God's Handiwork

I just returned from a wonderful vacation with my wife. For as long as I can remember I wanted to see the Sequoia trees in California, and that dream was fulfilled by visiting Sequoia National Park. I tell you I was in awe looking at the size of these beautiful trees. As I stood looking up, I felt so small. That is me in the first picture above looking up at the "General Sherman Tree," the largest tree. Actually according to the US Park Service, the "General Sherman" is the largest tree (by volume) in the world.

In case you are unfamiliar with the Sequoias,  I would like to share some interesting facts from the pamphlet the Park Service hands out when you enter the park. They grow up to a height of 311 feet, live over 3,000 years, weigh up to 2.7 million pounds and have a diameter at the base of up to 40 feet. The "General Sherman Tree" is estimated to be 2,200 years old. Just think, it was living 200 years before Christ was on earth. The trees usually do not die from old age, but from falling over. These trees are resistant to fire and insect damage. I suppose a young tree could be burnt up, but the thick bark and size of the larger trees makes them fire resistant.

I suppose many wonder how it could be that these trees get so big and just keep on living. I do not know, but maybe some scientist could offer up a "scientific answer," but the answer is actually quite simple. That is, it is by God's design that these trees grow as they do.

For all those who say, "There is no evidence for God," I would like to propose to you the evidence is right before your eyes. Take a look at all the design in creation, you see evidence for God. When you look at a new born child or gaze at the stars, you see His handiwork. Examine of all the species and kinds of life on earth, each unique is its own way, the proof for God is before your eyes. When you look at a building you know someone designed and created it. Same way, when you look at creation you know their is a Creator. If there was no God, how did we get here? Either the matter which makes up the universe existed forever and then it began to evolve all on it's own. Or else it created it self from absolutely nothing. Either that, or everything is just an illusion. Try that allusion thing if you ever break a leg and say, "it's just an illusion."

I believe it takes more faith to believe there is no God than to believe in God. The problem is, if there is a God, then it is only logical to conclude that one would have to answer to Him. Because of our pride, we want to make the rules and answer to no one. I know before I became a Christian, I willfully believed a lie because I wanted to live as I pleased, without any consequences. One must remember, all the things God instructs us in is for our own good, just like a parent does with their child.

Just one last point. While my wife and I were enjoying the beauty of these amazing Sequoia's, we met a Christian woman who made a comment I would like to share with you. "Just look at how amazing and beautiful this is. Can you imagine what heaven will be like?" 

¹⁸ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, ¹⁹ because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. ²⁰ For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,  (Romans 1:18-20 NKJV)

The heavens declare the glory of God;

And the firmament shows His handiwork.

(Psalms 19:1 NKJV)