We have been fortunate to embrace nature at it’s finest these last few days as we have camped in a field, surrounded by trees and in an isolated area. It has been so humbling.

Twigs blooming into leafy branches in the four days since we arrived. Mayflowers and Trillium bursting forth. Dandelions that face the sun by day and close up very tightly when the sun goes down.

Butterflies and bees pollenating the dandelions. Berries growing on the branches of the shrubs for the birds to feed from and a myriad of birds, creating a stunning dawn chorus and enjoying their choir practise all day in the trees.

Eagles and hawks soar over head, able to see their prey from way above, with wings guided by the air pockets they glide through. Geese went honking overhead communicating whilst they fly in formation. A lesson for us to build each other up with kind words and acts of kindness whilst listening carefully to the needs of others.

The sun that rises and spreads its rays loaded with warmth and then at the end of the day sets – each night in a different position in the sky, lighting the horizon up with beautiful colours. The sun rises every single day without fail, reminding us that steady, reliable effort is the foundation of success and even on the cloudiest days, the sun is still present and shining above; it teaches us to remember our strength during our weakest or darkest moments.

One amazing fact is that all these habitats we have been witnessing are mutually supporting each other and work with each other in harmony to sustain life and growth.

Psalm 24:1 famously proclaims, "The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof".

As humans we have benefited too – reduced stress levels and the sense of wellbeing is incredible. Forest bathing under the canopy of the trees and sound bathing amongst the birds. Connecting nature with ourselves in a meaningful way whilst boosting our immunity and no doubt lowering our blood pressure. Even our sleep was better! Exposure to sunlight in the day, being mindful of the power of the sun and aware of the risk of too much sun yet helping the body to absorb vitamin D more effectively. Sleeping in the pitch dark, no white noise, no traffic, no streetlights just the deafening sound of silence. Popping our head out the trailer door on a middle of the night toilet break to witness a myriad of stars and more appearing each second we gazed up. Such a sense of awe and thankfulness that we are part of Gods creation.

Maybe you do not have the ability to go out to the country – but you may have a local park close by or a garden that you can just sit and take time to think, to pause, to breathe and look around you. You will be amazed at the nature around you!

We were amazed by the beauty of Gods design in the natural world as we sat back and observed, taking time to listen to nature. This reminds us that we need to remain vigilant with ears turned on as we read God’s word listening for the subtle whispers of God’s guidance.

As we observed the switch in nature from winter to spring, we were reminded that every season has a purpose, stillness has a value and strength comes from deep within the foundations of the earth. Nature can help us navigate our own lives by mirroring the harmony found in nature.

Trees teach us resilience as they, like us, can weather the storm, lose branches yet continue to grow – we too can adapt to life’s challenges. We need to have faith in Gods timing just like the seasons and let go of what no longer serves us – trees and plants do this too!

Nature teaches us to slow down – it never rushes yet their cycle repeats itself year after year. Flowers bloom and unfold in their own time. God created nature to sustain itself.

Matthew 6 verse 26 tells us – “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable.”

Jesus reminds us that God provides for even the smallest creatures, and we are worth so much more to Him. Worrying about the future won't change anything, but trusting in God's care brings peace. If He feeds the birds, won't He also take care of you? We too can support each other. The Bible, God’s word contains so much great advice for life.  Join us, to explore further what He has in store for us.