Wonders of God's Creation: Volume 2

In His hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is His also. The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land." Psa. 95:4,5.

The creation around us did not, and could not, evolve from an imperfect beginning as some claim. On the contrary, it required perfection and completeness when created. Nothing was left to chance, for chance always results in falling away, rather than building up. Nature abhors all that is strange to it, as we notice among wild-animal mothers who produce imperfect offspring and immediately abandon them. Evolutionists conveniently overlook this fact in their unsound doctrine.

There is great satisfaction to those who believe the Bible in recognizing the supreme power and wisdom of God, the divine Creator, who through His Son, the Lord Jesus, made all things "visible and invisible" complete and perfect when brought into being and who now is "upholding all things by the word of His power."

Typical of opposition to God's order of things, in July 1985, a newspaper printed this question: "What makes people cling to creationism with such tenacity?" (Or, put another way—why are there people who won't give up believing in creation and a Creator?) Then the article answers its own question: "It is a linchpin (a bolt that keeps a wheel from falling off its axle) of fundamentalism which insists that every word in the Bible is literally true."

Well, that was a good answer, even though the writer indicated he isn't one who believes the Word of God is true. Our divine Creator built a "linchpin" into everything He created to keep it from wandering away on an "evolutionary course," like a wagon smashing into the ditch when there are no linchpins to keep it in proper order.

In the same article, the writer said, "The issue of evolution vs. the Bible will not go away," and added, "They [who believe in creation] show no signs of giving up." May all who love the Lord and believe the Bible story of creation, thank Him that this is so.

Surely Satan, who in the Bible is referred to as "the god of this world," is pleased to have teachers follow the pattern favored by the newspaper article. It is always his purpose to turn hearts and minds away from the true God of heaven and earth. Those who follow his wicked doctrines are described in the Bible as "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.... who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator." Rom. 1:22,25.

Do not fall into their snares. Rely, instead, on a firm foundation—the precious truth of God's Word, the Bible.

Why Do Some Deny Creation?

He [God] is wise in heart, and mighty in strength; who hath hardened himself against Him, and hath prospered?" Job 9:4.

H. G. Wells, a prominent evolutionist, plainly expressed why he didn't want to believe in Creation when he wrote the following in his book Outline of History: "If all animals and men evolved (rather than being created), then there were no first parents—no Eden—no fall (sin). And if there had been no fall, then.... Christianity—the story of the first sin and the reason for atonement collapses like a house of cards."

That makes his choice quite clear, doesn't it? All evolutionists who believe as Mr. Wells did, are really saying: "There's no truth to the Bible account of Adam and Eve and their bringing sin into the world, or of needing a Savior to cleanse us from our sins. So let's deny creation and substitute evolution. That way we can convince ourselves we won't have to believe in God or Jesus Christ as the Savior of sinners." What a sad ending awaits those who follow such foolish reasoning. Our opening verse speaks of such people and the Bible also declares about them: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men." Rom. 1:18.

Those of you attending public school probably have been, or soon will be, instructed that evolution is true and creation untrue. You may have to listen to and read such teaching, but do not believe these terrible lies, for you can have full confidence in the Bible, the true Word of God.

A very happy part of Christian life is seeing the beauty, wisdom and wonder of God's creation whether in the untold billions of stars overhead, or in a tiny bit of life under a microscope, getting a glimpse of a 150-ton whale, or admiring the dainty, little fish in your acquarium, in exploring a snow-capped mountain, or looking at the loveliness of a snowflake, seeing a great eagle circling the sky, or a thumb-sized hummingbird gathering nectar, or perhaps gazing at the splendor of an ocean sunset.

In all these and innumerable other examples of God's creation, all who love the Lord have unending pleasure in recognizing His handiwork. By contrast, the evolutionist has only a false and empty pride in thinking his ancestors originated millions of years ago from a tiny speck of matter that finally became a human being. What an impossible, irresponsible and God-dishonoring theory!

How much better it is to accept the Bible invitation: "Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast." Psa. 33:8,9

The Glowing Tailed Comet

"And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night.-He made the stars also." Gen. 1:16.

Astronomers tell us that there are innumerable comets throughout space—more than a trillion in our Milky Way galaxy alone and millions more circling the sun. Many of these, in elliptical orbits, take thousands or even millions of years to complete their circuits. Some comets have heads 50,000 miles in diameter and tails 100 million miles long.

However, from these many comets there are only about two dozen which are known whose circuit brings them close enough to earth that we can see them. One of these, Encke's comet, appears every third year; Biela's and Brooks are two that show up at about seven-year intervals; Halley's comet, which is the most well known of all the comets, comes within sight at 76-year intervals. It is the only one generally seen without special telescopes.

Halley's is thought to weigh about six billion tons and is distinct from all the others with its great fiery tail streaking across the sky. During its path near earth it attracted much attention from astronomers, employing their instruments throughout the world some even using space ships to learn more about it, when it appeared in early 1986.

Astronomers sent up a space ship for a closer look. Using photographic equipment and scientific instruments, they hoped to learn more about it.

No one seems to know what Halley's comet is really made of. Some think of it as solar dust and gases squeezed tightly together, and others guess it is a great frozen ball of ice mixed with dust. But whatever it may be, it is evident that as it draws near the sun the intense heat breaks some of it down into great volumes of vapor. This vapor trail streaking out behind it as a tail millions of miles long and which is exposed to the sun's brilliance, provides the wonderful exhibit admired by so many. Actually, only a small part of the comet is drawn off each time, so its life will continue for whatever period of time the Creator has determined for it.

It is the gravity of the sun that keeps Halley's and other comets in their orbits, drawing them close and then swinging them out great distances into space on precise schedules. This is another example of the wonders of God's creation, for although the sun determines the orbits, it is God who controls them, just as He controls the untold number of stars throughout space.

As David gazed with wonder at the starry skies he exclaimed, "Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad." Psa. 96:11. "The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the people see His glory." Psa. 97:6. When you think of all this glory, what does it mean to you? Is the One who made and controls it your Savior as well as your Creator? Can you say, "This is my Lord and Savior I have put my trust in Him"?

Jupiter - the Colorful Planet

"The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the people see His glory." Psa. 97:6.

High in the sky, 267-million miles from the earth, is the planet Jupiter. This largest of all planets (that we know about) makes its orbit 480-million miles away from the sun at a speed of 28,000 miles per hour. It is heavier than all the other planets put together, as large as 13 earths, and its surface is 120 times as great. Its night and day of only about ten hours contrasts with the earth's 24-hour revolution.

In 1979 the American "Voyager" spacecraft flew by this great planet and discovered that its actual surface could not be photographed because a thick covering of clouds always hides it. Further spacecraft studies are planned in the near future.

Jupiter can be seen from earth by using a strong telescope. Its pink and salmon clouds are a beautiful sight as it shines brightly on a clear night. Perhaps the most interesting and puzzling thing about Jupiter is its 20,000-mile long red spot which seems to drift and change color from time to time and even temporarily disappears. Scientists think it may be caused by volcanoes, but do not really know. It may be caused by the 300 mile per hour whirling storms that scour its surface.

