By: Brian G. Chilton | January 22, 2019
On the evening of Sunday, January 20, 2019, I and countless individuals across the nation peered into the night sky to observe the Super Wolf Blood Moon. It was a rare treat to observe a total lunar eclipse as the Earth’s shadow was cast upon the moon. I love astronomy and scientific inquiry of the universe. A person finds certain benefits when taking the time to admire the Creator’s environmental creation. No, I am not speaking of finding some prophetic interpretation behind the natural phenomena as some have tried to do. Lunar eclipses do not necessarily indicate some apocalyptic sign. Rather, one finds certain spiritual benefits behind the practice.
- Benefit of Appreciation. First, a person finds the benefit of appreciation. The psalmist was moved to declare that “the fool says in his heart, ‘There’s no God’” (Ps. 14:1, CSB). Perhaps the psalmist’s motivation behind penning these words—in addition to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit—was his appreciation of God’s work in creation. The moon has a purpose. The moon equalizes the ocean’s tides as well as regulates the spin of the earth. When a person understands the benefits that certain aspects of creation holds, the person holds a greater appreciation for the masterful work that God has done.
- Benefit of Awe. Another benefit is awe. Often, we as human beings tend to think of ourselves more highly than we should. Some tend the think that they are the only ones that matter and that the world revolves around themselves, as the cliché goes. However, when a person understands the grandeur of God’s creation and how small he or she is in comparison, a person is not as tempted to think of oneself in such a manner. The person realizes just how small one really is in comparison to the universe, much less in comparison to God.
- Benefit of Adoration. A third benefit is that of adoration. An appreciation of nature leads one to praise God for his beautiful handiwork. The psalmist praised God, proclaiming, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the expanse proclaims the work of his hands” (Ps. 19:1). When a person understands the intricate beauty of creation, one is left with nothing but praise for the One who established it all.
- Benefit of Assurance. Finally, an admiration of creation brings about a certain assurance. Pertaining to Christ, Paul notes that “all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and by him all things hold together” (Col. 1:16). If God is able to create everything in the universe, then he can certainly handle any issue you might be facing. In addition, God’s creation of all things makes it possible for God to do nearly anything. Everything becomes possible with a God who is limitless in power.
So, take some time to spend in God’s creation. By admiring the beauty of God’s creation, you may find that you will be led to glorify the One who established it in place.
Brian G. Chilton is the founder of BellatorChristi.com and is the host of The Bellator Christi Podcast. He received his Master of Divinity in Theology from Liberty University (with high distinction); his Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies and Philosophy from Gardner-Webb University (with honors); and received certification in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Brian is currently enrolled in the Ph.D. program in Theology and Apologetics at Liberty University and is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Evangelical Philosophical Society. Brian has been in the ministry for over 15 years and serves as the Senior Pastor of Westfield Baptist Church in northwestern North Carolina.
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