ut the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:11)

We can learn much from God's wonderful creation. Think of geese, for instance. When a flock of geese takes flight, it forms a V-formation. Each flap of a goose's wing creates an uplift of air for the goose behind it, which helps make for an easier, smoother and quicker flight.

As Christians, we, too, should begin with a V-formation: V for victory in and through Christ and V for the vision he provides for us. We know we can trust his hand upon our lives and should follow his lead and his will.

When a goose falls out of the formation, it immediately struggles; unaided by the air current, the flight forward becomes difficult and strenuous. Similarly, when a person strays, the way can be difficult, dark, frightening and dangerous. No one can or should do it alone all the time. We need each other and, above all, we need God.

When geese take flight, one goose takes the lead; however, it doesn't always fly the point position. When it gets tired from its awesomely important yet demanding job, the lead goose moves back in formation while another moves up in front, allowing the leader to rest before the leader returns to the point.

God commands us to respect and be obedient toward our leaders. We demonstrate respect and obedience by supporting their efforts, realizing they, too, have basic needs; providing them room to be leaders; and praying for them.

Offer to help leaders with simple tasks so they may concentrate on bigger tasks. Allow them to rest their wings when they need to, yet not worry. How can you help your leaders today?

When a goose falls out of formation because it is ill or, perhaps, shot down by a hunter, two other geese leave the formation to be with the injured or sick goose. They remain by its side until it can fly or until it dies. Only then will they either join another formation or begin to catch up with their flock.

We need each other, especially during this day and age, when there is an increasing threat of war, disease, hardship - and when our freedom to be a Christian in today's society is in question by people or groups who choose not to believe in our loving God.

Each one of us can make a difference when others lose their way, get sick, or face challenges or hardship - even if it means leaving the comfort of our surroundings or adjusting our schedules. God is always there and will provide us the time, strength and all of whatever is needed to help us make a difference in others' lives.