Beauty of God's Creation - Right at Our Fingertips

I've always been a summer girl. I love spending time outdoors swimming, biking, playing sand volleyball, grilling, going to the lake, etc. I'd have to say it's usually my most favorite time of year. It's the time of year where your days seem longer, company kept with friends happens more often, tan lines begin to appear, and relaxation settles in.

This year, however, I've been really impressed with the Spring Time. Now, don't get me wrong, I still enjoy my summers and am looking forward to that first swim, but I've seen beauty in a way that I haven't noticed before. That beauty comes in the form of flowers...

It seems each time I go outside, I notice a new flower blooming, whether it's in my tree on the back patio or a tropical plant out my bedroom window. Regardless of where they are, they keep blooming and they are absolutely stunning...

I can't even imagine what God must have been thinking when He created each flower a different color, shape, or size. If you look closely, each flower is completely different yet all so very beautiful. It's interesting how these flowers will only grow if they get the proper amount of rain and sunshine. Without it, they couldn't exist.

Just think how much time God spent caring for each wild flower in the country. He loves us and cares for us even more - giving us each exactly what we need. And just as a gardener has to prune her garden, God prunes us in order that we may bloom bigger the next season. And sometimes God has to allow His people to go through a rough patch but if we choose the right way, we can end up on the other side of that struggle - smelling like a beautiful rose.

So I encourage you, today, to not only take the time to look at the beauty of God's creation but understand that God is taking care of you, helping you grow stronger, and trying to give you deeper roots. So bloom wherever He plants you and don't miss a single thing He has in store for you! Some day, you'll grow strong yet flexible enough to bend down and encourage others along the way.

*Some thoughts and ideas by Peggy Barnell