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Chapter 1—God’s Love for Man
Nature and the Bible both tell us of God’s love. Our Father in
heaven gives us life, wisdom, and joy. Look at the wonderful and
beautiful things of nature. Think of the many ways they provide for
the needs and happiness of all living creatures.
The sunshine and rain tell of our Creator’s love. The hills, seas,
and plains speak of Him. He supplies the daily needs of every
creature. In the beautiful Psalms David wrote of God:
“All living things look hopefully to you,
and you give them food when they need it.
You give them enough
and satisfy the needs of all.”
Psalm 145:15, 16.
God made Adam and Eve perfectly holy and happy. The earth
was beautiful as it came from the Creator’s hand. Nothing was
spoiled or dying. But Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s law—His law
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of love. Disobedience brought sadness and death. Yet God showed
His love even when sin was causing suffering.
The Bible says that God cursed the ground for the good of human
beings
Genesis 3:17
. He permitted thorns and weeds to grow. He
allowed trials and troubles to fill people’s lives with work and care.
These troubles were to help lift men and women out of the ruin and
shame caused by sin. But this sinful world is not all sorrow and pain.
Nature itself gives us messages of hope and comfort. Flowers grow
on the weeds, and roses cover the thorns.
The fact that “God is love” is shown by every opening flower
and blade of grass. Lovely birds singing their happy songs tell us of
God’s tender care. The bright flowers that sweeten the air and the
tall green trees of the forest remind us that He wants to make His
children happy.
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