provide for and care for you and me.
Prayer:
Father God, You are good. Help me remember Your compassion and care for me when I see the birds. Let me be like the birds, not worrying about what I will eat, but confident You will provide what I need when I need it. Help me trust and rely on You and You alone. Amen.