The long dry summer season in Lebanon and Israel usually ends in October with welcome rains that are often accompanied by strong winds, lightning, and thunder.

The writer of Psalm 29 may have had in mind an autumn storm as it moved from the Mediterranean Sea across Lebanon (v.5), down through the wilderness (v.8), and over the temple in Jerusalem (v.9). He spoke of the storm’s elements as “the voice of the Lord” (v.3), and the joyful response of the worshipers in the temple as they shouted, “Glory!” (v.9). The psalm closes with the people of God enjoying the peace He alone can give (v.11).

Seeing and hearing a violent storm is an awesome experience that quite naturally turns one’s thoughts to God. In Romans 1:20, Paul told his readers that God’s eternal power and Godhead are clearly seen in the created world. He makes Himself known through nature. I’ve heard His “voice” many times—in the stillness of the woods after a heavy snowfall, in a gentle breeze, or in the singing of birds on a spring morning.

Yes, God speaks to us through His marvelous creation. His power and majesty are inescapable if we would just pause to listen. Like the people of ancient Israel, let us respond, “Glory!”  —Herb Vander Lugt