The Calm of Creation: Why Nature Soothes Us
Every element of God’s creation—from the serenity of the outdoors to the calming presence of animals—offers a deeply peaceful and healing effect. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate human comforts, like a beautifully decorated home, and I’m not one to bask in the cold outdoors. Yet, there’s an undeniable tranquillity in hearing birds chirp, listening to the rhythm of the ocean at the beach, or simply watching fish swim.
These moments of natural calm naturally lead us to contemplate our Creator, God, who is I AM THAT I AM. Everything He has created is a simple, yet profound, fragment of His wisdom, majesty, and goodness.
Creation Declares God’s Glory
The Bible clearly teaches that the natural world serves as a testament to God’s presence and power.
- Romans 1:20 reminds us that God’s eternal power and divine nature are clearly seen and understood through what has been made.
- Colossians 1:16 further emphasizes that God created all things through Him and for Him, both visible and invisible.
Knowing that God intentionally imprints Himself into all of creation is the ultimate reason we experience such serenity, peace, and stillness when we encounter it. God is omniscient (all-knowing) and omnipresent (present everywhere at all times). He cannot be hidden from, as Adam and Eve discovered when they tried to hide from Him in the garden.
Source of Worry: Why We Get Disconnected from God
The daily hustle and bustle of life can easily detach us from God due to the overwhelming distractions and cares of this world. Unfortunately, these worldly concerns are the root cause of stress, worry, fear, and anxiety.
This is why studies consistently show that exposure to green spaces and animals can improve mental health. In an environment with minimal greenery, like a bustling city, we can feel disconnected from the very elements through which God reveals Himself. Parks and animals are vital because they are constant, accessible reminders of God’s goodness, wisdom, and glory.
However, we must be careful not to idolize the creation itself as the source of our peace. These things are merely the mirror; the peace comes from the one reflected in it—God Himself, the ultimate source and the Prince of Peace.
The Key to Wellness: Realigning with God for Lasting Peace
Stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are often byproducts of being misaligned with our Creator. Healing and avoidance of these burdens come from realigning our lives with Him.
It is only when we hit the reset button, grounding ourselves in God’s love and presence, that we can find true peace and tranquility.
- For the believer, this means pursuing an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, immersing themselves in His Word (the Bible), and fellowshipping with other believers.
- For the unbeliever, the natural longing to feel connected to the peacefulness of the environment is, without their conscious knowledge, a subconscious yearning for the divine presence God imprinted in creation, as He declared everything He made to be “good” (Genesis).
The common thread is that we all long to feel connected to our Creator.
If you are struggling with stress or any mental health challenge, the solution is to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all other things will be added to you. The Bible promises that God will keep those in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him (Isaiah 26:3).
The Peace of God That Guards Your Heart
God’s final instruction on worry is incredibly clear: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
God’s creation certainly brings a sense of serenity; His animals are majestic and bring joy to many. But they must only serve as a reminder of God’s goodness. When we marvel at creation, we must remember to glorify and praise the Lord, for He alone is worthy.
All stress, worry, and fear should cease, not just because we dwell in His presence, but because He comforts us with His promise to care for us.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Do not worry about what tomorrow will bring—what you will eat or drink—for tomorrow will care for itself. Keep your mind on the eternal source of peace today.
Ready to Exchange Worry for God’s Peace?
The power to overcome stress and anxiety is not found in controlling your circumstances, but in surrendering them to the One who controls all things. God desires that you live in the “perfect peace” that comes from keeping your mind focused on Him.
Your next step is simple but profound: Choose prayer over worry.
Close your eyes right now and pray Philippians 4:6-7 over your life. If this blog post spoke to your heart and you are ready to begin or deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ, I encourage you to reach out to a trusted Christian friend or find a local faith community today. The beginning of true peace is a prayer away.