Because Jupiter is almost five times as far from the sun as is the earth, it is extremely cold, and nothing could live on it. No water could exist in its -200° F. temperature. Also, its atmosphere (poisoned by chemicals that erupt from inside it) could never support life even for one moment. Men, properly dressed in space suits, have walked on the moon, but none will ever walk on Jupiter!

This reminds us of the wisdom of God, the Creator, in placing the earth at exactly the right distance from the sun (approximately 93 million miles) to provide the correct amount of heat and light for all the creation He has placed here. David, no doubt thinking of this, said "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge." Psa. 19:1,2.

Jupiter is one of the four, major outer planets of the sun, the others being Uranus, Saturn and Neptune. Not one of them could sustain any form of life. Only the earth was formed for that purpose. Jupiter's attractiveness as a marvel of God's creation includes one large ring around it, discovered by Voyager's trip, plus the fact that it has 16 moons circling it, some with volcanoes erupting on them. Twelve of them circle clockwise and four counter-clockwise.

As we gaze up into the starry sky, let us always remember that all are kept in perfect order by the One who placed them there. In their beauty and the pattern of their orbits, which is always the same, He has taken great pleasure. We are privileged to share their beauty with Him in a small way.

How Many Moons Are There?

"The heavens [skies] are Thine, the earth also is Thine... Thou hast founded them. The north and the south Thou hast created them." Psa. 89:11,12.

One nice thing about the darkness of night is that the stars then make their appearance. Sunshine flooding the land is wonderful to see and enjoy, yet a person cannot gaze at the sun on a clear day without hurting his eyes. But the beauty of a full moon and all the stars shining behind it can be looked at with no harm resulting whatsoever. Most everyone enjoys looking at the wonders of a bright full moon rising in the east, often with a radiant glow, crossing the sky and eventually disappearing in the west.

What an awesome, yet beautiful sight rewards the stargazer, and if assisted with a telescope or binoculars, each point of light becomes increasingly more interesting. The Psalmist, perhaps lying on his back in a grassy field in the dark of night, expressed his wonder at it all saying, "The heavens declare the glory of God." Psa. 19:1. Shouldn't this be the conclusion of all who give serious thought to the beauty of these amazing lights shining through the endless heavens above us.

The moon at night appears to be the largest object in this display because it is so close to us, but it is actually a very small part of the heavens. However, it is well worth our study, particularly when we learn that God has placed it in exactly the right spot over the earth to be of the greatest benefit to all life on this planet. Not only does it give welcome light at night, but it is the principal means of producing and controlling ocean tides. Its force (together with wind) keeps the waters in constant motion, supplying oxygen to the oceans' creatures as well as preventing the oceans from becoming stagnant, harmful and foul smelling. How carefully the Creator made this wonderful arrangement and has kept this balance all the years since creation! "Canst thou by searching find out—God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?" Job 11:7.

Astronauts have now been able to visit the moon, walk on it, photograph mountains higher than Mt. Everest, and closely examine craters of long-extinct volcanoes. They found just what was anticipated-a big globe about one-fourth the earth's size, located 239,000 miles above it, with no life on it, no air, no water, no grass, no green trees, no rivers, no lakes or oceans. As expected, it proved to be a "dead body" in space, but placed by the Lord God in just the exact spot to most benefit the earth.

Praise the Lord, we do not need a telescope to find the Savior! He has said, "I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me." Prov. 8:17. Another Bible verse says, "Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near." Isa. 55:6. Make sure you have done this "while it is called To-day." Heb. 3:13.

Are there other moons? Yes, many, many more. We will consider them on the following page.

The Orbits of Jupiter’s Moons

Countless worlds are ever whirling Through the boundless realms of space, And the hand of Him who made them Keeps each one in its true place.

Reference to "the planetary system" means the nine heavenly bodies (including our earth) that are grouped around the sun and held in their individual orbits by its great gravitational pull. The sun maintains this control because it is 700 times more massive than all the planets and their moons put together. But it is, of course, the Creator who has arranged this grouping and has kept its force operating since the first day of creation-"upholding all things by the word of His power." Heb. 1:3.

In outer space there are untold numbers of moons, but it is only those of "our planetary system" that are familiar to astronomers. In the language of these experts, planets are satellites of the sun, and moons are satellites of the planets.

There are more than 50 known moons and more being discovered with improved instruments. Every planet does not have a moon, but some have two or more. Mars and Neptune each have two, Uranus at least a dozen, Jupiter has 15 and Saturn 21. The earth's moon is just average size. Some are smaller and some almost twice as large.

Many, like ours, are covered with mountains, plains and valleys. Some look like huge snowballs with icy coverings while others have volcanoes erupting on them. They are all interesting examples of the wonders of God's creation.

Each moon follows its own orbit, century after century, keeping its exact position over its planet, never crashing into it or other moons. But the most extraordinary thing is that some circle their planets in one direction and some in another. Only one of the nine planets, Venus (which, incidentally, does not have a moon), orbits around the sun in a clockwise direction. The other eight all travel in the opposite direction. It would almost seem that Venus would interfere with the others, but the Creator does not allow that to happen.

Most moons travel the same direction as the eight planets, but not all. Neroid-one of Neptune's moons-goes in "reverse," but its companion, Triton, moves clockwise. The five moons of Uranus all circle it in the "reverse" direction. But strangest of all are the moons of Jupiter-eleven move around it in the counter-clockwise motion, but the other four in just the opposite direction! Did the Creator make an error in this? No. If it had been an error they would have crashed into each other long ago. We do not know why He made this interesting arrangement, but we do know He took pleasure in doing so, and that He has each of them under His control.' "His work is perfect." Deut. 32:4.

Are you letting Him be the Guide and Protector of your present life? Have you made Him your Savior to take care of your eternal life as well?

Blankets Around the World

"[The sun's]... going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof." Psa. 19:6.

What a wonderful thing sunshine is! As the above verse tells us there is no place on earth where it does not reach. A wise Creator God has made the sun's 93-million-mile distance from the earth exactly right to meet life's requirements. No life could exist without it.

The seasons are also part of His divine plan. The earth's axis being tilted 23½ degrees gives us the seasons. As the sun shines more directly over the northern hemisphere, summer is experienced while it is winter in the southern hemisphere. As it slowly tilts the other way the seasons reverse, thus providing winter and summer all over the world.

For human as well as animal and plant life to exist, the earth must be shielded from the fierce heat and deadly ultraviolet radiations of the sun. The Creator did not neglect this. He has (so to speak) wrapped several great blankets, mostly invisible, around the earth for this purpose.

The atmosphere we breathe, called the troposphere, is the blanket of which we are most aware. It contains the oxygen which is required for life. It also contains nitrogen, carbon dioxide, moisture, dust, salt, ash and smoke from volcanoes and smokestacks, etc. In addition to the protective value the troposphere contributes, it is the impurities in this atmosphere that cause beautiful sunsets and sunrises which are a part of the beauties of God's creation.

