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.
