“Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man who strays from his home.” Proverbs 27:8
Devotional Thought For The Day
All of the commentaries I consulted understand this proverb to be warning us against wandering in general, traveling to far off places, severing one’s family ties and connections, always looking for the next adventure or the “pot of gold.” Some connect such behavior to irresponsibility toward one’s duties and obligations, and discontentment with the “place” God has given us, so that like Eve we are seeking a higher, better, or at least different place and calling in life. 1 Cor. 7:20,23 is often cited: “So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God,” as evidence that we are to be stable and content, persisting in the duties and responsibilities that God has given us.
While this may be good general advice, even a proper warning about the dangers that inhere in travel and adventure, it is not an absolute prohibition against journeys, or even “journeying” as a way of life. After all, Abraham was called to be a “sojourner,” to leave his native land and settle in Canaan. While there he never owned a “homestead,” but was a nomadic shepherd. Likewise, God commanded Jonah to journey to Nineveh. He initially chose a different “cruise,” which didn’t turn out well for him, but he did finally prosper in his work at Nineveh. So also the apostle, again in 1 Cor. 7, indicates that if a slave is able to obtain his freedom he should do so. [1 Cor. 7:21]. The children of Israel journeyed back to Canaan – although their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness was a negative consequence of unbelief and rebellion against God’s Word. Consider also the roaming of the apostle Paul in his ministry. And Scripture describes all Christians as “sojourners” here on earth, “strangers” to the world, not belonging to this present age, but rather members of God’s family and eager to finally come to our heavenly home. [Eph. 2:19; Heb. 11:13; 1 Pet. 2:11]
So a proper understanding of the proverb is nuanced. Not all “wandering” and “journeying” is negative, “straying.” But we are warned against irresponsibility, severing family ties and ignoring our obligations and responsibilities. The worst of this is “straying” from our family ties as Christians, wandering away from the safety and strength of God’s Word and Christ’s sacramental meal of forgiveness and fellowship, and finding a home in the sin and unbelief and apathy toward God of this present fallen world. The Scripture warns that the unbelieving are like “wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.” [Jude 13] Obviously this wandering is not good, nor is it God’s good and gracious will for any of us.
So it is important for us to make our “home” in this world in Christ’s forgiveness, mercy, and love – and among His dear people of faith. In this “nest” we are secure in His grace, strengthened in our faith and trust in Him, and growing in our love and devotion to Him. The more time we spend with Him the less we desire to “stray,” and the more His love blesses us. Obviously this protects us from all danger. And our dear loved ones are blessed by this as well, for as we grow in devotion to God we also grow in devotion to our family, friends, and all for whom we are responsible – to the praise of His glorious grace. God grant such stability and constancy to each of us!
Prayer For The Day
Dear Lord Jesus, You came from Your heavenly home to this world of sin, to be our Savior. You wandered during Your three years of earthly ministry, teaching Your disciples and preparing them for Your death, resurrection, and ascension. Always You remained devoted to Your calling, Your responsibilities, and the good and welfare of Your family and others. Help us to rest ourselves in Your love and in Your salvation, to always stay home with You. Grant also that we grow in our devotion to duty, to love, and to others, especially our family and home and church. Amen.