The Falls
Day 94 - Zephaniah 3:17
Scripture
Zephaniah 3:17 ESV
The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
Reflection
My husband and I love traveling together and exploring new places! I feel the most connected to God when I am in nature. Nothing makes me feel more alive than being surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation.
I love hearing the sounds of the waves crashing on the rocks. I love seeing the contrast of colors that burst when two elements collide. The green hues of the trees, every shade of blue in the ocean, the range of colors formed by volcanic rock, and the sands that change depending on the unique makeup of that particular beach. I love the smell of the rain before the storm hits the bay. The taste of the fruit that was just plucked from a tropical tree. The vibrant color of the flowers that delicately offer a feminine touch to an otherwise powerful scene.
I love being completely consumed by nature. I crave it, like my lungs need air. Nothing makes me feel more present, thankful, and at peace.
I know it’s silly, but sometimes I get sad thinking about all the beautiful parts of the world I may never get to see. But every time I feel this way, the Lord reminds me that He created the Heavens and the Earth! The day I get to be in His presence will be better than anything I’ve ever pictured. Our hearts will be so full, our minds will be at peace, our bodies overcome with joy in awe of our Father. I can only imagine how perfect it will be.
We don’t have to be in Heaven or in nature to experience His presence. He’s all around us. All of creation is a reflection of His love for you. When we sing His praises, He fills the room. When His people gather in prayer, He fills our hearts. When you’re all alone, He is embracing you. When you're lost, He’s there to bring you back home. When you’re brokenhearted, He is there to wipe your tears and comfort you. When you’ve made a mistake, He meets you with grace and compassion. When you need a break, He’s there to give you rest. When you’re angry, He whispers gently to soothe your soul.
So rejoice today because He is with you! He is jumping for joy and singing praises over you! He is rejoicing over you! Be still in His presence, and soak up all of His love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I can’t wait to see You face to face. I can’t wait for the moment I get to see You on Your throne. Thank You for meeting me where I am. Thank You for giving me a taste of how wonderful it will be. Thank You for blessing me with the freedom to worship openly. Thank You for loving me and rejoicing over me. I am honored to serve You. I am blessed to have a close, personal, and intimate relationship with You. Thank You for Your grace and mercy. Thank You for forgiving me and casting my sin as far as the East is from the West. Thank You for preparing a place for me and offering me the gift of eternal life. I am in awe of You, Lord. Amen.
Reflection Question
When or where do you feel closest to God?
How does it make you feel to know that He is present, rejoicing, and singing over you?
Thank You!
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English Standard Version (ESV)
The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025.