Reindeers are one of the most fascinating animals to me. They are called ‘caribou’ in North America. They live in some of the harshest environments on earth. They are a symbol of endurance, community, and quiet strength. Each year, the reindeer journeys across thousands of miles, braving icy winds and endless nights. Yet it never travels alone. It moves with its herd, pressing forward as a team. They shed and regrow their antlers every year. For the males, its after mating season, while females keep theirs during winter. Antlers begin as soft, fuzzy structures covered in a layer of skin called “velvet,” which contains blood vessels and nutrients for rapid growth. As the antlers reach their full size, the blood supply to the velvet decreases, and the antlers harden. The reindeer then rubs off the dried velvet against rocks or trees, revealing the solid, hard antler underneath. This is a bloody yet necessary process. James 1:2 encourages believers to find joy in trials and hardships. This is in no means because the trials are pleasant however like the reindeer, they are necessary. Challenges, sometimes bloody, but at the end, produces maturity, endurance, and steadfastness.
As a people, we experience varying seasons in life. Sometimes we are on the mountain and other times we are in the valley but i’m reminded in Hebrews 13:5b-6 that God will never leave us nor forsake us. We can confidently say that He is our Helper. We all started as ‘babes’ in Christ which desires the sincere milk of the word to ensure that we are growing steadily in the Word of God. As we grow up (mature), the following are lessons we can learn from the reindeer: We experience seasons of scarcity and struggle. Life sometimes feel like we too are digging through snow to find the basic necessities of life. Like the reindeer with sharp senses, warm coats, and the determination to go; we are given the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to navigate our own journey. We are guided by the Word of God and the eye of the Lord (Psalm 119:105, Psalm 32:8).
Here are a few lessons from the reindeer:
- Adaptability – We are kept steady in changing times (Philippians 4:11-13)
- Community – Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17)
- Perseverance – Carries us toward God’s promises (Romans 5:3-4)
- Sensitivity – We are guided by the Holy Spirit when the path seems dim (John 16:13)
- Leadership – Within the herd leadership shifts depending on conditions. (Numbers 27:15-23; Deuteronomy 3:28; Joshua 1:1-18)
- Resourcefulness – Reindeers dig in the snow to find food. Believers are given all they need for life and Godliness (2 Peter 1:3)
In concluding, the life of the reindeer shows truth and authenticity. God has provided all we need to walk in His truth, to endure, grow and to be ready for His return. You might be struggling with the changes in your life. It might be devastating, crippling and stressful. However, be reminded that you are not alone, God is with you. All you need to succeed are already provided. Could it be that you are looking in the wrong direction? Are you trying to weather the storm alone? Remember God is only a call away. Your struggles, pain, and or distress are seasonal , they are like nutrients to your growth and development. They are but to make you stronger and i implore you not to pray away your process of refinement but to endure because your character is being formed as your hope in Christ is renewed.
More Grace.
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