Under His Wings: What I Learned from God While Watching Birds

by Joy E. DeKok, Cristine Bolley

You don't have to be a dedicated birdwatcher to gain life-changing truths from Under His Wings. This devotional collection is drawn from the world of birds-the same creatures that won't fall to the ground without God's notice. Each selection describes birds in their natural habitats, and makes a spiritual point for humans, who, according to Luke 12, are worth more than "many sparrows." After each devotional are quotes and verses to consider, followed by a "For the Birds" tip- ideas on feeding and caring for birds nearby. Uses Scripture from the NIV, NKJV, Amplified, and Living Bible.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1902

Reviews

[Sharon Ouderkirk]

This short book combines true stories about birds in the backyard with Christian spiritual guidance. Joy DeKok is an avid birder and gardener so she is exquisitely in tune with nature as she finds it around her home and local woods. Like all of us who feed the birds, she gets a kick out of how bossy they are. Whether it is rapping on the window to remind her to give them their treats, or calling for help when a predator is in the yard, the birds act as beauty in the garden, as an insect control team, as a laugh for the day, as an inspiration for how to live a peaceful life. Each story was a true delight and I found myself repeating them to my family. There's the one about the blue jays who give the call of danger, and all the other birds go to higher branches, signalling the dog to come running out into the yard to chase the predator away. Or the bird that made her nest in a neighbour's wreath on the door, adding the orange ribbon from the wreath into the mix. The owner of the house put up a sign that said 'Shhh.. babies sleeping, please use the side door.' Or the oriole who came back for the spring and announced his arrival by rapping on her window looking for grape jelly. These stories radiate with kindness and love for our fellow creatures, and there is not enough of that in this tired world. Christian devotionals are included with each tale, which may not appeal to everyone.

[Poiema]

A birdwatcher writes devotional chapters centered around the antics and habits of her feathered guests. Accessible, rich---- her insights bear the earmark of meditative thought. Each chapter closes with scripture passages and a tip for attracting birds to your own yard.

[Mary]

I received this book as a gift several years ago. I reread it periodically. I love all her stories and observations in just 3 or 4 pages per chapter. It's the kind of book you can pick any chapter and read for enjoyment.

[Barb Blasch]

I loved the beautiful lessons in this book. I bated to see it end.

[Ruth Hoernig]

I was sorry to finish this devotional; in fact I have decided to start at the beginning again. It feeds my soul on many levels and I know I'll learn and see more the second time through.

[Julie]

I loved this precious book and know you will too. Here is my review of Under His Wings.
http://juliesaffrin.com/2013/06/17/ch...