A Time of Spiritual Molting

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

If you're like most of us, this past year has left us feeling stuck in one place. Forward momentum has been replaced with chaos, detours and roadblocks. Perhaps we can take some inspiration of how to cope from God's creation.

This beautiful bird is a juvenile Anhinga. I captured this pic last year while we were at Huntington Beach State Park in SC.

He’s actually experiencing a fairly difficult time in his life, because he’s in the middle of one of his first molts. You can tell because the coloring on his neck is that dusky brown-gray and we can see the tiny feathers sticking out at odd angles on his neck. 

Anhinga’s are water fowl and that means when they molt they’re stuck in one place because they’re unable to fly effectively. They can make it from one branch to another, but beyond that, they’re locked into a single environment. 

But this young fellow appears totally unconcerned. I caught this picture while he was sunning himself and enjoying the unseasonably warm February weather.

Molting is a natural—necessary process—for all birds. And it’s one that’s critical for the bird to stay healthy. 

We can also experience a season of spiritual molting. God pulls out the old and unhealthy feathers and replaces them with new stronger quills. At times He even strands us in a certain place or time, forcing us to stay put as we wait for the new growth to take over and enable us to once again fly strong. 

I can definitely use this bird as an example of calm acceptance when I’m stranded in a season of waiting.

Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord! Psalm 27:14

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Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.