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Earth Day God's Way

"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 men are without excuse."  Romans 1:20

I don't consider myself a tree hugger.  However, our family recycles, we don't litter, and we are trying to do our part to leave our planet in better shape than when we found it.  As everyone is reminded of the beauty of the earth on this Earth Day and the need to take proper care of it, I encourage you as a Christian to remember the divine implications of Earth Day.

As a believer, we should have an even greater understanding of the importance of caring for our planet, not merely out of the conviction of being a good citizen, but because the earth stands for more than just oxygen to breathe and clean oceans.  The earth declares the majesty and glory of God!

Paul was no doubt a devout Jew who knew the beautiful verse in Psalms which states:

"The heavens declare the glory of God;  the skies proclaim the work of his hands."  Psalm 19:1

There was no doubt in his mind that although the heavens are silent, they very loudly speak God's name.  He knew that the clouds being suspended in midair was a direct revelation of God Himself.

Paul told the Romans that they (nor you and I) can deny the existence of God if they have had the privilege of observing the aspects of nature and creation.  Those things scream:

"THERE IS A GOD!  THIS JUST DIDN'T HAPPEN HAPHAZARDLY!"

But, the Romans were tempted by the same things you and I are tempted by.  We're tempted to place more emphasis on that which has been created, rather than the One who created it.  Here are some things that tempt me to place greater emphasis on the creation and not the Creator if I allow it.
  • I enjoy relaxing on a white sand beach and putting my toes in crystal clear waters.
  • I enjoy watching a baby's innocent face as I hold them in my arms.
  • I have always loved admiring the beauty and complexity of the clouds and how they determine weather patterns.
  • I love the smell of flowers and fresh cut grass and the sounds of birds chirping.

If I'm not careful, I can allow myself to forget the one common factor in all of those occurrences. 

GOD!

If observing those things don't spring forth a spirit of worship and awe for our Creator, then I have become like a pagan who has worshipped the creation over the Creator.  Paul tells the Romans just that in Romans 1:25:

"They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the created things, rather than the Creator -- who is forever praised."

As the secular world celebrates Earth Day in their own way today, you make the decision to celebrate it the way God intended.  Let the beauties of this earth spur an attitude of worship in your heart.  Don't let a single aspect of nature pass you by today without taking a moment to praise the One who Created it.  Wouldn't the world truly be a beautiful place if we all celebrated Earth Day in this fashion?

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