A Lesson from Wildlife

We can learn valuable lessons when we take time to observe wildlife.  I recently witnessed an amusing incident and discovered a nugget of truth.

Although our bird feeder is the center of activity each morning, more than birds come for a meal.  Three young squirrels supplement their diet by grazing the area under the feeder.  They find plenty to eat when they scavenge for fallen seeds.

Those three scampered into the area once when a rabbit was eating under the feeder.  Immediately, they defended their territory from the invader.  They joined forces and jumped all over the defenseless creature until it finally gave up and left.

For several mornings, the hungry rabbit sat nearby as the pests enjoyed their feast.  I felt sorry for that timid creature.  I’m sure it wanted to partake of the food, but it had no claws or horns or fangs to protect it from attackers.  The poor animal had to wait until they were gone before it could eat.  I shook my head at this unfair situation.

One day the bunny ate before any other creatures came.  The squirrels soon arrived, ready as usual to remove their competition.  This time, however, the cottontail surprised them.  It stayed motionless until the little bullies were ready to pounce on it.  Then, at the last second, it hopped up in place, looking like a mountain of fur springing out of the ground and growing huge.  The movement terrified the pesky critters.   They quickly scattered, leaving the rabbit to enjoy a leisurely meal.  It certainly had devised a clever and effective way to stop its tormentors.  The next morning at the feeder, all the creatures grazed side by side, eating in peace

At first I assumed the poor animal had no way to defend itself, other than to run away.  I’d never seen a bunny scare its enemies by using its large hind feet to pop up in place like that.  Yet, once again, I am reminded that the Lord has indeed provided exactly what that animal needed.  In the same way, our Heavenly Father equips us to do the task He has for us.  No matter how inadequate we feel at times, we can be sure He’ll provide what we need.  Now that’s encouraging.