What inspires you?
I’m a member of a weekly discussion group online. Each Wednesday one of us suggests a question to answer or a quote to consider and comment on. Last week the question was “What inspires you?”
Of the fifteen or so participants in attendance, most responded with ‘nature.’ Others said ‘people.’ Maybe we could put those together– ‘people and nature’ or ‘people in nature.’
For me, hiking in the mountains with friends, walking among the wildflowers in Yosemite, watching and listening to the birds in my yard, strolling the beach as the waves crash on the shore–and so much more.
God’s beautiful creation is such a gift. On a rough day, there is nothing better in my mind than time in nature–even if for just a few moments.
Life is difficult for so many people in our world right now. My prayer is that they will have even a glimpse of the sky or a flower or a tree to lift their spirit to what God has created for all of us, wherever we are and in whatever circumstances.
Job 12: 7-10: But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.
I posted this question on Instagram and Facebook yesterday! Great minds – or rather Holy Spirit led minds in unity. 🙂 Nature is definitely my inspiring place – especially the beach. How can we see all the intricacies God has created without giving him praise? In Psalm 8, David says when he considers the night sky, the sun and moon and stars, he wonders how God is mindful of us. The awesome works of God blow our minds, but even more incredible is him reaching out to us in relationship through Jesus. That is truly inspiring! Thanks for your post!
Such a lovely comment and so nice to hear from you. I hope all is well.
This question brought an anthem to my mind. I sang in my church choir for many years and so many of the songs stuck in my mind. This was written by the great hymn-writer Tom Fettke Based on Luke:19:40
“From the corners of creation
Come the people of the Living God.
Ev’ry tongue and ev’ry nation
Gather now to praise the Lord!
If we keep our voices silent,
All creation will rise and shout.
If we fail to praise You, Father,
Then will the very rocks cry out.
From a world of tribulation
Come and let your voice be raised.
Join us now in congregation.
Let the Living God be praised.
If we keep our voices silent,
All creation will rise and shout.
If we fail to praise You, Father,
Then will the very rocks cry out.”
Such a beautiful hymn!! Thank you for sharing these lyrics.
My inspiration comes from all of God’s creation. Who else could create such a diverse array of beauty… and yes astonishing variety. No matter where I go there is some example of God’s creative hand.
Thank you, Karen for that timely topic.
The world seems so unsettled. But I believe in God’s steady hand.
So beautifully stated, Joan. I totally agree.
Sunsets, full moon, the blue clouds in the sky, a rainbow, all the animals we see in our yard: deer’s, Sand Hill Cranes,squirrels,birds, people who give their time to helping others! So many things God has created for us to enjoy and I am so thankful I can see them and feel the love of my family and others. So many people are an inspiration to me.
Thanks,Karen. I am thankful for you and for Charles as my good buddy and friend when we were in High School! LOVE YOU
Thank you, Margaret. Charles treasured your friendship and I have too.
You do.
Thank you.
Smiles, BRC
Thank you, Beth. Warm blessings on you.
Karen, I remember when my son was young and the LA riots happened. He said
“Mum, no wonder they are angry they probably have never seen a butterfly or a bright colored bird to enjoy God’s wonders for us” I still enjoy everything God created for us.
What a lovely ‘share’, Lynn. I’m so touched by your son’s comment. Thanks for sharing it.