For me, the best way to begin a day is to head outdoors with a journal, pen, and mug of coffee, to watch God make a morning—especially this time of year with its temperate breezes, lush foliage, and dazzling flowers—all enjoyed to the accompaniment of birdsong.
And while soaking in the glory of late springtime, I reaffirm: nature illuminates many glorious truths about our Heavenly Father.
The following impressions come from my journals, as I’ve tried to listen to God while observing various features in my little corner of creation:
LIGHT
Let the golden light of morning remind you of My presence surrounding you, the Light of My Word to counsel, the Light of My joy to give delight, and the Light of My hope to dispel discouragement (1).
SKY
See the cloudless sky soaring into infinity? My love for you is as high as the heavens. And just as the sky is always over you wherever you go, I am always, tenderly watching over you (2).
FOLIAGE
Look closely at the bushes and trees. Note how their thickly-leafed branches create a cathedral of calm amidst urban-frenzy. Within the cool environs, numerous birds and animals find peace and protection.
You can find absolute rest and refuge in Me. Not that trials do not come. But they “cannot penetrate the sanctuary of your soul” when you dwell in My shelter (3).
TREES
As the sun rises, your eyes are drawn to the back-lit leaves of the trees, transformed into glowing, emerald-like jewels. But the trees themselves live unaware of their luminous splendor.
I’ve created My children to also glow with the Light of My Son . Often they’re unaware of the Sonlight radiating through them, but know this: there are those who see and find themselves drawn to My Light as a result (4).
(Please forgive the mixed metaphor—this quote was too good to pass up!)
BIRDS
Let the variety of birds remind you that I value uniqueness. Celebrate who I’ve made you to be: the colors of your personality, the pattern of your life, the song of gifts and talents I’ve given you to share with the world, the habits of goodness I’ve formed in you to impact others.
Join the birds in singing My praise, and keep your heart filled with joy (5).
FLOWERS
Sunbeams now illuminate each flower, so they glow with vibrancy of color. Let the various hues, shapes, and scents remind you of My creativity and care producing beauty in your life—beauty of character.
Like the flowers that keep their faces toward the sun, you also keep yours toward the Son throughout the day (6).
SQUIRRELS
Here come the squirrels, jumping from limb to limb with confidence. You too can live in confidence, because I’ve equipped you to accomplish what I desire for you.
Even when the squirrels walk upside down on a branch, they do not fall. Similarly, I make firm your steps and keep you from falling.
When it’s time to rest, a squirrel can nap on the end of a branch and never concern himself that he might fall or the branch might break—an example of perfect trust. I am your unfailing security; you can trust Me implicitly (7).
Do you see? Right here in your backyard you can: find examples of My wonders, experience Me in the sanctuary of My creation, and behold My power and glory (8).
Let the tranquility and delight of these moments carry you through this day with peace and joy!
Notes
1.Psalm 119:105, 130; 16:11; 62:5-8
2. Psalm 103:11; 121:8; 1 John 4:18
3. Psalm 4:8; 5:11b; 91:1-4, quoted clause from Hannah Whitehall Smith
4. Psalm 34:5
5. Isaiah 43:7; Ephesians 2:10; Titus 2:11-14; Psalm 148:8-13
6. Isaiah 26:3; Hebrews 12:2a; Romans 8:5-6
7. Ephesians 4:12; Hebrews 13:20-21; Psalm 37:24; Jude 1:24
8. Psalm 31:21a; 104:24, 33-34; 63:2
Art & photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; Nancy Ruegg (2); http://www.wikimedia.com (Toby Webster); http://www.pexels.com (Patricia Luquet); http://www.canva.com.
I find God’s presence and solace always when I sit outside on our deck in spring, surrounded by our trees and the songs of the birds all around me. I often think that there is no place I’d rather be in the world.
I loved your post today, Nancy; it made me so grateful for all God has blessed me with. May He never cease to bless you!
I often think of our mutual friend Jean Wise over at http://www.healthyspirituality.org as I enjoy my quiet time outdoors, knowing she’s probably out in her garden delighting in the same. Now I’ll picture you on your deck also, especially since you just included those lovely photos of your little corner of creation! So glad this post brought you joy, Martha. As for your last statement, praise God he IS a God of ceaseless blessing–to all who come to him!
I too see God everywhere in my backyard. Good, thought-provoking post.
Thank you, Robert. Isn’t it a delight to see the evidence of God everywhere? I’m so thankful for the multitude of ways he reveals himself.
Every day-in the wee hours of the morning-my husband and I walk three miles in the neighborhood. Your descriptions of the sights and sounds when the day is beginning are spot on! Thank you, Nancy. 🙂
Good for you, Nancy–taking a nice long walk each morning. This time of year such excursions are lovely–before the heat sets in!
