This summer, King of Kings is embarking on a special sermon series: S’more Sunday. Each week, our sermon will explore including God in every layer of our lives, just like a s’more—from a solid foundation to a sweet inside to transformational fire and beyond.
In celebration of this sermon series, we invite you to join us in reflection and prayer about summer’s other staple: campfires and the great outdoors. Being in nature often stirs reflection and wonder, revealing God’s character and offering rich devotion material. Gathering around the fire with friends and family can be a wonderful time to explore the mysteries and joys of God’s love for us.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a backyard stargazer, these devotions about nature will help your family and friends connect with Scripture under the stars.
BIBLE VERSES ABOUT NATURE
Genesis 1:29-31
“God said, ‘See, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is upon the face of all the earth and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the air and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.’ And it was so. God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.”
The Takeaway: God has blessed us with abundance on Earth, and each creature fulfils His intention of harmony and order. Think about the purpose of how each animal you see, from birds to tiny bugs, plays in God’s plan.
Discussion Question: What does the inclusion of “very” mean at the completion of creation, especially after the repeated use of just “good” each previous day of creation?
Psalm 19:1
“The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.”
The Takeaway: Look up and appreciate God’s glory through the vastness of the sky and the beauty of the moon, stars, and planets.
Discussion Question: How can observing God’s creation lead us to praise Him more?
Romans 1:20
“Ever since the creation of the world God’s eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been seen and understood through the things God has made.”
The Takeaway: All you need to do is look closely to see God everywhere and feel His divine presence in everything He created. Spend some extra time during your next hike or walk to look out for the little things.
Discussion Question: How does God’s “eternal power” and “divine nature,” revealed in creation, impact our understanding of the universe and our place in it?
Job 12:7-10
“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, the birds of the air, and they will tell you; ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you, and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of every human being.”
The Takeaway: The Lord speaks to the Earth every day through its bountiful creatures. From the birds in the sky to the crickets you’ll hear around the campfire, it’s easy to observe God’s creation if you keep your eyes and ears open. This Scripture verse about nature will inspire you to be observant in the great outdoors.
Discussion Question: How can we honor the animals that are part of God’s divine creation?
Matthew 6:26
“Look at the birds of the air: They neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”
The Takeaway: Trust in God’s abundance and provisions. Consider times when God has brought you plenty when you needed it most.
Discussion Question: How can we apply this verse in our daily lives, especially when we feel the pressure of not having enough?
1 Kings 19:11-13
“He said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain before the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.’ Now there was a great wind, so strong that it was splitting mountains and breaking rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind, and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake, and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire, and after the fire a sound of sheer silence. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Then there came a voice to him that said, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’”
The Takeaway: God’s voice can be found not in great, loud displays, but in a gentle, subtle whisper. Pay attention to the still, small voice that can be easy to miss in the busy daily shuffle.
Discussion Question: What does it mean that God comes in small, quiet moments rather than grand gestures? How does this challenge our assumptions?
Hebrews 12:28-29
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable worship with reverence and awe, for indeed our God is a consuming fire.”
The Takeaway: Just like a S’more needs fire to come together, Christians should recognize that God’s fire is part of His deep love and holiness. He is merciful and gracious, and His presence invites us to respond with gratitude, reverence and awe. God’s “consuming fire” isn’t just about power, it also represents His refining work in us.
Discussion Question: What does it mean to worship God with “reverence and awe?” How can we incorporate this into our daily worship?
NATURE DEVOTIONAL IDEAS
Gather your small group around the campfire and reflect on the nature Bible verses above. For a more immersive experience, try one of these nature-themed devotions:
Birdwatching
Explore how animals reflect God’s provision and design by guiding your group in a birdwatching outing. You don’t have to go far—even just your own backyard provides plenty of opportunity to sit back, listen, and watch for inspiration.
Silent Prayer Walk
Focus on listening to the still small voice in the wilderness on a peaceful, reflective walk in nature. Solitude in nature creates space to hear God. After your walk, consider gathering in a small group to discuss your individual experiences.
Stargazing
Take a break from enjoying the fire to look heavenward. God’s majesty can be seen in the wonder and awe that a starry night inspires. Reflect on these verses and God’s perfect creation of the world with your group as you take in the beautiful starry sights.
Nature Photo Walk
Everything is beautiful in its time, so use nature’s seasons as a lens for spiritual growth. As you hike or enjoy a walking trail, spend time snapping pics of God’s creation in all its glory, and reflect on what God is growing or pruning in your life. Afterwards, have a small group discussion about what inspired you, and have everyone share their best photos.
CARRY THE FLAME
Even after the campfire dies down, King of Kings provides plenty of opportunities for worshippers to continue their spiritual reflection. In support of the S’more Sunday sermon series, we encourage you to create your own nature-themed devotions and share your favorite verses about nature with a small group or on social media. If you’re looking to gather together, we invite you to join our community. We worship in person and online, with both traditional and contemporary services available.
Check out our S’more Sundays sermons on these dates:
- 8/3: The Graham Cracker – A Firm Foundation
- 8/10: The Chocolate – Sweet Promises
- 8/17: The Marshmallow – Soft Hearts
- 8/24: The Fire – God’s Refining Work
- 8/31: The Bite – Taste and See
If you’re looking to grow in faith or experience a spiritual rekindling, we at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Woodbury, MN, would love to meet you!