Day 18: This is My Father’s World: Declaring the Power of Creation
Jeremiah 32:17
Our God reigns supreme over any circumstances we face. Remember that Jeremiah boldly declared God’s sovereignty, even in the middle of dire circumstances, like an overwhelming Babylonian siege and his own imprisonment.
When the Babylonian army besieged Jerusalem and Jeremiah was imprisoned by the king of Judah for prophesying the city’s fall, he prayed, “In Your power, You made all of creation. There is nothing You cannot do.”
When our world feels out of control, when evil appears to prevail, we may overlook God’s presence and might. Global conflicts, tragedies, medical emergencies, and injustices can overwhelm us, clouding our understanding of God. We question, “Where is God?”
In such moments, nature becomes a profound teacher. Creation attests to the omnipotent God who established the earth’s foundations and stills the seas (Job 38), as well as the compassionate God who provides for sparrows and adorns lilies (Matt. 6).
Whatever you are facing today might feel overwhelming and cause you to doubt either God’s greatness or His goodness. But just a small reconnection with nature can realign your theological perspective—a walk in the woods, the warmth of the sun on your face, or the song of birds in a nearby tree.
Consider what hymnwriter Maltbie Babcock penned about the sovereignty of God during his frequent walks amid the beauty of upstate New York: “This is my Father’s world. O let me ne’er forget; that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.”
Reflection Prayer
Ah sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. God, help me to pause today to see all that You have made, and as I do, remind me of this truth from Scripture: “Nothing is too hard for You.” Bring to mind both Your greatness and Your goodness as I observe the majesty and beauty of creation. And whatever today may bring, may I find rest in peace in the fact that You remain the King and Ruler of all. Amen.
Week 3: The Sovereignty of God
Things don’t often go according to the ways that we want them to. Life is full of twists and turns. In times of unexpected changes, our faith in a sovereign God serves as a compass to guide us through uncertainty. We can steadfastly hold onto the Lord’s great plans as it makes a profound impact on directing our lives. He orchestrates our schedules, even with abrupt life redirections. Reflecting reveals His unseen control and thereby strengthens our faith. Trust in God’s sovereignty, despite disruptions, as He shapes your journey.
— Kevin Pies