Spiritual FormationSample

Rest and nature

The first book of the Bible tells us that God made a beautiful garden for us, and right from the beginning, He loved to walk in the garden with His people. We also know that God enjoyed the garden and His people in His rest. In the book of Romans, Paul challenges any excuse we might have for not being aware of God. He reminds us that nature speaks constantly in metaphors of God; we just need to take the time to pay attention.

The problem is our lives are being lived out in an environment that is increasingly devoid of nature. We need to become more intentional about stepping away from man-made structures and technology to explore and take time in God’s creation. Transformation happens as we discover a rest that refreshes our spirit, even in one deep breath spent in God’s creation. No demands, no pressure or rush to perform or achieve. Be reminded that God is God, and we are not.

Let’s try this practice today. It may be as simple as starting your day by going outside and taking time to notice something about God’s creation. As you pay attention, ask what is nature telling you about God? Take time to write this down and reflect on the thought later in the day.

Although we’ll be trying a different practice each day, the best way to continue in spiritual formation is to take the practices and form them into a rhythm for your week, month, and year.

Written by KATH HENRY