Ponder This: What sign of goodness(big or small) have you seen from the Lord over the last few days?
Scripture To Consider: Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me. -Psalm 86:17
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Tom's Response:
Karen and I had the opportunity to visit Union University with our son, Billy, this week. Union is a small Christian school in Jackson, TN. The school's mission is excellence-driven, Christ-centered, people-focused, and future-directed. When I chose a college, I chose a school that was football-driven, party-focused, and close to home. I couldn't be prouder of Billy choosing a school where everyone on campus is a Jesus follower, and everything they do is centered around Jesus.
Prior to visiting the school, we spent a few days on Lake Martin in Alabama. We hired a guide to fish in this clear-water, gigantic lake. Our guide, Randy, asked Billy about visiting the school and why he chose it. Billy replied, "Because I'm a Christian and I want to be around other kids like me." I smiled, and then our guide shared that he, too, was a follower of Jesus. Next thing you know, we are all talking about our faith. Then, I caught a 15lb striped bass on 8lb test right before the sun went down, and Billy was so excited for me. Proverbs 15:20 came to mind, "A wise son brings joy to his father."
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Karen's Response:
This past week, while on a long road trip, I looked out the window to see the most spectacular tree. It was just on the side of the road, sitting among many other trees—some evergreen and some still bare—but this tree was covered with beautiful white flowers in full bloom. It was stunning.
Nature has always been a place to see God’s goodness. Through his amazing creation, we can learn so much about our Creator. In scripture, God even invites us to pause and take notice. In Matthew 6:26-34, Jesus tells us not to be anxious about tomorrow, using creation to teach the lesson. And Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature(and I think his goodness)—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
When we pause to carefully look at nature, we are reminded that God is always at work. He is working behind the scenes to ensure everything comes together for good. Seeing a tree in full bloom, hearing the birds sing melodies into the world, or watching the sun rise over the hills can bring hope. God has surrounded us with his goodness; let’s intentionally look at his creation and ask him for eyes to see it, ears to hear it, and wisdom to learn from it.
