Nature is the Art of God: A Vast Picture with Many Different Frames

As we cruised the Caño Cristales River in Colombia, also known as "the river of five colors" or "liquid rainbow," and as we walked through the Sunflower Valley in Indiana, I marveled that nature is indeed both God's art and a powerful form of healing. Nature can provide enjoyment for us if we take the time to appreciate it. God has made numerous natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes for us to enjoy. They are all around us and they are free of charge. All creation is the work of His skillful hands. Psalm 19:1-2 (NIV), “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.”

Nature is God’s masterpiece, painted by His divine hands. From the delicate petals of a flower to the rugged peaks of majestic mountains, every detail is a stroke of artistic brilliance. When we take the time to appreciate nature, we connect with something greater than ourselves. The beauty of a sunrise or the serenity of a forest can evoke awe and wonder. It can completely change our mood and focus.

Let's explore some of nature’s beauty and benefits:

 

Sunshine

The rising sun brings the renewal of hope for a brand-new day. Ethereal sunrises and glorious sunsets are natural arts for us to enjoy. When working in my garden and enjoying the sunshine, I experience a kind of peace and joy that is difficult to describe. I feel close to God and at one with Him. It doesn’t matter if I am sowing flowers or vegetable seeds, pulling weeds, or picking fruits from my trees. Somehow it is different from what I experience in other settings.  Ecclesiastes 11:7-10 (NIV), “Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun. However, many years anyone may live, let them enjoy them all...”. Sunlight is more than just warmth; it's a lifeline. Our bodies synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, which supports bone health and boosts our immune system which is essential to our health.

A sunny day lifts our spirits, brightens our mood, and energizes us. It's like a warm hug from God. Isaiah 45:5-6 (NIV), “I am the Lord, and there is no other, besides me, there is no God; I equip you, though you do not know me, ⁶ that people may know, from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none besides me; I am the Lord, and there is no other.”

 

Air and Wind

The air we breathe is essential to life similarly, the Holy Spirit gives us life. John 3:8 (NIV), Jesus answered… “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." It can be like a comforting whisper from a friend or a harsh warning of impending danger. Sitting on a porch, under a tree, or in the open air, the pleasure of a gentle wind is heavenly to feel, especially on a warm day. Fresh air invigorates our lungs and clears our minds. Breathing deeply in open spaces fills us with vitality. The wind whispers secrets from distant lands, carrying scents of pine forests or salty ocean breezes. It dances through our hair, reminding us that life is in constant motion.

 

Clouds

Some of us who spend time outdoors and observe the clouds sometimes get messages through them, as we see various images through their shapes and colors. The Scriptures frequently use the imagery of clouds to signal the immediate presence of God in time and space. God led the Israelites in a Pillar of Clouds during the days of their exodus from Egypt.  Clouds are celestial artists, painting the sky with their ever-changing forms. Psalm 147:8 (NIV),   “He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills.” They inspire daydreams and contemplation. Gazing at clouds can be therapeutic - a moment to pause and let our thoughts drift like cumulus wisps.  

 

Rain and Snow

Have you ever heard rain falling on a roof made of Zinc? Those who have will tell you that it is a comforting sound. There is a children’s song with a line that goes, “I love the pit, pit, patter of the raindrops,” about that sound.  Many ASMRs use the sound of rain falling to lull people to sleep. It is very comforting. 

Rain cleanses the earth, replenishes rivers, and nourishes plants. It's like nature's shower for the soul. Job 37:6-8 (NIV), "6 He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth,' and to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour. ' 7 So that everyone he has made may know his work, he stops all people from their labor. 8 The animals take cover; they remain in their dens.”

I have never had the opportunity to experience snow. Still, those who have enjoyed making snow angels, having snowball fights, making snowmen, and catching snowflakes have told me what a wonderful experience it was for them.  Some say that catching snowflakes on your tongue feels like tasting magic. Many people are disappointed when there is no snow at Christmas for them to have a White Christmas. Snow blankets the world in quietude. 

 

Rivers, Seas, Natural Lakes, Waterfalls

There are many bodies of water which are a beauty to behold. Rivers, seas, natural lakes, and waterfalls. Whether it’s a river, a serene ocean, or a lake, water soothes us - whether it's the gentle babble of a brook or the crashing waves of an ocean. Swimming in natural water invigorates our senses. Whenever I am extremely tired or stressed just sitting by a river or the sea refreshes me. Even if I don’t enter the water, just sitting and looking out at it and hearing the crash of the waves creates a calming and soothing atmosphere, which helps me to feel more relaxed. Psalm 42:7 (NASB), “Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls; All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me.”

Waterfalls cascade like liquid poetry, washing away stress. Whether well-known or not they all contribute to the wonderful, living art of nature provided by God. They have been captured in many photographs, paintings, and videos. There are many picturesque and popular ones all over the world including Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe, Africa), Angel Falls (Venezuela, South America), Iguazu Falls (Argentina and Brazil, South America), Niagara Falls (Canada and USA, North America), Yosemite Falls (USA, North America), Olo’upena Falls (Hawaii, USA), Kaieteur Falls, (Guyana, South America), and Dunns River Falls (Jamaica, Caribbean).

When I sit and look at the vast expanse of a river or sea or a cascading waterfall it makes it even clearer to me that there must be a God. They are like spiritual sanctuaries. Psalms 137:1-4 (NIV), “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.”

 

Mountains, Hills, and Forests

When I go for an early morning walk when it is quiet, and the world is just beginning to awaken, and I look up at the hills, Psalm 121: 1-2 (KJV), “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”, always comes to my mind. It brings a feeling of peace, strength, inspiration, and reassurance.

