sun and rain

^{Romans 1: 19,20-} They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.  For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

I firmly believe these verses (as I do about all scripture).  Lately God has been faithful to show me how so much about nature parallels his love for us.

Consider the weather.  Some days it is sunny, breezy, and warm while other days are dark, cloudy, and rainy.  God never promised bright sunny days throughout our lives.  In fact, he told us we would experience storms during this life.  Why are we so surprised by trials?  Not always are they meant to teach us something.  Some times they are just meant for his good purpose.  With rain comes fruitful growth.  Without rain, the grass and trees and flowers don't develop.   It never feels good to endure long periods of rain, but we can be confident it's not just random.  In fact, it is part of God's perfect plan.

That doesn't mean we have to be excited about the rain coming.  Very often the weather changes daily around here.  In the five day forecast, the weatherman tends to predicate the sunny days from the rainy days.  If we know it is going to rain tomorrow, we go outside and enjoy today.  There is a time to praise God in the good weather AND in the storms of life.  For we can trust that all things happen for his good purpose.

So if the sun is out today, get outside and enjoy nature.  If it is raining (and you feel up for it), spend some time outside enjoying the rain too.  Then thank God for all you are able to accomplish while kept in doors (and for the very fact that you have a home to shield you from the direct effects of the rain...for when we are firmly in God's hands we are protected from so much because of his grace) perhaps finding joy in cleaning your home for the Lord.

Thank you God for sunny days and rainy days.  For even in nature you never promised a life of convenience.