|
Listen to this devotional: |
Listen while you read: "Who Is He In Yonder Stall"1 (Lyrics) |
Isaiah 64:8 – But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand. (ESV)
Psalm 139:13-14 – For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (NIV)
My interest in box turtles seems to be having an effect on those around me. They want to know more about one of the most charming and docile creatures on this planet. Some of my friends enjoy giving me gifts with a turtle theme. I've received such items as coasters, towels, books, salt and pepper shakers, night lights, and various types of knick-knacks.
Many box turtles have yellow and orange starburst patterns on their shells, which serve as camouflage, allowing the animals to blend in with their natural surroundings. Thus, a design fashioned by their Creator enables this species a better chance for survival. Though patterns may appear similar, each one is different, like that of a snowflake or a human fingerprint.
Recently, I read an article which made the following statement: "Architecture of the Turtle Shell: The turtle shell is a masterpiece of nature's engineering." These words prompted me to propose the biblical alternative. The Scriptures make it clear that God, not nature, is the Master Engineer, the Lord of all creation. Consider this: If our Creator designed each turtle shell to be unique, then how much more are human beings made to be special in His eyes! Though we may share some similarities, no two individuals are exactly alike.
Moreover, as believers, we have each been given special talents and abilities to be used according to God's purpose and for the glory of His name. Therefore, it is a good idea for each one of us to ask the Holy Spirit to help us list the unique qualities and gifts He has given to us, and then ask ourselves: In what ways am I personally using these talents to bless others and advance God's kingdom?
Prayer: Almighty God, we praise You for all the wonders of Your creation, and for the work of Your Holy Spirit Who is shaping us into the image of Your Son. Help us this day to develop and use our gifts to better serve You through Jesus Christ our Lord, in Whose holy name, we pray. Amen.
Forward this devotional Share this devotional on Facebook Like PresbyCan on Facebook
Although PresbyCan doesn't have a mobile app, you can still have a PresbyCan icon on your mobile phone home screen. 
Saturday, April 20, 2024 – In Niger — We had some wonderful cool weather through January and February which was a real blessing as we approach the hot season in April/May. We welcomed three returning students who had been delay due to the coup d'état. Pray for a resolution to the coup, and for endurance during the hot season and power cuts. Pray for the salvation and growth of our students.
Housing: "Update April 18, 2024: The judge granted the father 4 extra days of visitation per month. T is..." 
Good one Lori!
May it be so, Lori. A great word.
Again, thank you for a beautiful Devotion. I am thankful you are there for
us and Him!!!
Thanks Lori for this devotional. Isn’t it interesting how modern culture wants to eliminate all reference to God . . . as if by doing so they will scrub Him from existence. Not likely to happen. As a child Dad wouldn’t allow us to keep a cat or dog, but he did allow me to keep baby turtles in an aquarium. Have loved the critters ever since, but I will never keep another one. My wee dog and the neighborhood cat are enough. Blessings.
Hi Lori
Good words as always
Blessings.
A recent study of Ephesians 2:10 (“For we are God’s masterpiece…”) caused me to look up the definition: outstanding; the best piece of work.
I’ve seen it used to describe just about everything – it’s the only way God knows how to work!