"By them [springs of water] shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches." Psa. 104:12.
Two questions are frequently asked about the migration of birds: where do they get strength for such flights? and how do they find their way?
For any of them, whether a small hummingbird or a large goose, to fly non-stop over a wide ocean certainly takes a great deal of strength and could not be done if the Creator did not give them a terrific hunger long before such a trip takes place. Eating great quantities of extra food provides an unusual layer of fat (sometimes doubling their weight) which becomes all the "fuel" needed for strength while traveling. Isn't this a wonderful provision of the One who always has them in His care?
The question, "How do they find their way?" remains unanswered, although researchers try hard to find out. But all they can do is make some guesses -one of which is that the birds are guided by the sun and perhaps have a hidden compass inside them. But this raises a new question: how are they able to find their way when the sun is hidden by fog or clouds? Another guess is that when flying at night they are guided by the moon and stars. But again, what do they do when these are not visible?
Still another guess is that their routes are learned from the parents. But then we ask, what about those that fly away and leave their young ones to follow later? Then, some birds have been carried from one side of the Atlantic Ocean to the other side and raised there until released at migration time. How do these find an entirely new route to the same destination as their former companions? Similar tests have been made by taking certain eggs to distant countries, hatching and releasing them at the migratory period. These birds, too, find their way without difficulty.
It must be admitted that wonderful controls are at work in the heads of these birds, and the most dedicated researcher may never come up with a true explanation. We know the real answer lies with the Lord God who gives them these abilities and implants needed guidance and wisdom in their heads, so that they adjust to any unusual circumstance. Certainly, these migrations are indeed one of the outstanding wonders of God's creation.
Another very special wonder is that He invites every boy and girl, every man and woman, to come to heaven when life here on earth is finished. The Lord said when He was here, "I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2,32In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2‑3). This is His promise to everyone who comes to Him as a helpless sinner and accepts Him as their personal Savior. Have you answered His invitation?