Gal 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

“That is one ugly birdhouse, “ I thought, as I took my early morning walk on a new route. “Wonder why the people who own that property don’t do something to spruce the drab birdhouse up? They could sand and paint it, or decoupage a scene on it…something, for goodness sake!” Just as I was mulling over all these constructive critical thoughts in my mind(!), a beautiful bluebird flew out of the above mentioned birdhouse. He soared off into the air, with the beauty of his open wings in full display.

The unattractive appearance of the birdhouse made no difference to that little bird. He saw an appealing place to make his home – to build his nest- and he entered it and did so. Inside the wooden house, the nest is intricately woven and is made of twigs, leaves and a variety of other materials from nature.

Do you know God wants to build His nest of love inside our hearts? The exterior appearance doesn’t matter to Him- whether we are spruced up and beautiful or dried out and weather beaten. When God looks at you, or me, or any of His children, He sees a wonderful place to make His home. He wants to bring us all His attributes, and will build a tightly woven nest of love in our hearts. He will take twigs of compassion, love, joy, patience, peace, gentleness, kindness, goodness and self control, and weave them into a wonderful love nest for our hearts to dwell in. The best component of God’s love is forgiveness. He weaves that twig of forgiveness throughout the entire nest, holding it together. He is ready to forgive all our sins, and this forgiveness we receive allows us to soar to the heights of a personal relationship with Him.

I am so glad God chooses His dwelling place in the hearts of all…. Not just those with polished exterior appearances. For outward appearances and beauty will fade, but the love the Lord has for us never will.

Marion Smith noles65@aol.com