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“God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning — the sixth day.” – Genesis 1:31, NIV
The waves that crash across the sandy shoreline, trees that tower toward the sun, painted fluffy clouds that float in the sky — all these are part of God’s creation. In Genesis, God called His creation good and gave Adam the task of working and caring for the Earth.
The Earth is different now from how it was before suffering entered the world when Adam and Eve committed the first sin. Dangers can now be found in nature. Natural disasters can destroy entire cities and ways of life. Animals can be harmful or even deadly if people are not aware of what is going on around them.
People must face hardships and take risks in the natural world. However, this does not mean God’s creation does not have purpose and value. These aspects of creation point toward the brokenness in the world that was created by sin and the need for Jesus.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.” – Psalm 23:2-3, NIV
When we look at nature, we can remember God, who created it. Nature can be awe-inspiring, even to the point of being almost incomprehensible. The richness of a sunset, the twinkle of stars and the diversity of animals all witness to a creator and designer.
The details and immensity of nature show thoughtfulness and creativity. It is difficult to imagine how such intricacies could have come to be without God.
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1, NIV
Genesis 1–2 tells the story of God’s creation of the world. On the first day, God created light in the darkness. On the second, He created the sky. Dry land and plants were created on the third day. On the fourth day, God created the sun, the moon and the stars. Water and sky animals were made on the fifth day, and on the sixth day, land animals and people were created.
Many things have happened since the world was first created, including the entrance of sin into a perfect world. However, we can still enjoy the beauty of nature today and see the many wonders of God’s creation and how they reflect His glory.
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“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” – Revelation 4:11, NIV
Seeing God’s creation can invite us into a deeper admiration for God and His handiwork. In nature, surrounded by His creation, we may feel closer to Him. The beauty of creation is a reminder of God. When we respect any part of God’s creation, be it nature or another human being, we are seeing value in what God created and admiring the creator.
Grand Canyon University is located in Phoenix, AZ, where opportunities to see aspects of God’s creation abound. If you are interested in learning more about the degree programs offered by GCU, click on the Request Info button at the top of your screen. To read more weekly devotionals or explore Theology Thursday blogs, check out the GCU blog page.
