“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.” (Psalm 19:1)
Recently our family went on a vacation to a large lake in Virginia where we played on the water, spent time in good conversation, and overall relaxed. It was a much-needed getaway that some friends blessed us with through the use of their lake house.
While we were at the lake enjoying that time together, we were able to experience several moments of beauty throughout the days there — the coolness of the morning from the water nearby to the birds and frogs “singing” and then the sunrises and sunsets that were often stunning. We also enjoyed a short rain. Isn’t it funny how too much of something can actually dampen our day, but something like a quick rain can be enjoyable? The variety of creation was spectacular.
“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.” (Psalm 19:1) In an age of science where it is “modern” to resist the idea of a Creator, I choose to believe the Bible that what has been created must have a Creator. We see his handiwork all throughout the world and, if we can pause long enough to take a breath and consider it, we can give Him thanks and enjoy what He has so wonderfully made.
You may have never been on a vacation or have not been on one for a long time. However, there are so many nature parks in our communities that are there for our enjoyment. Look for a nature reserve or a state park and take even a short walk, taking in God’s beauty and magnificent brushstrokes.
Over the years, I have made it a personal practice to take time to focus on walks through nature and talk with God about my life, my family, my relationship with Him and other things on my mind. In the fast-paced world in which we live, this is good and necessary. While some may consider it unproductive or even lazy, I would argue that this kind of rest and reflection can eventually result in even greater productivity and efficiency within our families and our work. God made us for times like these.
May I make a suggestion? Pull out your calendar or whatever you may use to plan the next few days or weeks ahead, and plan time to take a walk in a different place with lots of nature. You only need about 45 minutes to one hour or so. Then, no matter, how different or uncomfortable it may feel, talk with God. He’s always there waiting for us if we’ll only come to Him.
Jesus said it best in Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
