Peanut Wars

For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. Psalm 50:10 (KJV)

The last thing in the world that I need to do is buy peanuts for the numerous squirrels and birds at the feeders. They do get pushy with each other but are generally content with corn, sunflower seeds, and fruits and nuts mixed in with generic food. However, Shirley Raye Remond (All God’s Creatures) has a clear and insightful message for us today.

*****

When my husband brought home a fifty-pound bag of unshelled peanuts from the feed store, he had no idea we’d be starting a battle in the backyard. After I filled the platform feeder with peanuts, it didn’t take long before the acorn woodpeckers and scrub jays discovered the treat. That’s when the peanut war began. The birds didn’t want to share. They continually swooped into the feeder, flapping their wings and squawking to scare off others. If a chickadee ventured too close, a woodpecker would dive bomb the little bird until it flew away. When a Steller’s jay helped itself to a peanut, the swift attack by a bolder bird prompted the timid jay to drop the peanut and flee.

Amused and exasperated, I placed my hands on my hips, declaring loudly, “There’s enough for everybody. Stop fighting!” The birds couldn’t possibly know I had the capacity to keep providing peanuts, even after the first big bag had been emptied. There was no reason for them to be so selfish and territorial.

The Lord used this incident to bring home a valuable lesson to my husband and me—one which we shared with our grandchildren: God is able to provide for all our needs. Jesus advised His disciples not to worry about what they would eat or drink or wear (Matthew 6:25). There is no need to worry about getting “our share.” As one pastor recently quipped, “If the Lord owns cattle on a thousand hills, don’t you trust Him to slip you a burger now and then?”

I’m comforted realizing that God has and will continue to bless me richly with all good things. I can be a cheerful giver and share what I have. There’s no need to squabble and bicker. I trust Him. You can too.

Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength.

Corrie Ten Boom

 He Owns the Cattle on a Thousand Hills

Father, Your loving care is beyond our comprehension. We don’t thank You enough for all the blessings You bestow upon us. Teach us to be more grateful for Your provisions. AMEN.

Photo: Michael Johnston