Read: Job 12
Nature is one of God’s wonderful creations. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Through the beauty, power, and majesty of God’s creation the Lord is able to speak to us, provide for us, and teach us of his almighty goodness. It’s impossible for anyone to visit all of the magnificent natural wonders that this earth has to offer but by surrounding ourselves with reminders of those we can offer praise to our almighty creator.
In Job 12 we are reminded that even in the midst of difficult times, loss, and turmoil we can allow nature to speak of God’s goodness, care, and love for us. Job gives testimony that we can learn things from God’s creation; that God’s wisdom and power can be seen in the earth, sky, and sea; and that God’s power is proclaimed through majestic mountains, beautiful valleys, and expansive waterfalls. In the midst of his loss and pain Job praised God because of what he saw around him. It was awesome.
How can you surround yourself with God’s beauty in the midst of a cold, barren winter in Central Illinois? I have found several ways that I would like to share with you. You can set your computer screen saver to show magnificent pictures of nature from around the world (webshots.com). You can rotate the screen of your smartphone with some pictures and reminders of natural wonders. You can find books or magazines that show God’s handiwork from around our world. Perhaps you have found other ways to surround yourself with God’s beauty?
Everyone may not share my specific love of nature and God’s creation, but all of us can use it as a reminder of God’s sovereign power in this world. God is the creator, sustainer, provider, and almighty Lord of our lives and our world. As Job testifies of creation in verse 9, “which of all of these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?” To our God we give praise!
Make it Personal: Find ways to appreciate the many wonders of nature in your world. Give praise to God for those blessings and also do your part in sustaining and maintaining them for future generations. God has told us to care for this earth that he has created and we must do our part in fulfilling that command.
Have a magnificent week everyone, Pastor Glen Rhodes
