"HONK" - Lessons Learned From Geese

The Scriptures often point to nature for illustration and wisdom...

Jesus said to look at the birds, consider the lilies - Mt 6:26-28

There are lessons we can learn from geese, that can be applied to our relationships with one another in the church.

GEESE PRACTICE SYNERGY

As each goose flaps its wings it creates an "uplift" for the birds that follow.  By flying in a "V" formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.  By working together in the church we can accomplish much more than we can by working by ourselves.  Jesus sent his disciples out two by two Mk 6:7;

Do we appreciate the wisdom of "flocking together"?

GEESE BENEFIT FROM MUTUAL EDIFICATION

When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.

We should be willing to accept help and give our help to others.  As Christians we should appreciate the value of mutual edification Heb 3:12-14; 10:24-25

GEESE SHARE THE BURDEN

When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.  As with geese, people are interdependent on each other’s skills, capabilities and talents.  As members of the body of Christ, we are to do our part –Ep4:16

How about you?  Are you doing your part in the work of the local church?

GEESE ENCOURAGE THOSE WHO LEAD

The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.  We need to make sure our honking (words) is an encouragement to others.

The purpose of our honking should be to build others up. - Ep 4:29; Col 4:6

GEESE CARE FOR ONE ANOTHER

When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two geese dropout of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again.  We should stand by each other in difficult times as well as when we are strong.  This is also our duty to one another. Ec 4:10; Ga 6:1-2

By instinct, God gave geese the wisdom to succeed in their flight and migration.  By His Word, and by His Creation, God gives us wisdom to succeed in our spiritual journey.

As we work together let us make sure our honking is helpful and not harmful.

 - Dewey Stidham, Jr.