Wake Up and Smell the Roses
Wake Up and Smell the Roses: Finding Life in God’s Creation
Scripture:
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” — Matthew 6:25
Get Ready! Hurry Up! Let’s Go!
Let’s be honest — life moves fast. We hustle, plan, worry, and chase after the next thing — a better job, a cleaner house, more money, more security. But in all our rushing and striving, we can miss the beauty of simply trusting in His care.
God is trying to show us that He has already provided ALL we need for this life He has given us. As 2 Peter 1:3 reminds us, “His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness.”
The Heavens Are Preaching
In His great wisdom, God has given us heavenly reminders. Psalm 19:1 reminds us that creation itself is a living witness — a daily testament of God’s majesty. His glory is written across the morning sky and whispered through the wind. We don’t need to attend a conference or scroll through endless motivational posts to see God’s handiwork. Just look up. The heavens preach without words. The sunrise paints His faithfulness anew each morning. The stars echo His constancy night after night.
The Flowers Are Speaking
In Matthew 6:28, 29, Jesus speaks directly to our restless hearts. He knows how easily we slip into anxiety. We worry about tomorrow, about bills, about the unknown. But Jesus says — look at the lilies — they don’t strive nor spin, yet their beauty tells us that God will always provide for us. It’s as if Jesus is saying, “Wake up and smell the roses.”
Reality Check
Let’s be real — it’s easy to read “don’t worry” but think, “have you seen my calendar?” The car needs gas, the fridge needs groceries, and the dog just ate the corner of the couch (again). It’s in those moments that “not worrying” feels unrealistic — but that’s exactly where we meet Jesus. He’s not telling us to ignore real life; He’s reminding us that even in the chaos, He will provide for us. So, instead of rushing out the door with coffee spilling and stress rising, let's pause — just for a second — and learn from nature.
Slow Down and Trust
When we pause long enough to pay attention — to the sound of leaves rustling, to the warmth of sunlight, to the cheerfulness of the birds — we’re reminded that life is not about relentless striving, but about sacred noticing. So, next time anxiety starts to creep in, do what Psalm 19 and Matthew 6 invite us to do — look up, slow down, and breathe deep. The heavens are declaring His glory. The earth is singing His faithfulness. And if you pause long enough, you’ll experience the sweet aroma of His love.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the beauty that surrounds us every day — the skies that declare Your glory, the flowers that show Your care, and the stillness that reminds us You are near. Forgive us for the times we rush, worry, and forget to rest in You. Help us to slow down, to notice Your hand at work, and to trust that You are providing for us even when life feels chaotic. Teach us to breathe deeply of Your peace, to find joy in the simple things, and to rest in Your faithful love. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
