Does the condition of the world these days make you want to hide away from everything? It does me. I feel compelled to lock away indoors as if I can block out all the what if's. However, when I shelter in my house for too long, I begin to feel smothered, and the anxiety doesn't go away; it actually increases. My urge for self-protection only exacerbates the fear and tension that threatens me. Fear screams lies into my ears, and I have to learn to push through. I know only God can bring the peace that I long for, but I have to get to where I can see Him with clarity. For me, that is almost always outside in His creation. I can see beyond the temporal condition of the world when I go outside. I can almost get a glimpse of eternity.
2 Corinthians 4:18 says So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Not too long ago, I was in the desert, physically and emotionally. My soul felt dry and parched. I had a difficult task in front of me and just kept working, thinking if I just kept working, I could ignore the pain in my heart. At the end of a long, hard day, I just wanted to shower and fall into bed, but I felt God beckoning me to go outside. In my exhaustion, I almost ignored Him. But I decided to go out, even if it was just for a few minutes. My mind started to settle as I let the cool desert breeze wash over me. As I laid my head back against the chair and looked up, I was overwhelmed with the vastness above me. The dark sky sparkled with countless twinkling stars. It was magical. Peace descended on me as God whispered eternity into my heart. He was reminding me that the junk I'm bombarded with in the temporal world is just that - Temporary.
The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
Psalm 19:1
There are many lessons to be learned in nature, whether it is the vastness of the desert sky or cultivating vegetables in the garden. If you are like me, you may need a reminder. This week, I encourage you to put your phone down, turn off the TV (especially the news) and go outside. If you live in the south, go out at dusk, and count fireflies. If you are in the desert, go out at night and count the stars. Let the temporary troubles of this world fade as creation gives you a glimpse of eternity.
My garden has been a great source of healing and lessons throughout the years. So, please join me during the month of August as I share just a few of the treasures I've discovered in the garden.