Discover the healing power of nature

In the early morning hours, the first light of dawn surfaced calling forth the beginning of a new day. From my window, I heard the morning doves coo and the sweet chirps of the bird’s praise awakening my soul. The entrancing charm of the sunrise captured my attention, as the sky was brushed with gorgeous pink and pure gold hues.

Is something on your mind that is trying to weigh you down? For a few moments, slow down the hectic pace of life; go outdoors; draw yourself into nature’s quiet calm; and find peace in the midst of any circumstances. Whenever you may fall prey to the stresses that life sometimes sends your way, head to a quiet place… a gentle retreat to be restored, renewed and rejuvenated. At times, we all need to have regular occasions of restoration and renewal… time alone to reevaluate our priorities, to listen to our small voice within, and to read God’s word and gain strength from its wisdom.

Take a walk in the country, by the shoreline or at the park and inhale the beauty that surrounds you. Read some passages in the Bible, or simply sit and feel the warm sunshine and the gentle wind on your face, letting your mind dwell on the loveliness and splendor around you. Eavesdrop on the melodies of the earth; the sound of the breeze rustling the leaves in the trees; the animals chatter or the rippling water of a stream. And discover, like me, the wondrously soothing, peace-inducing and healing balm of nature and receive the answers that you seek.

• Look up to the endless blue sky. In all its wonder, the sky has no limit. It is the same thing with your goals, for all God-inspired, good aspirations are achievable. So, follow your heart, forge ahead and pursue your heart’s desires, for persistent efforts often reap amazing rewards. “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” Luke 18:27.

• Sitting under a towering emerald-green oak tree, be reminded that the tree began as a tiny acorn and grew patiently and majestically. Understand that it’s never too late to get started, as God has placed within you potential and abilities that have not yet been released. And with patience and wisdom, you can flourish and become a mighty influence in the world. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16.

• Notice the graceful butterfly soaring in silent mystery, fluttering from bud to blossom. The caterpillar that has been transformed into a lovely butterfly, tells us that God can turn around any situation. No matter where you are, keep seeking and keep striving for you will prevail over your struggles. Your life can be renewed and will turn out to be even more beautiful than before. “Thanks be to God who always causes us to triumph.” 2 Corinthians 2:14.

• Brightening your garden, perennial flowers extend out into view rising again from the ground after the cold, harsh winter. Recognize that many of the blessings you desire are well within your grasp, for God can give you another chance. Therefore, dream a new dream. Today can be a fresh beginning for you. “Forget about what has happened before. Do not think about the past. Instead, look at the new things I’m going to do.” Isaiah 43:18.

• In our pond, we placed 12 tiny, petite goldfish. Yet, after a number of weeks, the diminutive goldfish grew quite large. For goldfish grow to their surrounding area. Realize that where you are right now, is not where you are going to stay. And in the days and weeks to come, new opportunities will be presented to you. So put yourself in an environment for success, a place where you will grow and become all that God desires you to be. “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1.

God has hundreds of ways to bless you, to help you and to heal you. You have higher heights to climb, broader rivers to cross, and scores of dreams to make manifest. Thus, gain strength, let your cares and worries pass by, as you seek inspiration, comfort and peace in the wondrous symphony of God’s creation.

In a few months, my daughter will be in a singing in a sign-language concert. The song that she will be performing is about appreciating the beauty of our surroundings called, “It’s a Wonderful World.” That sparkle in my daughter’s eyes remained bright, as she practiced time and again singing the lyrics: “I see trees of green, red roses too, I see them bloom for me and for you, and I think to myself, what a wonderful world…”

When I heard my daughter’s sweet voice, I whispered, “God is surely smiling down on us.” Then, I vowed to take time each day to notice and be thankful for the small treasures that may go unnoticed if we travel too quickly on our journey of life.

So observe the restorative beauty of nature, and have faith that you are in God’s mighty Hand; that He will use your gifts according to His great purpose. When we put our trust in God, we will see how He works all things together for good and uses our lives to be a blessing to others.

Oh, what a wonderful world!