We do not have enough space here to give detail about all the blankets, but beginning about 10 miles above the earth is a 30-mile-thick area called the stratosphere. In it is a 10-mile layer of ozone gas known as the chemosphere. This is one of the important shields against ultraviolet rays as well as harmful cosmic particles flying through space.

Above the chemosphere lie two other zones called the lower and upper ionospheres. In the upper one most meteors that threaten the earth burn to ash, making a brilliant "shooting star" display. The ionosphere keeps radio waves from drifting off into space and reflects them back to the earth. More important, much radiation from the sun is turned back here.

Finally, the greatest blanket of all, the exosphere, starts about 200 miles above the earth and reaches some 35,000 miles into space. This is the first line of defense against gamma rays and X rays emitted by the sun in such great quantities that life on earth could not exist if its protection were missing.

Most of us rarely ever think about the wonderful way God has provided, such vital protection from the sun's deadly radiations, except perhaps when we have been careless and experienced a painful sunburn. These blankets around the world are part of His care expressed in the Bible, "Thou hast made... the earth, and all things that are therein... and Thou preservest them all." Neh. 9:6.

Have you ever thanked Him for His loving care over you-one small person in this vast universe?

The Beauty of the Snow

"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow." Isa. 1:18.

How lovely the new snowfall looks. Every ugly place now is beautiful, hidden under a fresh, white blanket. The above verse is like a picture of our sins, which keep us from God. It invites everyone to hear how their sins may be made "white as snow." Many Bible verses explain this. One of them is "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." 1 John 1:7. The Lord Jesus Christ gave His life and shed His blood on the cross so that the scarlet stain of sin may now be removed. All who come to Him as repentant sinners, believing that the Lord Jesus has borne God's judgment that would otherwise fall on them, and accepting the Lord Jesus as his or her Savior, can be as "white as snow" before God. Are you among those who have done this?

It is always snowing somewhere, and about one fourth of the world is permanently covered with snow. Glaciers and icebergs all begin as snow which builds up and is pressed into ice by its own weight. Some of these glaciers are more than two miles thick. Snowflakes are transparent ice crystals that have formed high in the sky. Their whiteness results from light reflecting from their many facets. Each flake is a wonderful display of God's delight in making things of beauty. Ninety-six varieties and shapes of snowflakes have been classified, nearly all being hexagonal (six-sided), and no two identical ones have ever been found. What a wonderful Creator the Lord God is!

We think of snow as being very cold, but to many animals and insects it is a warm blanket. Insulated under it and safely hidden from enemies, mice, ground squirrels, porcupines, some birds and other small creatures make snug, warm homes. One, a little coney called the pika, not only has comfortable rooms under the snow connected by tunnels, but also has a runway to a nearby "barn" where, during summer months, it stored a good supply of food. Many insects also keep active with hidden runways taking them to feeding grounds underneath the snow. It is helpful to some larger animals as well. For instance, deer and rabbits benefit as the snow gets deeper, because it helps them to reach foliage and buds of trees that had been too high for them before. Isn't it wonderful how the Lord thinks about these creatures all through the year?

One snowflake (many times lighter than a raindrop) seems so small, but multiplied by millions they provide a storehouse of water in hot summer months-another provision of the Creator for all. On the other hand, too much snow can cause a disaster on some occasions. The habits of every person are like this. At first the habits do not seem like serious matters, but, depending if they are good or bad, repeated over and over they may become a real blessing or things of harm to ourselves and others.

Being aware of this we can pray, "Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path." "Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." Psa. 27:11 and 51:7. The Lord will gladly answer such prayers.

Beware the Tornado!

"The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits." Eccl. 1:6.

Wind (movement of air) is a very necessary part of God's wonderful creation. It is the means of keeping air fresh, moving heat from the tropics, and exchanging it with cooler air from elsewhere. This is a benefit to all God's creatures. Even fierce storms serve a purpose by bringing rain to quench the thirst of dry lands and relief from droughts. But such storms are not something to fly a kite in, but rather a time to go into a secure place until they blow over.

A tornado, sweeping across the sky in a threatening pitch-black funnel, is frightening to see. Where the funnel touches the ground anything in the way is destroyed. Homes and buildings are flattened and automobiles are thrown around like toys. Sometimes big boxcars are lifted right off railroad tracks and carried away. But strange things happen, too. Babies in their cribs have been picked up by such winds and later found, crib and all, safely resting in the fork of a tree, or some other place. Often a tornado will pick up a shed or barn, but skip right over the house next to it. We hope people who have such experiences thank God for His preserving care.

The two places that experience tornados most frequently are the Midwestern United States and Australia, but they occur in other parts of America and the world as well. Sweeping across the ocean, the force of these funnels can lift great amounts of water to form spectacular waterspouts.

A tornado is apparently caused by the collision of great masses of cold and warm air mingling in the sky, forming something like a whirlpool. As this swirling mass of air grows larger and larger, it begins twisting violently about. The visible funnel soon forms, and where this touches ground the severe damage occurs.

These storms are a picture of Satan and his power of destruction in people's lives. The Scriptures tell of instances in Bible days where people threatened by the wind were saved when they cried to the Lord. One instance is in Mark 4 when the Lord saved several boatloads of people from a fierce storm on Lake Galilee; the grateful passengers said, "What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" Mark 4:41.

The Lord still delights to save all who call on Him when Satan attacks. This is referred to in Isa. 25:4: "For Thou hast been a strength... to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm... when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall." Do not try to fight Satan by yourself. That is as useless as trying to stop a tornado by blowing on it. Go to the Lord Jesus with your troubles; ask Him to take your sins away, to shield you from Satan, and you will find Him willing to do so immediately.

All-Important Chlorophyll

"O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! in wisdom host Thou made them all: the earth is full of Thy riches." Psa. 104:24.

To chemists chlorophyll is the remarkable molecule by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. If there were no chlorophyll there would be no plant or animal life. Since the cells in all animal life cannot utilize sunlight directly, it is through the chlorophyll in plants that sunlight is absorbed and its energy stored in their cells.

Briefly, here is what takes place: this marvelous compound, which only God can make, absorbs light energy and uses it to combine molecules of carbon dioxide from the air into a simple sugar called glucose. Glucose is further converted by the plant into other starches and fiber, which are the principal components of green trees, plants and grass. Chlorophyll is the means by which the carbon is separated and passed along to make this food.

Now when this process takes place oxygen is produced which the plant cannot use. The Creator has at this point provided a wonderful exchange between animal and plant life. Chlorophyll enables the trees and other plant growth to get rid of the oxygen by releasing it into the air through leaves and other surfaces. Oxygen, as we know, is exactly what animal and human life requires, so the release of oxygen by plants is essential to maintain the amount we need in the air to breathe.

