As I reflect on the journey of an eagle, I am reminded of a profound lesson embedded in the rhythms of nature. When the young birds reach the age to fly, the mother eagle begins “stirring up the nest.” With her sharp talons, she brings the thorns and rocks to the surface, moving away the comfortable feathers and wool. This seemingly harsh act is a powerful metaphor for the seasons in our lives when God stirs our nest.
In these times, it’s not uncommon to feel that we have overstayed our welcome in a particular season of life. Comfort and familiarity can create a cozy nest, but they can also become the chains that bind us to a place where we no longer grow. Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you felt too comfortable or perhaps even stuck? Fear of the unknown can make us cling to what we know, even when it’s clear that God is calling us to spread our wings and soar into a new season.
As the saying goes, “People don’t normally change until the pain of staying the same exceeds the pain of change.” This truth becomes evident when God begins to stir our nest, urging us to embrace the discomfort and step into the new opportunities He has for us.
God’s Loving Discomfort: A Preparation for Growth
In His infinite wisdom, God sometimes allows discomfort to enter our lives. It might be through challenging circumstances, changes in relationships or work, or a stirring restlessness in our hearts. This discomfort is not meant to punish us but to prepare us for greater heights. Just as the mother eagle knows that her young must learn to fly to survive and thrive, God knows we must embrace new challenges to grow in our faith and fulfill our purpose.
Not Every Difficulty is a Sign to Move On
However, it’s important to remember that not every difficulty is a sign to move on. Sometimes, God uses challenges to draw us closer to Him and to refine our character. It is in these moments of hardship that we have the opportunity to lean into God’s orchestration and deepen our reliance on Him. Discerning whether God is calling us to move forward or stay put requires prayer, wisdom, and trust in His plan.
Biblical Insights: Isaiah 40:31
Consider Isaiah 40:31, which beautifully illustrates this concept: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This passage speaks to the renewal and strength that comes from trusting in God. It serves as a reminder that when God stirs our nest, He equips us with the strength and courage to soar to new heights under His guidance.
Facing Life’s Challenges: Are You Staying Too Long?
Consider the times when life has become more difficult when the thorns and sharp rocks of trials have surfaced. Have you questioned why you must face these challenges? Have you stayed in a place longer than you should have because of fear or comfort? These are the moments when God is stirring your nest, urging you to step out in faith.
Embracing New Seasons with Courage and Faith
Embracing a new season requires courage and trust in God’s plan. It means letting go of the familiar and stepping into the unknown, confident that God’s grace will sustain you. Remember, the eagle’s flight begins with a leap of faith from the safety of the nest. Similarly, our spiritual growth often requires us to leap into new opportunities, trusting that God will catch us and lift us higher.
Conclusion: Trusting God’s Stirring
If you find yourself in a season of stirring, ask yourself: Have I stayed too long in this place? Is God calling me to move forward? Embrace the change with faith, knowing that God’s purpose for you is far greater than the comfort of your current nest. As you navigate through the challenges and uncertainties, remember that each thorn and sharp rock is part of God’s loving preparation, shaping you for the glorious heights He has in store for you.
May you find the courage to trust God’s stirring, the strength to soar into the new season He has prepared for you, and the wisdom to discern His guidance in every difficulty.
