He waters the mountains from his upper chambers; the earth is satisfied by the fruit of his work. (Ps. 104:13)
SUSTAINABLE. ORGANIC. RECYCLE. These terms are en vogue today as we grapple with human-caused environmental problems. When we hear them, we may think of new technology or conservation programs or bright labels at the grocery store. But you know what? Humans didn’t invent sustainability. God did. From the very beginning, God created a world with sustainability built right in.
The weather system rains needed water upon the land, providing refreshment for plants and animals. Wetlands and marshes naturally filter and clean that water, and eventually it evaporates skyward to be used all over again. Sunlight generates photosynthesis in plants so they can grow and produce food for earth’s creatures. When they die, God-designed recyclers (insects, worms, fungi, and microorganisms) compost that plant matter, turning it into nutrient-rich soil in which new plant life can grow. We breathe in oxygen then exhale carbon dioxide. The plants adorning our planet—from small, backyard marigolds to the towering Amazon rain forest—convert carbon dioxide back into clean, pure oxygen.
These systems of renewal, sustainability, and recycling built into life on earth are just the tip of the iceberg. Our world is full of examples of God’s provision for His creation through the environmental systems and cycles He designed! Breathe deep, take a drink, dig in the soil . . . and worship.
Praise God for His ongoing provision in your life and in all of creation.
Kelli B. Trujillo is the author of the Flourishing Faith series (Wesleyan Publishing House), devotional studies to fit into the busy lives of women. She also loves hiking and sky-gazing.
