Paying Attention to the Creator’s Creation

September 14, 2021

Psalm 19:1

Paying Attention to the Creator’s Creation

By guest writer, Julia Phillips

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.” - Psalm 19:1-6

God has created a world that speaks of his glory. The voice of the heavens and the skies is pouring forth speech and displaying knowledge “day to day” and “night to night.” This is a poetic way to say constantly. We see in the next verses that this voice is also present everywhere. If God created this proclamation to be everywhere and at all times, then it is good for us to stop and listen. When did you last pause from the daily demands of life, observe the sky (or some part of creation), and listen?

One morning I was sitting outside when I noticed the entire wooded hill was illuminated and glimmering with thousands of dew drops hanging on spider webs. The webs had been there all morning, but they were only visible to me when the light shone upon them at a certain angle. This physical revelation of natural beauty comforted me and reminded me that God’s presence is always with me, whether or not I see him, feel him, or even acknowledge him.

The psalmist encourages us to consider the sun. Because the sun is a constant part of our daily rhythm, its existence runs the risk of becoming common. Yet its precise placement in the sky declares the glory of God. If Earth’s orbit came any closer to the Sun, we would burn; a little bit further, we would freeze. The existence of color, plants, animals, and people are all dependent upon the sun and its light. The sun’s course is set by God and is part of his created order.

It is a mercy that at any moment we can look up or look out the window, consider light, and know how glorious God is. This knowledge puts our momentary situations in perspective. God’s glory exists independently of our circumstances, challenges, failures, and successes. When we take the time to wonder at creation, our minds and hearts are lifted toward the Creator. We recognize his presence, and he fills the present moment.

Reflection:
Where have you seen God’s glory in creation? What specific elements of nature elicit wonder in your spirit? Take time to meditate on God as Creator. We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Related Resource:

In our six-week small group Bible study on the book of 1 John, you are invited to live and celebrate true life in Christ. Throughout his first letter, John wrestles with the assurance of salvation. How do we know that we are genuine Christians, and how can we recognize authentic faith in others? The Apostle John taught that you can enjoy full assurance through believing in the incarnate Son of God, walking in the light of obedience, and loving God and his children. Embark on this study with us today!