Our family enjoyed 4 days of camping up at Oconee State Park this past week. It was bliss! Cool weather, beautiful hikes, roaring campfires, and good people (part of our Home Group from church came too!) I have also spent a lot of time out working in the yard, watching our chickens, and generalized puttering!
I am always amazed at the powerful, therapeutic properties in nature. God's creation soothes the racing mind, calms the anxious heart, and restores worship and awe and gratitude. His goodness and grace and sustainability can be found at every turn...when you don't feel like you can "see" or "hear" God, all you have to do is walk outside!
It's easy to turn to things like "retail therapy" or entertainment or books for relaxation, but none of those compare to the restorative healing that we can find out in nature. People with mental and emotional disorders find great healing when regular time is spent outside. Children with ADD are calmed and centered. The believers in Jesus find renewed faith when in touch with His grandeur and beauty and power.
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge."
Psalm 19:1-2
Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge."
Psalm 19:1-2
4 comments:
oh, your trip sounds like it was a wonderful blessing, aimee! i wholeheartedly agree...being in nature centers us in Him...He's so palpably present outdoors. just today over on my blog, i linked to an excellent post by sally clarkson that speaks eloquently about this very thing!!
enjoy your puttering! :) megan
So true! I spent a good part of my day sitting in the park, sketching and watercoloring nature. It soothed my soul so much better than the best latte (or any kind of shopping trip) could have. :)
Sounds like your camping trip was a lovely retreat for you all!
SO TRUE! Had to chuckle about Sarah's comment though - I think a little outdoors AND a latte would be pretty soothing! :)
By the way, you’ve been given an award. If you’re interested, you can pick it up at my blog. If not, please know that I’ve really been enjoying your blog, thank you so much!
Looks like a very fun family outing! :)
Yes! I love nature- it is daily evidence of God. I love His beautiful creation! He's everywhere and in everything :)
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