They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. (Romans 1:19-20)

Read: 1 Chronicles 15:1 – 16:36, Romans 1:18-32, Psalm 10:1-15, Proverbs 19:6-7

Relate: Have you ever heard of “Your Amazing Places“? I’m not sure if it’s technically a travel blog or a tourism catch all or what. I never really read the articles. I just go for the photography. They have some of the most beautiful shots of the most beautiful places in the world. For example:

Aogashima Volcano

Glow Worm Cave

Hamilton Pool

Melissani Cave

These are just some of the recent offerings. They have new stuff up there all the time plus there is a top 100 places in the world you’ve just got to check out.

React: One of the major advantages of living in Istanbul is the architectural beauty everywhere. Of course there’s the major tourist traps like the Hagia Sophia Church, Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Christea Turris, Suleymaniye Mosque, etc. beyond those, it seems as if every block anywhere in the city has its own historical treasure that has been there since well before George Washington was even a twinkle in his daddy’s eye. The thing is, nobody would ever walk into the Blue Mosque, look around, and comment, “Isn’t it just amazing how this mosque just randomly happened to come together?” No. It is a work of art. It was born of genius, built through time and effort, and is now enjoyed by many. No idiot would think it was just slapped together by a happy conjunction or wind and water through time and chance.

As beautiful as all that architecture is, and as awe inspiring as such works by masters like Rubens, Rembrandt, and Picasso might be, they cannot begin to compare to the artwork God creates like the Aogashima Volcano and the Melissani Cave. Even more, He isn’t just a one hit wonder. Every evening at sunset and every morning at sunrise, God is creating another masterpiece far beyond the greatest work of human genius. It really does take a special kind of stupid to be able to see these works and not give their Creator the glory He so richly deserves.

Respond: 

God I thank You for Your mastery. Your divine nature and creative power are clearly revealed, help me to keep my eyes open and see. You handiwork is everywhere I turn. Help me to open my eyes and see, not just what You have done, but also how You did it and are holding it all together. Let me never lose the wonder at what You have made. Let me never grow so distracted by the things of life that I forget to live.