But that's only half the story. When exhaling, all breathing creatures release carbon dioxide into the air. This completes its cycle when absorbed by growing plants. With the action of chlorophyll the whole process is thus kept in motion, maintaining life all the time. How wise God has been in all His marvelous creation!

Yet chlorophyll, for all its wonders, can only perform when cells are exposed to sunlight. This is evident when a healthy plant is moved into a dark room or basement, soon losing its color and appearing ready to die. But if brought back to a sunporch or bright room, it will once more become green and strong, because chlorophyll can take ever its duties again and revive it.

In many ways this is a picture to us—a reminder that the need of every Christian is to "walk in the light" of God's Word, the Bible. This is the only way we can have joy and happiness, as well as being able to bring others to know the love of God and salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Are you a healthy Christian?

Life From Seeds

"And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself." Gen. 1:11.

A wonder of God's creation is the way in which plants, flowers, grass and trees reproduce themselves. The seeds that are formed sometimes can push the tenderest blade of new life through the hardest soil. No matter how tiny, the seed of a tree has inside it the capability of producing roots, the tree trunk, branches and leaves. It contains cells with enough food to start the new growth until roots and leaves can get along by themselves.

There are seeds that retain life for twenty years or more under extreme desert heat and with God-given "time clocks" do not sprout until the right conditions are present. Often this will be through a heavy cloudburst or a spring flood, which removes the chemical coating of the seed that has preserved it so long. Now, as the coating dissolves the seed splits open, root and shoot are produced, and a new plant begins to grow. One desert plant produces self-planting seeds with spiral tails! The spirals are sensitive to the slightest moisture in the air. They coil and uncoil in such a way that they dig themselves into the dry sandy soil, and when rain finally comes they are self-planted and ready to take root.

It is easy to understand how seeds of various kinds are arranged by planting and cultivating them, but many are scattered far and wide by wind, water, birds, animals and, insects. For instance, one Russian thistle may have 100,000 seeds on it, all of which are carried by the wind to new locations, even across mountains and oceans! Then, too, many seeds float down rivers and across oceans to distant shores and take root there. The coconut is an example of this.

The tasty fruit of trees and bushes, hunted by birds and animals, contains its seed or pit. These creatures may carry the fruit a considerable distance before eating them and discarding the seed or pit, where it often will take root and start a new plant. What a wonderful provision of the Creator to thus use animals and birds to take part in providing a future food supply for their kind in places all over the world!

The Bible speaks of one who sowed seed in a large area—some never took root, others grew awhile and then died, but some fell on good ground and brought forth much fruit. In Matthew chapter 13 the Lord Himself explained about this, likening the seed to the Word of God sown throughout the world. Some people paid no attention to it and it did not take root with them. Others enjoyed it for a little while, but did not really accept it in their hearts, so there was no new life there either. But the happy ones were those who received and believed the Word and received a new eternal life, which is through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Which one of these are you?

Big Trees From Little Seeds

"But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth... [God's] word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit." Matt. 13:23.

The size of the seed from which a tree grows has no relationship to the size of a tree. Douglas firs in Oregon and Washington may grow 200 feet or higher and eight to twelve feet in diameter. Yet like the redwoods and sequoias in California, they start from a very small seed. The largest of all trees, a sequoia known as General Sherman, started almost 4000 years ago from a seed so tiny (1/16 of an inch long) it takes 3000 of them to weigh an ounce! Although lightning knocked about 100 feet off its top, it is still 275 feet tall and more than 30 feet across at the base perhaps twice the width of the living room in your home.

Other parts of the country have big trees, too. For instance, the 400-year-old, champion white oak near Chesapeake Bay in Maryland spreads its branches 158 feet across. Like all oaks it began as a little acorn, perhaps buried by a squirrel and forgotten.

A tree seed, like all other seeds, is a storehouse of all the parts that will grow from it. Nothing can change it to anything else. As it germinates, new cells form the parts of the plant that will develop from it. These cells take over their individual work as if told what to do, which is exactly the case as God the Creator has arranged the work of each. Some form bark, some wood tissue, some branches; others produce leaves, fruit or more seeds and some form roots. This process continues until a full-grown tree will contain billions of cells, each faithfully doing its duty. Evolution could never bring such a wonderful thing into being. It is the Creator's creative design.

Where sliding soil causes a young tree to tip outward, a special message is given to certain cells to make an "elbow" so it will grow straight up again. When this happens the trunk stops growing on the inside while the outer part keeps growing until the straightening is completed and then they work together again. The next time you see a tree this shape think how wonderfully God arranged this growth correction. Actually the trunk becomes stronger at this point than the rest of the tree, just as a boy or girl who admits his or her mistakes to the Lord Jesus and asks His help to correct them becomes a stronger person. The Psalmist said, "I will confess my transgressions [sins] unto the Lord; and Thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." Psa. 32:5.

The Bible also speaks of those who love the Lord in this way: "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river." Jer. 17:7,8. If your trust is in the Lord Jesus, then this is His description of you, too.

Persistent Sagebrush

"The Lord's portion is His people....He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; He led him about, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye." Deut. 32:9,10.

This verse speaks of the Lord's kindness to His people Israel as they went through the wilderness-the same kindness that He shows toward His people today. Not many of us actually live in a wilderness (although this evil world is like a desert to those whose true home is in heaven), but some have been through deserts in the western United States. Seeing the desert we might ask, "Can anything good be said about sagebrush?"

Travelers through the western parts of North America and Mexico are often amazed at the seemingly endless miles of land covered by this desert plant. In dry soil where nothing else will grow, under hot summer sun and cold winter snow, these plants are often the only living things to be seen. Many people think they are ugly and worthless.

But we should not be too quick to find fault with this small gray-green shrub which covers millions of acres. It is part of God's creation and not as useless as we might think. For one thing, it provides a home for a great number of animals, birds and insects. Many of these, such as the beautiful pronghorn antelope and some other species of deer, eat sagebrush as their main food source. Many other living things are under the cover of the sagebrush and are hidden. If we would sit quietly and watch closely, we would soon discover that it is home to jackrabbits and smaller animals, such as the kangaroo rat, gophers and many kinds of mice. Coyotes live in many parts of the country where sagebrush grows, catching the rodents that make their homes in this miniature forest. We might see a fox once in a while, too.

Many birds also make their home here. Sagebrush supplies both food and shelter for grouse, pretty pheasants and many small birds, which add to the charm of the desert with their songs. Snakes and lizards also live here along with many kinds of insects, both above and below ground. Late in summer this plant's pleasant-smelling, yellow blossoms attract bees, and the honey produced by them has an excellent flavor. Farmers who understand sagebrush know that where it grows big and tall the soil is good, and that there is moisture in the ground, making the location a good place to raise crops.

All things considered, this plant, though disliked by many, is actually another gift of the Creator and is needed for the lives of many of His creatures. As the Bible verse reminds us: "The Lord by wisdom bath founded the earth." Prov. 3:19. It is only through His wisdom and care that the needs of all living things are provided for.

