A Moments Peace

I am an outdoor girl through and through. I love exploring the natural world, especially more so, since I took up photography. Being able to capture stunning landscapes and the vastness of wildlife, is truly a wonderful pastime. I am so blessed that where I am currently living, is only a stones throw away from the countryside and numerous nature reserves. I truly have a little patch of paradise right on my doorstep.

As I’ve mentioned before, being outdoors provides me with a sense of comfort and peace. In the day to day chaos, its difficult to switch off, but getting lost in wild spaces, listening to the birdsong, really allows me to ‘be still’. I’m able to clear my mind and focus on my surroundings, rather than the worries or problems I’m facing. This has meant even more to me now, throughout these last few months of lockdown. It has given me an escape from the uncertainty, fear and stress that’s affected us all. Most importantly though, it’s during these moments of calm, I feel most connected to God.

“Be still and know that I am God”

Psalm 46: 10

“I lift up my eyes to the hills– where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Psalm 121: 1-2

To fully be still before God, sometimes we need to just stop, open our eyes, and acknowledge who God is and what He can do. In doing so, you’ll remember that God is almighty, an ever-present refuge, and an all-loving Father. When we know who God is for ourselves, we’ll be able to experience His comfort amongst the chaos and His peace in the midst of our struggles.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 14:27

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Phillipians 4:7

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”

Isaiah 26:3

Nature not only gives me a sense of contentment, it equally amazes me! There is such an incredible array of creation to enjoy: beautiful landscapes, colourful sunsets, glistening stars, rolling oceans, and thousands upon thousands of different animal, bird and plant species. Seeing all of this wonderful creation, displaying God’s glory, fills me with such awe!

“”You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds,God our Savior, the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas, who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations. The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.”

Psalm 65: 5-8

We first begin to marvel at God as Creator, in Genesis 1, where He intricately weaves something out of nothing.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

Genesis 1:1

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”

Psalm 19: 1

We need time to look and marvel at the wonders God has created. It’s good for us. God wants this for us. If you haven’t already I would encourage you to take the time, to get lost in nature and enjoy God’s creation. Regain your sense of awe and wonder, because I believe we all desperately need to be reminded of the greatness of our God, especially now when our world is suffering.

God exists.

The proof is in His creation.

Romans 1:20

We need to take comfort in the knowledge of who God is, and understand that He is in control of all things. I pray that God will speak to you and reassure you of these truths. I pray you’ll learn to be still in His presence, and that you’ll also experience His peace today.

God Bless!