Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Nature’s Revelation
By Susan Klein

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.”
 Psalm 19:1-4 (NIV)

Who doesn’t enjoy watching the sky fill with blazing oranges and brilliant pinks as the sun sets on a warm summer night? Or driving through the countryside in the fall with a palette of colors splayed across the trees? God definitely delights our senses through His creation. But, have you ever stopped to ponder what He is saying through His creation? The above verse, as well as others in Scripture, allude to the fact that He speaks to us - -  not only through His Word - -  but also through His creation. While admiring its beauty, we should also consider its message.

In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas are trying to lead a group of misguided people away from their idols to the One True God by using nature as an illustration. Paul states, “He has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their season…” (verse 17, NIV) How often do we look at a rainy day as just a spoiler of our outdoor plans? Yet, God is speaking his kindness and compassion by providing the rain for the crops so we don’t go hungry. Conversely, at times, He has withheld rain and caused drought when He is speaking His displeasure with His people.

In Romans 1, Paul informs us that God has made many things about Himself plainly known through His creation, but some just don’t see it or aren’t listening. “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities - - His eternal power and His divine nature - - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made so that men are without excuse.” (verse 20, NIV) How easy it is to get caught up in just enjoying His creation for our own personal pleasure. But God has valuable truths to reveal to us through His creation, if we are willing to listen.

Next time you admire that vibrant rainbow in the sky, ponder what God is speaking to you about His promises. When you gaze at those majestic mountaintops, listen for His voice to reveal His mighty power in your own life. When you hear of a tsunami or tornadoes that ravage towns and villages, ask God what He might be trying to convey through the devastation. He is faithful to answer. “He does not leave Himself without testimony.”

GOING DEEPER:
1. Read the verses below to see how God has spoken through His creation in the past.
2. Determine to seek His voice as you observe His creation in the future.

FURTHER READING:

Susan is married to Mark, and has two adult children. She enjoys teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She is a member of the Peace Team at Oakwood and also co-leads an on-site small group.