We ourselves really have no wisdom unless it is given to us by God. Moses, who thought about this and knew a great deal about the foolishness of mankind, exclaimed, "O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!" Deut. 32:29. Have you made sure of your "latter end" (eternity), by accepting the Lord Jesus as your Savior?

Mangroves - Unloved but Useful

"And Abraham planted a grove in Beer-sheba, and called there on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God." Gen. 21:33.

We are not told what kind of trees were in Abraham's grove, but how encouraging to learn of his honoring God by planting trees. However, it is certain these trees were not mangroves, which would not grow in Israel. Mangroves require the salty, sandy shore waters of the Florida Everglades or similar places throughout the southern oceans of the world to thrive-and thrive they do, in spite of efforts to get rid of them.

Mangroves, once having taken root, anchor themselves in mud and rotting vegetation with the upper parts of their roots arching up and spreading out in a great mat. These are so tightly pressed together that only small animals, birds, crabs, snakes and insects can penetrate them. The trunk and foliage is lifted some 50 to 75 feet high off the ground by these matted and tangled roots. These arching roots continue to grow from the base of the tree as it grows.

Salt water will kill almost any other kind of tree. They are helped in part by growing where fresh water from rain and streams dilutes the salt. In addition, these trees are provided with filtering systems that remove much of the salt drawn up from the water, and 1/hey grow rapidly on what comes through the filters.

Of what use is a forest of this kind? Among other things it provides living quarters for innumerable creatures. Certain crabs find this a safe home site. Lobsters and many shellfish welcome the opportunity to hide in the mass of roots. Leaves, dropping and decaying, provide rich food for many sea residents, including fish, bivalves and a great variety of worms, sea slugs and insects.

Birds, such as herons, spoonbills, egrets and other water-waders, find an abundance of food here. Shrimp, migrating many miles to such protected spots, grow fat and healthy before returning to deep water. Crocodiles and water snakes frequent such places, too. As the groves spread, ponds are formed within them, providing welcome resting places for migrating birds.

Mangroves growing in great numbers also protect adjoining land from storms and hurricanes. As they spread, the land gradually builds up behind them, in contrast to many places where storms eat into the land, washing sand and soil away.

The more God's wonderful creation is studied the more we see that everything has its proper place in His plan. The Bible refers to a tree to tell us a wonderful thing: "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river." Jer. 17:7,8. Can this be said of you?

The Plant With Honey Jars

The beautiful in poinsettia grows tall and bushy m some southern climates. In warm weather it is covered with green leaves, but these turn yellow and fall off when the weather becomes cold. Meanwhile, beautiful crimson-colored "bracts" have been growing on the stems, which are not affected by the cold (unless there is a real freeze). These make the plant lovely and attractive. They look like flowers, but are actually part of the leaf system. In northern climates, small poinsettia plants are often grown in greenhouses, and are familiar to most of us as they are potted and marketed during the winter holidays.

Each stem of this plant contains a green ball, forming part of the "bract." This holds the actual flowers, which themselves are not very pretty. Inside some of these flowers is the seed-bearing pistil. In others, pollen-bearing staminates appear. They just stand erect and are bare, without petals, such as ordinary flowers display. But they are equipped with something ordinary flowers do not have. On the side of each green ball a yellow, funnel-shaped "honey jar" grows, gradually filling with a sweet nectar.

When the female flower, containing the pistil, but no stamen, becomes mature, it grows six little arms at one end. When these appear it is as if it were saying: "I am ready for the pollen necessary to produce seeds." The problem is that it cannot produce the pollen itself. This must come from one of the pollen-producing flowers.

Now we see the purpose of the "bracts," with their bright red leaves and honey jars attached. Bees, butterflies and other insects are attracted to these bright colors and sweet smells. They go into the various flowers to get the delicious honey. When they enter the ones with stamens, they become covered with pollen. As they move from flower to flower, they brush against the pistil of the female flower. This is called pollination. From this pistil another crop of seeds, new plants and flowers will be produced.

Besides getting honey, some of the insects enter the flower for another reason. They lay eggs inside the poinsettia, and the plant is used as a source of food when the little ones hatch.

We see again that God has neglected none of His creation. Whether animal, fish, plant or any other object, He is always watching over them. Here is one of the many instances where He has arranged for two entirely different species to help one another. The insects get their food from the honey jars, and the plants are pollinated so that their species can continue.

"The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honorable and glorious: and His righteousness endureth forever. He hath made His wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion " Psa. 111:2-4.

Hidden Beauty Spots - Northern Lights

"O Lord our Lord, how excellent is Thy name in all the earth! Who hast set Thy glory above the heavens." Psa. 8:1.

Not many people travel to the deep northern parts of Canada, Greenland and the Yukon where forests suddenly end and tundra and ice begin. This area is cold and uninviting to all except the most adventuresome. Still, it is part of our world and God's wonderful creation. To us it is a strange and mysterious region, but to Him it is a place of purpose for some life forms that are always under His watchful care.

Trees in this forest border are mostly small and weather-beaten, some barely rising above ground level, but they provide homes for hardy birds, animals and insects. Birds such as blue jays, grouse, owls, ptarmigan and others thrive on the insects, as well as the berries and seeds in the tundra. Here, too, can be found squirrels, martens and foxes. Other animals such as moose, caribou and musk-oxen prefer open tundra where there is good grazing, but they return to the shelter of the trees in winter.

Tundra in most places is covered with brush and grass, but just a few feet down, the ground is frozen hard, so is unsuitable for big trees. To the eye, this tundra appears as endless as the ocean—a lonely and rather frightening place. Its black, sticky soil, however, supports dense growths of low shrubs, moss, lichens and many kinds of berry bushes.

In late summer this great expanse exhibits beautiful colors. Blueberries, billberries and others, together with the leaves of their bushes, change to red, purple, blue and other colors, and the entire landscape is changed into a thing of beauty. At the same time, the birch, willow and aspen trees at the tundra's edge add lovely yellows, reds and browns. Over it all at nighttime an added spectacle sweeps the sky—the amazing Northern Lights shimmering across the whole expanse, piercing the darkness with striking forms and colors.

But, with the exception of a few adventurers and some native Indians, only birds and animals see this beautiful part of God's creation. However, when we remember that the Bible says of the Creator, "for Thy pleasure they are and were created" (Rev. 4:11), we see that this beauty is not wasted. The One who has included it in His creation has great pleasure in looking on it.

Don't you wish you could see all this? We may never see anything like it on earth. But for those who love the Lord Jesus Christ and know Him as their Savior, there is a promise that we will see and be part of the glories of heaven itself, which surpass the grandest of all earthly beauty. Will you be included with those who will enjoy that for all eternity in the presence of the Savior who gave His life for all who trust in Him?

Water and the Balance of Nature

"For as the rain cometh down, and the snow... and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth. " Isa. 55:10,11.

People often speak about "the balance of nature." Actually it is the Creator of the world who has put all things in balance and holds them there—although thoughtless men often intrude to spoil nature's beauty and pattern. Lakes and seas, forests, mountains and vegetation, together with living creatures, from the smallest microbe to the largest elephant and whale, all depend on one another. But water is most important of all. That is the "balance" referred to and it only exists because God made it so.

