Under His Wings: Lessons from the Mama Hen’s Protection
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There is something profoundly comforting about the image of a mama hen sheltering her chicks under her wings during a storm. It’s a picture of safety, care, and unwavering protection that resonates deeply with us, especially in times of trial. As I reflect on this, I can’t help but draw parallels to God’s tender care for us, a theme that echoes throughout Scripture. In this post, I’d like to explore the lessons we can learn from the mama hen and how these lessons point us to the heart of our Heavenly Father.
A Shelter in the Storm
When storms roll in, a mama hen instinctively gathers her chicks under her wings. This act of love and sacrifice reminds me of Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” In our storms—whether they are challenges at work, health struggles, or spiritual battles—God invites us to take refuge under His protective wings.
The hen’s wings are strong yet gentle, just like God’s strength is unmatched, and His gentleness meets us in our vulnerability. Jesus Himself used this imagery when lamenting over Jerusalem: “How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing” (Matthew 23:37). His longing to protect us is deeply personal and relational.
Lessons in Trust
For the chicks, being under their mother’s wings is an act of trust. They don’t question whether they will be safe; they simply trust her. Similarly, we are called to trust in God’s provision and protection. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Yet, how often do we hesitate, choosing instead to face the storm on our own? The mama hen reminds us that true safety comes from surrendering to God’s care. When we trust Him, we find peace, even in life’s fiercest storms.
Sacrificial Love
A mama hen’s act of sheltering her chicks is not without cost. She exposes herself to the elements, the predators, and the danger to ensure her little ones are safe. This sacrificial love mirrors the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
The love of the mama hen points us to the love of Christ—a love so selfless and enduring that it would face death to save us. This realization compels us to live in gratitude and to love others sacrificially, as Jesus commanded in John 13:34-35.
Lessons in Community
Another powerful lesson is the importance of staying close to the protector and to the community. Chicks that wander away from the hen’s wings are at greater risk of danger. In the same way, we are called to stay close to God and to our spiritual community. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Being part of the body of Christ strengthens us. It’s under the “wings” of God’s church that we find accountability, encouragement, and support during life’s storms.
The Storm Will Pass
Finally, the mama hen’s actions remind us that storms don’t last forever. They come, but they also go. The protection offered under her wings is not just about survival but also about preparing for the moment when the sun breaks through the clouds again. 2 Corinthians 4:17 offers hope: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
While we wait for the storm to pass, we are reminded that God’s presence is enough. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Like the chicks, we can rest assured that the One who shelters us will also bring us safely through.
How We Can Apply These Lessons
Run to God’s Protection: In times of trouble, don’t hesitate to seek God. Make prayer your first response, not your last resort.
Trust in His Faithfulness: Meditate on Scriptures that remind you of God’s promises and His character.
Embrace Community: Stay connected to your church family, and don’t try to weather storms alone.
Reflect His Sacrificial Love: Look for ways to love and serve others, even when it costs you something.
Remember the Storm Will Pass: Keep an eternal perspective and trust that God’s plan is greater than the trial you face.
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