A Lesson on Giving from Birds

Daily Devotional – Friday, June 7, 2024
The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.
Proverbs 11:25 (NKJV)

One of the most memorable nature videos I have ever watched is that of young birds feeding ageing ones. Apparently, when birds grow old and are unable to fend for themselves, the young generation assumes the responsibility of fending for the elders. What a powerful lesson on giving from birds!

In the Generosity Classroom

Interestingly, birds feed their chicks out of their instincts and the deep connection they share with their offspring. They expect nothing in return. They fly away often from the nest, exposing themselves to many risks, but they ensure they bring food back to the helpless chicks.

Apparently, the young do not forget the labours and goodwill of their parents, and they reciprocate at the right time. The two generations appear to live by the age-old wisdom of the Bible: “He who waters will also be watered himself” (Proverbs 11:25). The younger birds will themselves be fed when they age!

A Lesson on Giving from Birds

God is a giver, and He designed our lives in a way that requires giving. The more we give to others, even when we don’t expect anything in return, the more we can expect to receive. According to the apostle Paul, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35).

When we give our material possessions, time, and service and perform other acts of kindness, God will repay us in kind at the right time. Like the ageing birds, the good we do now will come back to us when we really need help. Today, make sure you plant seeds of kindness so that you may reap the fruit later in life.

Prayer
Dear God, always remind me that what I give today is my investment for the future.