Spring is the time for birds to return. Not only does their flight gather our fancy, but the realization of how many different kinds there are. Since they cannot hibernate, they must seek warmer climates during the winter. But spring brings the promise of new life with the birds returning to our area.

There were many times during our adoption that we worried over the decisions made by our sons. We prayed and hoped for them to come back to us, so that we could coach them. Yet, the hope of their coming back to us each time was validated in our patient waiting and praying. They learned how to “roost” by themselves.

God also sees when we choose to wander away from Him, even if it is for a season. He continues to love us and want us to come back to Him and His mercy and love. Is it because of shame that we fail to do so? It took a long time for the prodigal son in Luke 15 to come to his senses, and yet we are told that he did. The warmth of God’s fellowship beckons us. Does He feel the same about us when we return as we do when the birds come back?

You may be worried and wondering about an adopted child who is going through a period of withdrawal or rebellion. The first question to ask is whether he or she is truly a child of God. If so, God will lead your child back to Himself. Pray for and claim this in the name of Jesus. If God could cause the conversion of Saul, he could orchestrate the conversion of anyone! God is much more of loving Father than we can be to our children.

Are you personally in a season of doubt like the harsh winter that drives hope away? Realize that if you have put your trust in Jesus, you are an adopted child of your Heavenly Father. Fly back to Jesus. The springtime freshness that only God can provide will restore your hope, so put your confidence in Him. Please comment in the comment box below with ways you have seen God refresh you as you wait on Him.