Thanks to inventor Hans Busch, physicist Ernst Ruska, and electrical engineer Max Knoll, we’ve enjoyed the benefits of their invention, the electron microscope, since 1931.
With its superior magnification power (up to 10,000,000x), scientists can capture images like those below. See if you can identify the object in each photo.
(Photo #1–the cross section of a plant stem; Photo #2–butterfly eggs; Photo #3–butterfly scales; Photo #4–olivine (rock); Photo #5–tomato plant leaf; Photo #6 rose petal.)
“The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
–Psalm 19:1
First, the heavens include our planet, of course. And everything on the earth and in it also tells of the glory of God.
Second, what exactly is the glory of God? Theologian Charles Ryrie described it as “the manifestation of any or all of God’s attributes on display.” Puritan preacher Thomas Watson said it’s “the sparkling of the Diety.” I love that, don’t you?
Just in those few microscope-images above we see evidence of his dazzling wisdom—in the design of a plant stem that moves water and nutrients upward against gravity to the leaves. And then the products produced by photosynthesis in the leaves are taken back through the stem to other parts of the plant, including the roots.
We see evidence of God’s stunning artistry in those butterfly eggs with the eye-catching ridges.
And we see his creative use of shape and color in the butterfly scales, the olivine sample, the tomato leaf, and rose petal.
Billions more examples can be found all across our varied planet, manifesting his goodness in the variety of plants, animals, landforms, and more that he’s given us to use and enjoy.
I wonder—do you suppose God smiled when he created those tiny eggs with dozens of ridges? That tomato leaf with hundreds of sprouts? (No wonder they feel rough to the touch!) That rose petal embroidered with ovals? Did he smile to think about the day when someone would discover the infinitesimal splendor he’d designed eons before?
And yet, even more astounding than the magnificence of God revealed in nature is God’s glory revealed in you and me.
All of us, then, reflect the glory of the Lord with uncovered faces;
and that same glory, coming from the Lord, who is the Spirit,
transforms us into his likeness in an ever greater degree of glory.
1 Corinthians 3:18 GNT
We’re a bit like those watches with phosphorescent numbers. The more light those numbers absorb, the more they glow.
Similarly, the more we bask in God’s presence through prayer, praise, and worship, the more we’ll manifest the glow of his attributes:
- his perfect wisdom guiding our life choices, what we do, and what we say
- his marvelous artistry in our positive imprint on others
- his divine creativity manifested in the unique shape and color of our gifts and talents
- his absolute goodness in the blessings we bestow to those around us
And imagine our faces, glowing ever brighter as we continually reflect more of the sparkling of our Diety.
What could be more delightful and satisfying?
Photo credits: http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.wikimedia.com (4); http://www.rd.com (2); http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.snappygoat.com; http://www.wikimedia.org; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.maxpixel.freegreatpicture.
From the Inside Out 
My heart is smiling, reading this and enjoying His sparkling with you!
Oh yes–when we sparkle together, that’s the best. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1)! So glad I could make you smile today, Jennifer. Praise God!
Hehe, and now I am smiling again! Yes! We praise You together, Father!
The sparkling of our Deity – oh, how these images reflect this perfectly, Nancy! Honestly, those photos took my breath away. The intricate foundation in every atom of God’s creation is unfathomable. Leaves me where I should be – in complete awe of our Maker.
Blessings, my friend!
So glad the photos left you in complete awe of our Maker, Martha. He IS beyond amazing! Thank you for the blessing also. We enjoyed sunshine today–that was a blessing right there!
I love this post! The sparking of our Diety… I could just see it and soon we will be like Him
To be like Him . . . I can hardly imagine such a concept. But such expectations give us marvelous hope for our glorious future. So glad you loved this post, Brenda. Praise God for his inspiration!
Amazing – and beautiful! Thanks for sharing these.
Thank you, Annie! You are so welcome. It was great fun hunting down the best images out of what’s available for free use!
Lovely post! Oh, the unseen beauty of His creations! I have a renewed appreciation and sense of awe after seeing these pictures. And the phrase…’The sparkling of our Diety’…I love it!
That phrase certainly caught my attention when I first saw it. Glad you love it too, Cheri!
oh wow, love the wonder and beauty in this!
My pleasure to offer up God’s wonder and beauty for your delight, Jean!
What amazing pictures and truths to pause, reflect, and ponder upon!!! Never want to take His creative side for granted!!!❤️
Amen, Alicia. I don’t want to take for granted any of God’s attributes either!
Wonderful writing, Nancy. Thank you for using your gift to keep our eyes on our Sparkling Savior. Keep your blog coming. Love, Nikki
On Thu, Feb 18, 2021 at 4:30 PM From the Inside Out wrote:
> Nancy Ruegg posted: ” Thanks to inventor Hans Busch, physicist Ernst > Ruska, and electrical engineer Max Knoll, we’ve enjoyed the benefits of > their invention, the electron microscope, since 1931. With its superior > magnification power (up to 10,000,000x), scientis” >
Nancy,
When trouble comes and the world wears on us remembering God has already been at work brings great comfort.
Have s great week. In Christ,
Gary
Amen, Gary. There is great comfort in knowing our all-wise and omnipotent God can and will ALWAYS accomplish what’s best.
So beautiful! You can’t hide His light!
A mind-boggling privilege we enjoy, reflecting his glory! Thank you for stopping by and commenting, Beth.
Beautiful, Nancy. ❤
Thank you, Anna!