The book of nature open lies, with much instruction stored; but till the Lord anoints our eyes, we cannot read a word.
Philosophers have pored in vain, and guessed, from age to age; for reason’s eye could ne’er attain, to understand a page.
Though to each star they give a name, its size and motions teach; the truths which all the stars proclaim, their wisdom cannot reach.
With skill to measure earth and sea; and weigh the subtle air; they cannot, LORD, discover thee, though present everywhere.
The knowledge of the saints excels the wisdom of the schools; to them his secrets God reveals, though men account them fools.
To them the sun and stars on high, the flow’rs that paint the field, and all the artless birds that fly, divine instruction yield.
The creatures on their senses press, as witnesses to prove their Savior’s pow’r, and faithfulness, His providence and love.
Thus may we study nature’s book to make us wise indeed! and pity those who only look at what they cannot read.
JS January 25, 2024
Picture: After several cloudy, dark misty days: this sun rise!
The book of nature is a hymn (8.6.8.6) by John Newton and refers to Paul’s letter to the Romans chapter 1 verse 20-23 ’ From the beginning, creation in its magnificence enlightens us to His nature. Creation itself makes His undying power and divine identity clear, even though they are invisible; and it voids the excuses and ignorant claims of these people (the god-less) 21 because, despite the fact that they knew the one true God, they have failed to show the love, honor, and appreciation due to the One who created them! Instead, their lives are consumed by vain thoughts that poison their foolish hearts. 22 They claim to be wise; but they have been exposed as fools, frauds, and con artists— 23 only a fool would trade the splendor and beauty of the immortal God to worship images of the common man or woman, bird or reptile, or the next beast that tromps along.’ Tr. The Voice
On the Road 