The earth is the only known planet supplied with an abundance of water. In this way God shows His special interest in our world, because in it are the boys and girls, men and women, to whom He has shown His love in providing a Savior and the everlasting joy of heaven to all who accept Him as their Savior.

The water cycle in nature begins in lakes and oceans. There water evaporates into the atmosphere. The sun at its hottest can evaporate more than five thousand tons of water from just one square mile of ocean in just an hour's time! Winds carry this moisture-laden atmosphere to the many parts of the world, bringing welcome rain to take care of the needs of all.

In addition to the benefits of direct rainfall, water formed into snow and ice displays the Creator's wisdom in storing it on hills and mountains in the wintertime. Then when the summer sun melts it, cool, refreshing water flows down to meet the moisture needs of His creatures during those seasons of the year when there is no rain.

Great quantities of water are used to put out fires. But the interesting fact about water is that it is composed of two parts, each of which by itself burns fiercely or supports combustion. These are hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen burns very easily and oxygen is essential for anything to burn. Yet put together in the form of water as the Creator has done, they make an excellent fire extinguisher. Isn't that amazing!

Water is certainly a great miracle, necessary for the life of every animal, bird, insect and, of course, all marine life. Plants, grasses and trees would not survive without it, nor could human beings.

Considering its importance we can easily see why the Lord used it as an illustration when speaking of Himself, saying "whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." John 4:14. By this He meant that those who accept Him as their Savior and Lord will have the "thirst" of their hearts quenched for evermore. Has your "thirst" been quenched?

Beautiful Autumn Leaves

"Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the Lord." 1 Chron. 16:33.

These words were spoken by King David as he encouraged God's people to praise the Lord for all His wonderful works. It seems so fitting that he used trees as an example, for they are an important part of God's creation and in their beauty seem to "sing out" to their Creator.

Beautiful autumn leaves plainly show this.

Although many trees keep their leaves or needles year-round, there are many species in areas north and south of the Canadian border which drop their leaves in the fall. But before they fall there is usually a brilliant and varied display of color in these leaves. Red and sugar maples, along with oaks, blaze up with fiery red, orange and gold; dogwoods turn a shade of purple; sassafras take on scarlet and orange; poplars and aspens become golden yellow, and many others with them make the forests almost appear to be on fire.

Leaves are to a tree what lungs are to a man, controlling the passage of air and moisture to the tree. The chlorophyll in the leaves is like blood to humans, converting the water and air into living tissue. Sunlight provides the energy for this process.

Under the guidance of the Creator, every leaf is a miniature chemical factory, performing simply and efficiently in supplying sugar and oxygen as part of the tree's food (the rest comes from the roots). Leaves continually give off moisture which, together with its shade, provide coolness on a hot day. The leaf's chemical activity absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and in exchange exhales oxygen, so vital to air-breathing animals, birds, insects and man. Without the forests and other plants of the world, there would not be sufficient oxygen to sustain all this life.

As fall approaches a small ring of tissue begins to dry up where the leaf stem is attached to the tree. It is at this point, called the abscission layer, where the leaf will separate from the tree. Bit by bit this layer interferes with the leaf's processes, and soon the green color fades away as its chlorophyll is cut off. Then the spectacular colors appear-red,) orange, pink, gold, yellow, etc. These colors have been in the leaf all along, but the green chlorophyll has kept them from being seen. Finally the leaves are forced off by wind and rain, and a corky seal closes off the base of the stem. A large maple tree will drop about a million leaves which, returning to the soil, enrich it for use by the roots.

What a treat it is to be present when this wonderful change takes place in these trees. The Bible tells us "The Lord hath made all things for Himself" (Prov. 16:4), and, He surely has great pleasure in seeing this lovely display. However, this beauty is only temporary, but we are assured "The glory of the-Lord shall endure forever." Psa. 104:31. All who know Him as their Savior will be in the presence of His glory and beauty for all eternity. Will you be there?

The Sun Is Going Down - Is It Really Sunset?

"By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth." Psa. 33:6.

We speak of the sun rising and setting, but is this really correct? It wasn't so far back in history when people thought the world was flat, and they were afraid to go in boats on the ocean for fear they would fall off the edge! Many considered the earth to be the center of the universe and that all the stars, including the sun, traveled around it.

Now we know that the earth is round, and by its revolving every 24 hours the sun comes into view in the morning and disappears at night. So actually, it isn't sunrise and sunset after all, but what we might call "earthrise" and "earth set." We also now know the earth is not the center of everything, but just a speck in God's universe.

Perhaps you have thought that the stars only "come out" at night. Actually they are there day and night and don't "come out" at all. Of course, we only see them at night when the brightness of the sun and city lights are gone and when there are no clouds to block the view.

When looking into a starry sky, you might think that they are very close together. Yet, astronomers know that most of them are trillions of miles apart. No one but the Creator knows the actual number of stars, but it is estimated there are more than 100 billion, billion (100, 000,000,000,000,000,000) of them! Man's mind cannot begin to understand such numbers, but the Bible tells us "He [the Lord] telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names." Psa. 147:4. Among the untold billions our earth is very small. By comparison, the diameter of the sun is 100 times greater than the earth, and yet one of the really great stars, Antares, is 330 times greater than the sun! It is so huge that, if it were hollow, most of our solar system (the sun and the planets and their moons which orbit around them) could orbit inside of it! The sun is the nearest star to us-93 million miles away. The next nearest is Proxima Centauri, 25 trillion miles away, and if you could travel 1000 miles per second it would take 790 years to reach it.

Yet, in spite of our smallness in God's vast creation, it was on this world that we call Earth, and in no other place, that He placed man and other forms of life to accompany him. And it was to this world, when men rebelled against their Creator, that God sent His beloved Son to die on Calvary's cross. There He was punished for the sins of those who would accept Him as their Savior. Now, because of what He has done, those who know Him as their Savior have forgiveness of their sins and the wonderful gift of everlasting life in the glories of heaven.

The Bible asks a very serious question: "Despisest thou the riches of His goodness... and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?" Rom. 2:4. For you to be saved, you must accept His simple and wonderful way of salvation this very day with "repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." Acts 20:21.

Mankind - a Special Creation: Chapter 2

"So God created man.... in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion over.... every living thing that moveth upon the earth."

Gen. 1:27-28

You Are Something Special

"Sing forth the honor of His name; make His praise glorious." Psa. 66:2.

We learn in the first chapter of the Bible that the Lord God didn't make all living things at the same time, but that a six-day period was involved. First, light and darkness were divided into day and night. On the second day, dry land and oceans were separated and the atmosphere prepared for living things to follow.

It was on the third day that grass, trees, flowers and vegetation appeared. How beautiful it must have been! With the appearance of the sun, moon and stars on the fourth day, all was ready for a great variety of living things and on day five the birds, fish, whales and all water creatures were brought forth.

