“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.
Job 12:7-10
Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.”
I love, love, love being outside in God’s creation. There is something about being outside that is so refreshing and renewing! I noticed my freshman year of college that most of my outdoor time was spent walking to and from class or the parking lot to my dorms because, of course, it was super far away. I figured that I needed to find a way to get outside more so I got a hammock! I still do it now and it is a great way to get outside and adventure a little bit on campus when the weather is warm. In the winter though, it is much harder to get ourselves to venture out especially since it is often colder and sometimes snowy and icy. We shouldn’t let the cold get to us because getting outside, yes—even in the winter, can have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. Getting outside in God’s creation during the winter can help you burn more calories, reduce inflammation, prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD), improve indoor allergies, and help your immune system fight infections easier. Lately, I have been trying to get outside to walk or run as much as I can and it always makes me feel better to be able to breathe the fresh air. I love reflecting on the vastness and incredible diversity of Lord’s creation. When you are intentional about finding God around you, the easier it is to find him and looking at his creation is a great way to find Him.
Challenge:
GET OUTSIDE THIS WEEK. I know for many of you it is a little chilly where you are at, but bundle up and take a scenic route to your class. Take your exercising routine outside for a little bit. Sit outside for five minutes taking deep breathes. Get outside, look for God in his creation, and take in the benefits of this chilly air.
Song: