Remember previously the scripture said, “In the beginning, God created the sky and the dirt?” That’s the author’s way of saying, God made everything you can see. All above and below. In the second and third periods (“yom” in Hebrew) of creation, the land was separated and rose above the sea. God also placed plants on the land.
“Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.”
Genesis 1:11 ESV
We can see that God is preparing a place for life to live, thrive, and flourish. The blessing of a place to live begins here. The beginning of the food chain begins here. The metaphors are really interesting to me but first, lets realize the literal provision in all of this.
“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light upon the earth.’ And it was so.”
Genesis 1:14-15 ESV
Then God clarifies the atmosphere and the Sun, Moon, and stars begin to peak through and figuratively begin to rule the days, nights, and seasons. Without these time markers in the sky, we wouldn’t learn to navigate or plan for seasons of sowing and reaping. There is a multitude of benefits that we received as humanity began to study the motions of heavenly bodies.
How should we then move? Begin by receiving the gifts of God in all their diversity and beauty. Receive with thanks the provision and resources that God has supplied from the beginning.
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