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1 Kings 8:27 – But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! (NIV)
God often amazes me. In the littlest things, like a blade of grass, I see His handiwork. In the vastness of space and the colossal starry sky, I recognize His hallmarks of creation. In the people I love, I see His image constantly before me. In the work of the church I serve, I watch for His ways. Every day is a special gift from His goodness, so no matter how I feel, what I am experiencing, or what I face, I still find sacred seconds in which He just plainly and truthfully amazes me.
My mind cannot contain the infinite wisdom and boundless glory that is God's. My heart overflows with His love, because it cannot be kept personally within me. He makes me glad to be one of His creatures, and He makes me proud to be a child of His. I know that I do not deserve such goodness and love or His compassion and mercy, but I am joyful at knowing these beautiful blessings. Sometimes, my heart is fit to burst with God's overwhelming love; in those sacred moments, I wish that the whole world could be filled with the same feelings.
Ages ago, when King Solomon had completed the building of the first temple in Jerusalem, he knew that God could not be contained with the stones and mortar of a mere building. However, Solomon understood the symbolism of God's dwelling with humanity and felt humbled by God's favour on His people. It must have been a glorious and sacred day for all of God's people.
The older I get, the more that I realize that because God is gracious, He allows His Spirit to reside on this paltry planet that we call earth. Humanity does not deserve such a blessing because of our broken and sinful ways, but the love of God persists in the midst of all the evil in the world. We are still His people. We are still His children. We are still loved and never alone.
The infinite God abiding in a finite planet — this is what constantly amazes me and always will.
Questions for personal reflection:
Where do I see God's handiwork around me today? When do I feel His love in my life?
Prayer: Lord God, You have created the entire universe with its vast array of galaxies, solar systems, stars, and planets. You have also made the tiniest of things like atoms, cells, seeds, and people. Thank You for the wonders of creation that are all around us, which constantly amaze us. We especially thank You for Your deep and abiding, loving presence which will always gladden our hearts and give meaning to our lives. In Your holy name, we cheerfully pray. Amen.
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So true John.
Beautiful John, Thank you!
What an interesting Devotional and good personal reflection questions! Do continue to write.
God bless!
So true John. A few months ago my partner was diagnosed with cancer. She had no indication of any kind of any trouble and had a clean record. She went to heaven within a month. It is hard to see but I now see God’s hand in that. Thanks for your Biblical message of truth!
Dear John:
An artist sees more of the wonders I think. I also thank Him for the mysteries.
Thank you for the reminder.
Blessings.
Thank you very much, John. Merci beaucoup. Muchas gracias. Grazie mille. Dank je wel. Danke schön. Bol’shoye spasibo. Mashkur. Dhanyavad. Zhōngguó fēicháng gǎnxiè nǐ.
Well said.
AMEN!
As a farmer I too marvel at the little simple things that are so perfectly designed. I was told when we feel a sacredness and holiness in a place or event the Scottish call it a Thin Place, where heaven and earth seem to be almost together.
Thanks you for your devotions. I love them. I would love to hear you preach but I live in Ontario, Canada.
Blessings.
Thank you John for these beautiful thoughts and words.
Your message expresses how I’ve felt for more years than I can remember. It has always puzzled me as to why anyone would ask for proof that there is a loving God when the evidence is everywhere? Thank you for your inspiring message. God bless you and yours.
Dear John,
This devotional really got my attention!
I too, am often struck by the beauty in the little things all around me. Those tiny little blue flowers, so delicate, yet they are stepped on with unseeing eyes.
The blue clouds wafting across the sky sometimes make me wonder if God’s angels are dancing or playing catch or using them as comforters when they feel like resting, not that they need any rest.
There are times when it is hard for me to “be thankful in all things.” When I lie awake for hours on end for lack of sleep I am tempted to feel sorry for myself. And then I remember all the people in this building who have to be fed and dressed. I know, compared to them, I am truly so much better off.
Your way of “passing on the good news” is one of the great joys I have in my life. Thank you!