Then on the sixth, the great variety of animals and miscellaneous creatures were created. Man was given the last place on this final day. Was this because the Creator thought more highly of the others? No, actually man was given the highest place of all—which is one reason you are "something special." Adam and all after him were made God's representatives on earth and put over every other living thing. Because of his importance before God, all else had been arranged to be ready for his use, comfort and enjoyment.

Man, because of this high position, was responsible to give honor to his Creator. But when Adam sinned, it spoiled that honor and ever since then mankind in general has been more and more dishonoring to God. Yet, in His love and patience, He makes it possible for all who own Him as God and His Son as their Savior, to even now bring to Him a testimony of honor. Are you doing this?

You are "something special" in other ways, as well. Of all earth's creatures, man alone has been given an everlasting existence. How important it is to make sure that you will live in heaven's glory! An often-quoted Bible verse says, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish [in hell], but have everlasting life [in heaven]." John 3:16. Have you made Him your Savior?

Then, too, every part of your body is a display of His special creation, including your brain, eyes, ears, heart and lungs. Your arms, hands and fingers, as well, and legs, with knees, feet and toes performing faithfully. These and much more, including the inner parts of your body, all speak of the special provisions the Creator implanted in you.

Thinking on these things, we can see that each of us is a very special creature in God's sight and in His love and care. Can you say with the Psalmist, "Praise ye the Lord.... Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness." Psa. 150:1,2.

How Much Are You Worth? - Human Chromosomes

"Fear not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows." Matt. 10:31.

Not many years ago it was thought that the human body, reduced to salable items, would be worth only about a dollar. But as scientists learned more about the body's valuable chemicals and minerals they have revised the figure to $150,000! Of course, this is just playing with figures, for it would be impossible to take these materials out of your body and sell them. Actually, the wonderful way the Creator has formed our bodies makes them priceless.

No one could ever construct anything like a living body with its wonderful parts all working together. For instance, scientists often speak of genes. These are molecules in the cell that determine, even before you are born, what kind of person you will be and that make you in many ways similar to your father and mother.

The human body is made up of some 30 trillion cells, and each cell contains 46 chromosomes, and every chromosome has hundreds of these tiny genes. Do you think these parts, so necessary for life, just happened to come about or perhaps took millions of years to develop? No-it would be impossible! Adam's body was given all these important parts when the Lord God created him, and they have been passed on to all people ever since.

Scientific language uses code names such as DNA, GRF, CRF. TRT, etc. These are abbreviation: for terms describing how the various genes can determine whether a baby will develop into a person being moody or cheerful, quiet or lively, big or little, or having a certain color to his or her skin, eyes and hair.

All animals also have cells, chromosomes and genes, although they are not the same as man's. The most important difference is that it was only of man that the Bible says, "And the Lord God... breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Gen. 2:7. The soul is part of our earthly life, but it will go on forever in either heaven or hell. God has lovingly invited us to make heaven our eternal home. It can be ours through faith in the atoning work of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, when He died on Calvary's cross to pay for the sins of all who will trust in Him.

His promise about everlasting life includes the body as well as the soul. This assures us that when the Lord Jesus comes to take those of us who love Him to heaven, He will give each one a new body "fashioned like unto His glorious body." Phil. 3:21.

Will you be included to receive such a wonderful change and live forever with the Savior in heaven? Or will your soul live forever in hell?

Under Your Skin

"The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life." Job 33:4.

The human body—all 30 trillion cells of it—is an amazing display of God's creative power and wisdom, and the human brain is the outstanding feature that sets us above other creatures. Animals act out their interesting lives principally by God-given instincts. Only in a limited way can they learn tricks taught them by trainers and are never capable of passing these on to others of their kind. But man, "made in the image of God," is easily able not only to learn and imitate, but to use his intellect to bring variety into his life, make changes in it, contribute to the welfare of others, and to consider the worth of all that comes to his attention.

This superiority is possible because of the remarkable capacity of the brain, with its complex parts and 200 million tiny nerve fibers that control every part of his body. It is the brain with its invisible mind that lets us enjoy quiet thoughts, a lovely melody or a beautiful scene. It allows us to invent and produce things of great variety, including today's complicated computers, laser beams, etc. But most importantly our minds, by our inner spirits, are made to realize there is a life after this one, and that we need to prepare for it through faith in the Lord Jesus, according to the Bible message that God has given us.

Let's consider another wonderful part of the body. Think of your eyes as two cameras, far superior to any ever made in a factory, that automatically focus for distance and motion and open or close just the right amount according to available light. The lenses of the eyes do this, adjusting to some 10,000 variations, depending on brightness or darkness surrounding the object being looked at. All the "pictures" taken by it are stored away in the brain for future reference. For instance, your thoughts may be on the first school you attended. Sure enough, a picture of it comes into your mind, clear as can be. Then when you turn to something else, the picture returns to its memory file until, perhaps many years later, you want to look at it again, and it will come forth just as fresh as ever!

If we weren't limited in space, it would be interesting to explore the wonders of, our hearts, lungs, ears, mouths, tongues, digestive systems and our all-important life-sustaining blood. (Some details of these-are on following pages, and others have already appeared in Volume 1.)

As we think on these things we cannot help but share the Psalmist's thoughts of God's creation of man expressed in Psa. 139:14, "I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well."

Your Amazing Brain

"Thus saith the Lord... I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them." Ezek. 11:5.

Your brain is a three-pound bundle of gray and white matter, so wonderfully made that only God Knows how it works. Medical men and scientists try to understand it, but will never be able to know all about it, for it is God's special creation. People marvel at the things computers can do, but all the computers in the world put together could not match the things your brain can do.

Men have learned many things about the brain's construction. They know its 30 billion nerve cells are all interconnected; they know that almost every act of your body takes place only after it's been instructed by the brain; they know that what your ears hear and eyes see are sent to your brain to make sense; they know that your brain lets the taste buds in your tongue tell you if what you're eating is sweet, sour or bitter. They also know that our brain, when necessary, sends messages to your heart or lungs to work faster or slower, and innumerable other actions. Yes, researchers may learn much about the cells and nerves of your brain, but they cannot explain how each of them has its individual part in forming the way of your life.

It is these processes, among other things, that set human beings apart from animals. When God made man's body He made his brain distinct and superior to all other creation. Nothing else but God could produce language, music, technical skills, etc. Did you ever see a cow enjoy a beautiful view; a horse study a sunset; or a sheep consider the beauty of a flower? Did a monkey ever invent a piece of machinery, or a hog compose a lovely melody? Of course not! Such things are true only of mankind, whom God has made in His own image.

Scientists are just beginning to understand' the workings of your brain. They have determined which part controls thought, memory and function. But they cannot explain how just hearing a certain tune will remind you of something that took place years ago; or how the odor of a flower will perhaps instantly remind you of a long-past picnic in the woods.

