Black Birds

BLACK BIRDS

Black birds at our feeder could symbolize sin and its insatiable pull in our lives.  Shoo it away and before you know it, it's baa--ck.  Although this is a photo of a Raven sculpture in Loveland, Colorado, black birds crowd around our feeder when we put certain types of seeds in them. 

If you use cheap seed - symbolizing careless habits -- it actually draws them to the feeder.  Before you know it, flocks are descending on your life, scaring away the gentle songbirds and devouring time and talent, peace and purpose. There are numerous warnings in God's Word about how we should live our lives, here are a few:

--"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil" Ephesians 5:15-16
--"I say then: walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" Galatians 5:16
--"Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men; according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ" Colossians 2:8
--"Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin" James 4:17.

There are times, however, that even when we put the best seed in our feeders, flocks of black birds will still descend and try to take over the feeding stations.  When that happens, we have to be careful what type of seed and what type of feeders we leave hanging on the pole.  It all comes down to being careful and using the elements wisely. 

The same is true in our spiritual life.  Even times when we are living close to the Lord, the enemy will swoop down and try to take over.  Thankfully, our Lord is still in control and if we are careful to follow the steps He gives in His Word (read all of Ephesians 6), He has promised to scatter the enemy and give us victory.  "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil" Ephesians 6:10-11.