Environmentally speaking, it’s not hard to see the handwork of a mighty God. The weather conditions causing the intricate frost pattern on my front door serve as an instigator for just such an “aha” moment. “A mighty God works in the universe” IS the hidden message of nature. Psalm 148 illustrates this by listing astronomical and creature praise tributes.

“Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him, all you stars of light! Praise Him you highest heavens and you waters above the Heavens! Let them praise the name of the Lord, for He commanded and they were created. He also established them forever and ever; He made a decree which shall not pass away- He fixed their bounds which cannot be passed over.” (Vs. 3-6)

“You lightening, hail, fog, and frost, you stormy wind fulfilling His orders!” (Vs. 8 )

These expressions by the Psalmist help me.

By God’s word, my universe was created, and by His word, it is controlled. By this same power, MY life is bound. He IS in control!

My praise will be “frosty” if I think of God as “wimpy” or if I am wary of Him—wondering what catastrophe He will allow next.

However, in recent years have I come to realize that not all calamities are personal. (Death, illness, and loss are circumstances of a fallen world.)  BUT all of God’s rescue or sustaining tactics for me are very personal. He knows. He cares. He is good and powerful in all that is weak or wrong around me. He shines!

In difficult times, if I will open my eyes, see Him, and trust Him, then He will teach me new things.

The psalm writer notes this “personal” rescue style of God. It begins with citing God’s power. In biblical times, the phrase, “lifting up a horn” symbolized power—like a fist raised. My “fist raised” power symbol today is Jesus!

“He has lifted up a horn for His people (giving them power, prosperity, dignity, and preeminence), a song of praise for all His godly ones, for the people of Israel, who are near to Him. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)

Hallelujah!

My prayer

God you are everything that should be awe-inspiring to me. Help me to see the “lifted up horn” of You –alone. Scrape the crud out of my eyes, and let me reflect, (as all nature does), the wonder of Your handiwork in my life. You chose US to benefit from YOU, so if I/we don’t see Your blessing then we must have blinders on. Please remove our visual obstacles and let us see Your glory! Amen