For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. (Romans 1:20, English Standard Version)
Introduction
Our fourth challenge recognizes the importance of seeing God’s power and divine nature in creation. The Challenge inspires us to pay attention to messages from God’s handy works that are consistent with Scripture. Often in the Bible, God’s creation is used to portray His attributes. For example, when God addressed Job out of the whirlwind he said, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding.” (Job 32:4). This was God’s starting point for helping Job gain a better understanding of who He is. Often we are too busy to see useful object lessons around us. We need to make time to smell the proverbial roses.
Challenge #4 – God’s World
Meditate on the selected verses below from the book of Psalms. For each day, a created object (or objects) and an attribute of God are highlighted for your meditation. Use the object(s) as reminders throughout the day to pause and think about God’s attributes.
- Monday – The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. (Psalm 19:1 -2, English Standard Version)
Object: The Sky. Attribute: God’s magnificence - Tuesday – For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. (Psalm 139:13 -14, English Standard Version)
Object: The human body. Attribute: God’s mastery of design (He does all things well) - Wednesday – Whatever the Lord pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps. He it is who makes the clouds rise at the end of the earth, who makes lightnings for the rain and brings forth the wind from his storehouses. (Psalm 135:6 – 7, English Standard Version)
Objects: Related to the weather (e.g., clouds and rain). Attribute: God’s sovereignty - Thursday – From your lofty abode you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. (Psalm 104:13, English Standard Version)
Object: Water. Attribute: God’s provision - Friday – When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him? (Psalm 8:3 – 4, English Standard Version)
Objects: Sun, moon and stars. Attribute: God’s omnipotence
10 Tips to Consider
- Pray for God’s guidance as you meditate on His word.
- Read the verses in context to ensure you are comfortable with their application.
- Quiet yourself and actively observe the created object(s).
- Thank God for his miraculous acts of creation.
- Thank God for his attributes.
- Ponder what the attributes of God mean to you personally.
- Incorporate your thoughts in a time of worship.
- Discuss your thoughts with someone else or a group.
- Insert the challenge for the day in your calendar.
- Document your thoughts for future reflection.