I took my dog outside the other night. As I sat out there on our front porch step, I watched two deer peacefully just standing in my yard. One eventually casually left, the other one stayed for a bit and she looked right at me as I talked to her. She knew I wasn’t going to harm her. Not even my dog bothered her. I looked up at the night sky and the stars were so visible, bright and pretty. The air was slightly chilled, but in a refreshing sort of way. I felt like I could just really breathe, I felt at peace and the night air seemed to give me more oxygen in my lungs. I felt more connected to God in a way too. I truly love nature and everything in it. God is truly the greatest artist. I have found that being outside brings a sense of peace over me, I know its because I am standing in God’s creation. Friend, whether you just need to unwind, destress, or you just want to really breathe and relax, step outside. Look at His critters, take in the beauty of nature, look at the sky, see the stars that twinkle, feel the light breeze on your back, take a breath. It sure is beautiful isn’t it, all that God has created? May we enjoy it and praise Him for it. The sweet deer eventually strolled off and I relished in that moment and was so grateful for it.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Unwind in nature

Psalm 19:1 NIV

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Psalm 104:24 NIV

How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.

Romans 1:20 NIV

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.