Deuteronomy 31:8 – Indeed, the Lord is the one who will keep on walking in front of you. He'll be with you and won't leave you or abandon you, so never be afraid and never be dismayed. (ISV)

I enjoy watching the ducks and geese that frequently visit the pond across the street from my home. This year, I took the cutest picture of four goslings all lined up in a row following their mother as she led them into the water. For a moment, I wondered what kept these babies from wandering away. Then later, I learned of a phenomenon known as "imprinting".

In the wild, this experience allows birds and other animals to form a bond and to identify with their parents, as well as with other members of their own species. Interestingly, goslings are imprinted the moment they hatch to follow the first moving object they see, which in most cases is their mother.

This idea provides a wonderful demonstration for today's Scripture. Baby geese naturally become attached the moment they hatch to the one who can protect and teach them how to survive in a dangerous environment. Likewise, believers in Christ also follow the One Who is their guardian and defender, trusting that He alone will lead them to safety.

The Lord promised that He will never abandon us no matter what our circumstances may be:

Isaiah 49:15 – Can a woman forget her nursing child, or have no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these mothers may forget; But as for me, I'll never forget you! (ISV)

What great promises to contemplate, especially in difficult times! Moreover, consider how God provides many illustrations in nature to teach us important biblical truth.

Prayer: Lord, according to Your promise, lead us in the path of life. Imprint upon our hearts the desire to walk in Your ways, to know Your voice, and to seek refuge in none other than You. In Jesus' holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lori Ciccanti <dlalsina@mchsi.com>
Ocean View, Delaware, USA
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