Psalm 19
I have a fond connection with the “’ber” months. It seems we have finally entered the “brr” months as well. It is in these months and days that I feel most encouraged and focused on God’s work.
You know, the months of September, October, November and December are the “-ber” months. The slow march into winter encourages me, I love to wear a good midweight layer, get into the woods without mosquitoes, and do hard work without breaking too much of a sweat. September seemed to start well with cooler days and nights, but we were right back to the heat and dust as harvest continued.
The varied colors of fall draw my eyes while the sweet scent and crunch of leaves under foot assault my senses in an overwhelming chorus of worship. These “’ber” months remind me of how much God loves me, how creative He is, and that He is worthy of worship. Have you slowed down to worship God and enjoy His creativity?
Psalm 19 points us to the truth that God created nature to draw us to seek Him out. Verses 1-2 declare, “1 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. 2 Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge.” It is no wonder people will argue that they feel closest to God in the deer stand or the combine. Our hearts cry out for connection to God, and we are able to see His work all the more clearly without distraction.
Nature is not enough though, and as we read the rest of Psalm 19 we realize that God has given us not only nature to reveal His character, but also His words. Verses 7-8 clarify, “7 The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.” The words of God change everything for us.
We may feel close to God in nature, but God speaks to us through His word. His words transform us and our perspective. When I am in nature, enjoying God’s creation, my heart longs for the truth from scripture. That truth when applied to my life results in maturity and deeper faith.
Praise God for the ability to slow down and enjoy creation as well as study scripture and grow in our faith. The result of our enjoyment and study is for the glory of God and maturity of our faith. As God works in our situations and life we continually turn to recognize our dependence on Him and His work as redeemer of our lives. Psalm 19:14 states, “14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.”
Take time this week to recognize the work of God in nature, spend time studying God’s word to see your life and heart transformed, and allow His redemptive plan to shape you into the image of God. As you are able this week take out your bible and be encouraged through the reading of Psalm 19, discuss it with friends and grow in your faith.