Have you ever been in that headspace where life was getting the best of you, so you thought (or said), “I just need some fresh air!”? We have all been there. I learned a long time ago that when my anxiety is getting the best of me, a walk in a park will do my soul (and my nervous system) a lot of good.
There is actually a ton of research pointing to the fact that being in nature has a really positive impact on our mental health. Whether you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad, or angry, a little time in nature can have a significant impact on your mood. Being outside can also help with focus. Being inside on screens all day can be overstimulating, but going outdoors for a few minutes each day can actually reset that and help keep us on track.
I cannot help but believe that God is not surprised by any of this. On Sunday, our pastors began a series looking at the intricate designs of God. There is a purpose in everything that God has put into place. A quick Google search of “interesting animals” or “amazing places in nature” will lead you down a rabbit trail of incredible things that point to the intentionality and creativity of God. Animals and insects that can survive by using their bodies as camouflage, incredible landscapes that take your breath away (have you ever seen the Rainbow Mountains in Peru?).
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.
— Romans 1:19–20
My challenge to you: Take some time in the coming days to get outside, or at least do some Googling, and take in the incredible scenery. Spend some time really paying attention to the details of creation, the incredible design of it all. It can be a sobering experience to sit back and enjoy God’s goodness, soaking in the majesty of nature, and being reminded that not only is he big enough to create the universe, but also loves us enough to pay close attention to the details of our lives. God is big enough and powerful enough to handle your biggest struggle and tender enough to collect every single tear in a jar. His love for you is beyond comprehension. You are not an accident. Every single piece of God’s creation, including you, is designed with intentionality. I hope you’re able to deeply breathe in that truth today.
Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.
— Revelation 4:11