Thank you, Nancy. There’s nothing like a late spring morning. 😊 And yes, God does speak to us in many ways. 💕
You’re welcome, Annie!
Every day is a gift, but the mornings especially reach out with all good things of God. Beautiful post! D.L. Moody’s quote is a blessing.
Thank you, Linda. I’m a morning person too! So glad you liked the Moody quote–even if it didn’t fit with the nature theme of the post! 😁 It certainly spoke to me also.
I actually miss the days when I had to take the kids to school every morning because I would come home and take the dogs for an early morning walk. Since the kids are grown and my husband retired our routine has changed and I don’t get out in the mornings as much.
Retirement does have a way of changing our routines. Perhaps the occasional evening outdoors would work instead? You could watch the fireflies begin their dance!
I still get lots of outdoor time when the weather is good. And have a great appreciation all God’s handiwork. At times I do miss the early mornings though.
Nancy- love this post and all the different aspects of nature that point to the blessings we have as children of God. Made me so thankful for the Lord and to be called His child. God bless you Nancy.
Praise God this post brought you the joy of thankfulness, Manu. As always, I must thank HIM for his inspiration!
We’re tracking together in our writing and reflection today, Nancy. I just love when God does that! And I’ll think of your kind comments about squirrels next time I see one swinging from the bird feeder, enjoying spilling seed all over the ground for his friends to scoop up.
Weekend blessings to you, friend.
Don’t you love it when blogger-friends “just happen” to write about the same topic, the same week? Such fun! As for squirrels and bird feeders, I know the little rascals cause a great deal of frustration, devouring what’s not meant for them and making a mess. We’ve only put up a hummingbird feeder, but had to take it down also. Bees by the dozens were attracted to it, and the poor little hummers didn’t have a chance. No amount of careful cleaning seemed to help either. Thankfully there’s still plenty else to enjoy as we sit on our deck!
You certainly named the elements, Nancy and then to read my name in your comment to Martha. What fun. And then to see you mentioning the squirrels and not the foxes. ha. Now I love the tiny sparrows out my window. They have become braver this year even when I am outside coming nearer. or maybe they are just hungrier. I think nature has no much to teach us; and so does the light!
I was hoping you’d catch the name-dropping, Jean! 😁 The foxes didn’t make the cut because we don’t see them as often, but squirrels are regular visitors, of course! It must be fun to watch those sparrows up close!
I absolutely loved this post!!! Thank you for sharing these verses with us and for sharing your journal reflections. I hope you have an amazing weekend! 🙂 Your post has certainly been a bright start to my weekend…
Thank you Linda. I do try to include related scriptures, in case someone should wonder, “Is that in the Bible?!” So glad you enjoyed the journal reflections! We’re delighting in glorious weather here–the makings for that amazing weekend you mention!
🙂 🙂 🙂
I love that thought – “watch God make a morning.”
Isn’t that a beautiful thought? I love it too!
Hi Nancy,
I am in North Carolina at my brother’s house. Nature is everywhere. So much green. Life, newness. Yes, God’s hand is in it all.
Thanks, Gary
Gary Avants Forbear Productions * *garyavants66@gmail.com garyavants66@gmail.com
Isn’t all the green refreshing? I trust you enjoy a delightful visit with your brother, Gary!
Thank you. You too.
Gary Avants Forbear Productions * *garyavants66@gmail.com garyavants66@gmail.com
Just this evening I saw a video of a peacock spreading its glorious tail feathers. It took my breath away to witness such a beautiful example of the absolute perfection of God’s creation.
You’re right Cheri–a peacock with his feathers fanned out is certainly a splendid example of perfection among God’s creations!
Nancy, each morning I look upon my garden and this place that God gave to us and I see the beauty of His creation. All of creation points to our Creator and it is He that we worship! Love this post!
Oh, yes–It’s obvious from the photos you’ve posted over at your blog, your garden certainly does showcase the beauty of God’s creation. You bring much joy to others as you share scenes from the little Eden you and Butch have created!
I love this! Nature certainly does declare God’s glory. I love how you showed us that truth through your thoughts and insights, and with scripture. Blessings, Nancy!
To ponder creation–even in the backyard–grows our wonder in all that God is and all that God can do. And wonder leads to worship! As I told Linda R. above, I do try to include related scriptures, in case someone should wonder, “Is that in the Bible?!”
This is beautiful Nancy. Thank you!
I’m so glad you found beauty here, Katie. Praise God!
Ah, “to watch God make a morning” . . .
Indeed, Laurie! I know you must revel in the SUNNY days of summer where you live!