Climbing hills or hiking mountains challenges us physically but rewards us with breathtaking vistas. Standing atop a peak, we feel both small and significant - a part of something ancient and magnificent. They provide awe-inspiring views and act as therapeutic sanctuaries. Even if it’s just wooded areas and not hills, the tranquil and soulful landscapes provide spiritual solace. All of these seem to shout to us that there is a Supreme Being.

Plains and Valleys

Plains stretch out like endless canvases. They remind us that simplicity has its own beauty. When I was a child, both at home and at school, I was taught to pray Psalm 23. I often reflect on verses 2-3 (KJV), “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul…” These words have been very comforting over the years, as is the mental picture they create – wide expanses of green grass.

Picturesque valleys cradle life - lush greenery nestled between rugged slopes. Enjoying the peacefulness of blissful meadows can help us to reenergize and reset. They symbolize resilience and growth. There is beauty all around. The celestial skies, the sea with its pristine beaches, and majestic mountains provide the backdrop for these natural living “paintings”.

 

Flowers

Flowers are God's delicate masterpieces, each petal a stroke of color on the canvas of life. The writer depicted the beauty of Jesus in the Song of Solomon 2:1 (NIV), “I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. …” People have long admired flowers for their beauty, fragrance, and symbolism. They appeal to all of our senses. Whether it's a vibrant tulip, a romantic rose, or a cheerful sunflower, flowers evoke emotions and memories. Poinciana flowers bring memories of the tropics. Poinsettias at Christmas time evoke a feeling of warmth and cheerfulness. A beautiful orchid in full bloom can bring great joy. The fragrance of the night-blooming jasmine or plumerias of different varieties is both beautiful and fragrant.

Matthew 6:28 – 30 (ESV), “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” These verses from the Sermon on the Mount highlight the beauty and simplicity of flowers, emphasizing their innate elegance and the care that God provides for even the smallest details of creation.

The many varieties of flowers embody the boundless creativity of God, offering an endless palette of inspiration for artists and poets. They bloom in lush meadows, adorn towering mountainsides, and grace tranquil gardens, infusing every landscape with their radiant charm. Flowers carpeting a field or garden in a riot of colors evoke a sense of wonder and awe that transcends cultural boundaries and touches the depths of the human spirit.

  

Trees

Trees add beauty to any landscape and many artists have captured their beauty in different seasons from the lush green of spring and summer to the golden brown of autumn, and their branches white with snow in winter. Blossoms, flowers, and fruits contrast with the lush green leaves of trees to add to the beauty they present. We can also enjoy watching the birds perched on their branches and enjoy their chirping music. God made the Garden of Eden so that man could enjoy it. Genesis 2:9 (NIV), “The LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground - trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. …” There are many ways in which we have used and enjoyed trees, but their natural beauty cannot be overlooked.

Ezekiel 31:8-9 (NIV), "The cedars in the garden of God could not rival it, nor could the junipers equal its boughs, nor could the plane trees compare with its branches - no tree in the garden of God could match its beauty. I made it beautiful with abundant branches, the envy of all the trees of Eden in the garden of God."  Although this passage is metaphorical, it vividly describes a magnificent tree in the Garden of Eden, highlighting its unparalleled beauty and grandeur as a reflection of God's creative artistry.

  

Butterflies, Bees, and Fireflies

When I look at butterflies flitting around flowers, or the bees feeding on the nectar of blossoms or flowers I can’t help seeing that God carefully planned the entire universe. These tiny creatures flutter and buzz around us, weaving magic into our lives. Romans 1:20-21 (NIV), “For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities - His eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

Butterflies dance on the breeze, their delicate wings painted with iridescent hues. Fireflies are God's fairy lights, twinkling on warm summer nights. They create a magical scene against the darkness of night. Insects inspire artists and poets alike, their intricate patterns and vibrant colors fuel creativity.

 

Birds

Birds are among the most visually stunning creatures on Earth, displaying a wide array of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and striking plumage. These include the Scarlet Macaw, Peacock, Parrots, Resplendent Quetzal, Atlantic Puffin, and Rainbow Lorikeet. Each with its mesmerizing display of colors and patterns. The patterns that flocks of birds fly in are beautiful to see. The way they naturally change leadership roles also boggles the mind.

Birdsong at dawn - the original alarm clock! Birds flit through forests and soar across skies, their melodies inspiring musicians and artists throughout history. Psalm 104:12 (NIV), "The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches." This verse paints a vivid picture of birds in their natural habitat, highlighting their joyful songs and harmonious presence in the world. It suggests that the beauty of birds extends beyond their physical appearance to include their sounds and behavior. The beauty and elegance of birds serve as a testament to God's abundant grace and generosity. 

 

 

Let us Give Thanks

Through nature, God speaks to us, teaches us, and provides for us. We can experience enjoyment, peace, and wonder as we marvel at His wondrous works. We can see, hear, smell, taste, and feel the beauty of His provisions in nature as they appeal to our different senses. Not only do we experience the beauty and serenity of nature, but it also sustains life. Without sunlight, everything would eventually die. Without the waters of the earth, the clouds, the trees, and the animals, the cycle of life would be broken. God put everything in place for us to live and to enjoy life. Finally, Jesus gave his life so that we may have life and have it more abundantly.  He died on the cross for us.  As we enjoy the beauty and provisions in nature, let us reflect on the one who gave it all and live through Him so that we can enjoy eternity with Him. Psalm 136:1 (NIV), “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.”

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the wondrous works of your hands. Thank you for every little detail you added to make them perfect for us to enjoy. Thank you, Lord, for giving us the ability to sense their beauty in one way or another, and help us to recognize and acknowledge that they were made by you.