Proverbs 27:8

Like a bird that strays from its nest
    is a man who strays from his home.

The bird’s nest is for protection from predators and shelter from the elements. It is for raising the young in security. The home is also a place of security, trust, and support. Anyone that strays from home will, like a bird, be alone, likely end up lost, and perhaps be prone to danger.

There may come a time when a person appropriately leaves home, to make his or her way in the world. In this instance, the person is moving forward and is well grounded. In a sense, the person is taking “home" with him. But that is different from straying. To move forward is a step of maturity and growth. Straying is moving with no direction. It is a sort of wandering with no purpose. It is usually the result of distraction, losing focus, or of forgetting and even despising home.

Where are you now? Are you hundreds and perhaps thousands of miles away from your “home”? If so, it is important for you to find a new home and family with those who share your same interests and delights in Christ and his Word.

Are you straying? If so, return home or return to the home of Christ’s church. You will never truly stray if you are close to Christ and his church. You will always find a home and family there. The church protects you from the spiritual predators that would prey on your soul; it provides shelter and help from life’s stormy blasts, and it is a secure place for you to grow and prosper in fellowship and service with others.

Come to the place of home where you can be all that God wants you to be and be used by him to help others find home.