In the midst of late summer, I see the fruits of my labor in my garden. Ripe, red tomatoes, green peppers, and cucumbers all appear on lush green plants. Flowers blossom bright hues of reds, orange, pink and purple. The grass is a blanket of soft green carpet that feels soft under my feet. I can say that all of this is a result of my work, but I know that none of it would be possible without God’s hand.
We are the benefactors of God’s creation. He could have chosen to place us in a stark and sterile world void of color and a variety of plants and animals. Yet he created a world full of color, beauty, and awesome splendor — a world that soothes our troubled souls with the sound of waves lapping the shore, the fresh smell of rain and the vast display of a mountain range. God offers us so much more through life with him, but like Adam and Eve we often opt to pursue selfish desires.
Psalm 147: 8-11 reminds us of who sustains us and this world we live in: “He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.”
If we only look at the world around us through the eyes of our accomplishments and selfish desires, we will miss seeing the true author of life. God’s love for us is evident in the world he has placed us in. His hope and peace can be found in the life and purpose he has given to us.
#ThrowbackThursday – This post originally published June 30, 2015.
© 2015 CGThelen
140 Character Christian 
I love to look at how our lives and a garden have such similar qualities. I often think of the seed and all it must go through to produce fruit and remember that during the trying and dark times in my own life.
Waiting on God to provide the warmth, the sun and the rain can be difficult, but we mature in His time to produce fruit for his kingdom. Blessings.
So true! God’s creation is amazing and vivid in its colors and shapes. I enjoy taking my camera along when I am traveling or walking. Sometimes, God allows my lens to capture something unforgettable.
I also like to take a camera sometimes on walks. It helps me slow down and focus on God’s creation.