Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man that wanders from his home. Proverbs 27:8, TLV
Wanderers. What a vivid picture this proverb provokes. A bird that flies too far from the safety of its home leaves itself vulnerable to predators.
That analogy for us is sobering. When we stray from the safety of the LORD’s loving embrace, we leave ourselves open to the greatest predator—the enemy of our souls. The one who robs, steals, and destroys (John 10:10).
There is another level to this analogy. The bird who strays too far from its nest leaves its young unprotected.
When we stray — when we sin — there can be repercussions for our family. Sins like adultery, theft, fraud, and murder understandably will have outcomes that affect our spouse, parents, or children and loved ones.
But, what about taking the LORD’s name in vain, envy, disrespecting our elders or leaders, not honoring the Sabbath? These sins are more subtle yet can also have long-term effects on our family. At the very least set a wrong example for those around us.
My takeaway from this verse is that my straying — no matter how “big” or “small” the sin
— can affect others more vulnerable. Those we should protect. It reminds me of what Jesus said:
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who trust in Me to stumble, it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck and to be sunk in the depth of the sea!” (Matthew 18:6, TLV)
That alone should make us all think twice before flying too far from the nest.
