“Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said: “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me. “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?” (Job 38:1–7, ESV)
Getting Out Of The House
As I’ve been thinking about the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve been increasingly recognizing the need for people to get out of the house. Yes, I know that we are supposed to be self-quarantining and exercising social-distancing. I’m not talking about getting out of the house and heading to a restaurant or a store. I’m talking about the importance of getting out of the house and into the woods (or the plains or the mountains).
It’s A Big World
Thankfully, we live in a BIG world. There’s plenty of room out in nature to practice social-distancing. The natural world around us is even big enough that we could practice isolation. That’s why people often go out “into the woods” to be by themselves—to get away from all the people. During a time when we are being called to separate ourselves from people, one thing we CAN do—and can do A LOT of—is spend time out in nature.
Getting Into Creation
I think many have forgotten the amazing power of fresh air, sunshine, and activity. There’s not much that can refresh the soul like a cool breeze and the warm sunshine on our skin. A brisk walk through the woods can lift the weariest of hearts. A family bike-ride can help get the kids out of the house, help them get active, and create some family memories.
Uplifted Heart and Mind
Recently, I have fallen in love with cycling. I am riding my bike as often as I can. I’ve noticed that when I’m done with a ride, my mind is clear, I feel great, and my emotions have changed positively. God has created us to be outside and active. When we do that, our bodies respond accordingly.
Charles Spurgeon has a great quote about this saying:
“He who forgets the humming of the bees among the heather, the cooing of the wood-pigeons in the forest, the song of birds in the woods, the rippling of rills among the rushes, and the sighing of the wind among the pines, needs not wonder if his heart forgets to sing and his soul grows heavy. A day’s breathing of fresh air upon the hills, or a few hours, ramble in the beech woods’ umbrageous calm, would sweep the cobwebs out of the brain of scores of our toiling ministers who are now but half alive. A mouthful of sea air, or a stiff walk in the wind’s face, would not give grace to the soul, but it would yield oxygen to the body, which is next best.”
God’s Reminder to Job
One of the biggest reasons we should get out into Creation is that it points us back to God. In the midst of Job’s massive crisis, God tells Job to look at Creation. He tells Job to look at the birds, the fish, the trees, etc. and remember who created them. Not only has God created them, but He is upholding them with his hand—sending rain and clouds and sun in His timing. God was in control when he brought creation into being, and He hasn’t taken a break since. He is still on his throne and still in control.
Creation & Anxiety
In a time when things are changing and anxiety is increasing, spending time out in creation reminds us who is control. All of creation is shouting this reminder: “God created this and He is in control!” We need to remember this.
Getting out and going for a walk in the woods is a good way to imprint this reminder deep within our souls.