SEEING GOD IN NATURE

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard” – Psalm 19:1-3.

Periodically, we all need a respite from everyday life. We can benefit from spending time alone in nature with the Lord. This is why so many great writers, poets, and songwriters have spent time in nature. Nature allows us to realign, readjust, and reacquaint ourselves with God. God’s creation affords us a chance to think, contemplate, reflect, and pray. Nature is a reflection of God and is a testament to His power, creativity, and love.

One of the most compelling reasons people are drawn to the Emerald Coast is its natural beauty, characterized by pristine white sand beaches and clear, emerald-green waters. Beyond the beaches, the area boasts unique coastal dune lakes, picturesque dunes, and charming coastal towns. The Emerald Coast, like so many beautiful places around the world, is a tremendous gift from God.

It is said that an artist creates from the beauty within. Similarly, the beauty of the natural world reveals the beauty of the God who created it. Nature can be seen as a silent preacher.  Everything from the tiniest insect to the most majestic mountain, indeed all created things, demonstrates the unity and harmony of God’s wonderful creation. The beauty we see in nature all came from God and was perfectly and intentionally designed by Him and Him alone.

The solitude of time spent in nature offers us an opportunity for prayer and meditation, free from the distractions of daily life. We can focus our minds and hearts on God. Jesus Himself often withdrew to lonely places to pray. He gave us an example to follow. In these quiet moments, we can pour out our hearts to God, seek His guidance, and listen for His voice. Spending quiet time in nature may be all you need to begin feeling closer to God.

God’s gifts to us are never-ending. His presence can be seen and felt anywhere. Our planet is filled with creation that reflects God’s character, creativity, and His ultimate design.

Job 12:7-10 tells us, “Just ask the animals, and they will teach you. Ask the birds of the sky, and they will tell you. Speak to the earth, and it will instruct you.  Let the fish in the sea speak to you. For they all know that my disaster has come from the hand of the Lord. For the life of every living thing is in his hand, and the breath of every human being”.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does the beauty and intricacy of the natural world point to God’s creative power and design? 
2. How can spending time in nature help us feel closer to God and experience His presence? 
3. What specific aspects of nature (e.g., a sunset, a mountain range, a tiny flower) particularly resonate with your sense of God’s presence?