In other words, although we can see the brain we cannot see the mind. Like our verse says, only God sees the mind, because it is one of the invisible wonders of His creation. It is through the mind (sometimes referred to in the Bible as the heart) that we see that we are sinners, responsible to God and needing to have those sins forgiven. It is through the same mind that, when we read the Bible, we understand what we read. With it we understand that the Lord Jesus died for our sins and that He will forgive and cleanse us if we accept Him as our Savior. "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." Rom. 10:10. Have you done this?

What Your Nose Knows

"In whose [God 's] hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind." Job 12:10.

Many think of the nose merely as a means of breathing and smelling, or as a nuisance at times. But it is much more than that. As one of the world's best air-conditioners, it was an extremely important provision of God when He created man.

What is it that my nose knows? Among other things, it knows how to filter air, how to tell the difference between good and bad food, how to add moisture to dry air, how to make cold air warm, how to bring back memories, and how to make your voice sound good or bad. It knows many more things, too, that we do not have room to write down.

First, your nose filters all the air you breathe, doing this in two ways—by hairs in the nostrils catching impurities, and by sticky mucus secreted from tiny sinus tubes above it. The mucus, controlled by tiny "brooms" that sweep it into position, keeps the impurities from entering your lungs.

How does it know good food and bad food? By sensitive little bulbs that pick up the slightest odor. When something smells spoiled or sour, your nose sends a message to the brain which immediately tells you not to eat it. This is another safeguard the Creator has provided.

Why should moisture be added to dry air? Because your lungs and throat require controlled amounts of it. This, too, is supplied by the nose with just the right amount added to each breath. By the same token, cold air is also harmful to your tissues, and the Creator has placed automatic "warming ovens" at the top of each nostril. These are flat pieces of bone about the size of a postage stamp which warm the cold air before it is passed on.

What does your nose have to do with memories? The pleasant odors it detects often make us think of an event that took place long ago, just as an unpleasant smell will bring a not-so-welcome memory.

Finally, your nose has much to do with your voice, for as you speak, much of the tone passes through it. We become aware of this when the nose is stopped up with a cold and our speech and singing sound strange to others, as well as to ourselves.

The nose was given an important part when the Lord God formed man and "breathed into his nostrils the breath of life." Gen. 2:7. This was not done to any other creature, and it is another example of God's special interest in us. He provided us a life not only for this world, but for eternity, and has assured us that our eternity will be in heaven if we accept His Son, the Lord Jesus, as our Savior. But the Bible faithfully tells us to do this right now, saying, "Behold, now is the accepted time, behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Cor. 6:2. If you have not yet done this, do it right now! Tomorrow may be too late.

Sweating Is Good for You

"I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works.... How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!" Psa. 139:14,17.

Sweating is something we don't think much about unless to complain as it drips from our foreheads or soils a shirt or blouse. But we should be thankful for it as it is one of the marvels of the human body, designed by the Creator to add to the comfort and enjoyment of life.

Humans have a greater capacity to sweat than most other mammals. Elephants, for instance, can only hunt for shade, waggle their big ears like fans, or spray water over their bodies to keep cool. Hippos stay under water when it is hot, and even lions and tigers stay in the shade or jump into the water when too warm. Dogs that seem to be smiling are really cooling off by opening their mouths and letting their wet tongues hang out for relief.

The human body has about two million sweat glands, called pores, like tiny tubes coming from the lower part of the skin to the outside.

You may ask, "What's the purpose of this sweat system?" Actually it is God's kind thought in giving human beings a healthy and quick way to cool off in hot weather after playing or working hard or when excited by emotions. Sweating brings relief, and when the emotions are past, the skin returns to normal where at all times, awake or asleep, various parts of the body are sweating, usually so lightly that we are not aware of it.

Perspiration helps keep us cool by its evaporation, just as many air-conditioners do. Have you noticed a nice cool feeling while you're dripping wet after a swim, but when dried off you get warm again? That's just what sweating does for you. Being 99% water, it covers you with moisture that does the same thing, and largely because of its action, your body temperature of 98.6° (except when sick) is always the same, summer or winter. In addition to the cooling benefit of the moisture in sweat, some of the undesirable chemicals that get into our bodies from improper food or drinks and smoke and dust in the air we breathe, are removed by sweating and deposited on the outside where they can do no more harm.

The more we consider the bodies the Creator has given us, the more we are amazed at the wonders of every part of them and how they have been designed by His supreme wisdom. The praise and expressions of David in the 139th Psalm quoted above, and his recognition of the One who created him, are exactly the thoughts that each of us should have.

Have you ever praised and thanked the One who made and preserves you?

"Thorns also and thistles shall it [the ground] bring forth to thee... In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread." Gen. 3:18,19.

When Adam sinned and the Lord told him, "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread," he soon learned what that meant. Before disobeying God he had no cares or work, just the pleasure of walking through the garden God had provided, occasionally perhaps trimming a branch or picking the fruit.

Now that was changed. Thorns and thistles would grow, and the soil would not so easily give its nourishment, which meant hard work was going to be required, and his labor would produce the sweat of which the Lord God spoke. But, while this must have been hard for Adam to accept, it was actually one proof of God's love for him that, in spite of the sin he and Eve had committed, he would enjoy the benefit of the very sweat that would always remind him of his sinful nature.

How does the body know when to send sweat to the skin? The Creator has made a most amazing provision that could never "just happen to come about" or take millions of years to develop, as some foolishly claim. A part of the body called the hypothalamus is what starts, stops and regulates it. This complicated organ, about the size of your thumb and located under the center of your brain, performs much like the control tower at an airport where pilots of airplanes are told when to come in, when to leave, which runway to use, and other instructions to insure their safety. Similarly the hypothalamus, among many other things, tells you when to eat, when to drink, when to put on or take off an overcoat, when to sleep, and when to wake up. These instructions, as well as the control of perspiration, are all functions of the hypothalamus.

It is there that the first step in sweating takes place as this little part of the brain sends a message to thousands of sweat glands to open up and pour out moisture. How does it know when to do this? Only the Creator who devised it knows exactly how it works, but its work is truly marvelous. Under hot conditions the sweat cools your skin and, controlled the same way, on a cold day it orders the same sweat glands to shut down and hold back the moisture so you can warm up. Isn't this remarkable?

This wonderful provision of love for Adam and for all of us reminds us that although God hates sin, He does love sinners and offers the very best gift of all, in spite of our sinful nature. His Word, the Bible, tells us, "But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:8), and that "whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life " (John 3:16).

Have you accepted this gift and believed on Him as your Savior?

"And being in an agony He [Jesus] prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground." Luke 22:44.

Sweat, 99% water, also contains sodium chloride (salt) and other elements. Under normal conditions your body loses about a quart of water a day through perspiring, but someone who is playing hard can sweat as much as two quarts in an hour. That's why it is wise to drink lots of water to replace it.

Sometimes it is asked, "How come perspiration smells so bad?" Perhaps the Creator allows this as a reminder that sweat was not present until sin came into the world through Adam and that we are all sinners. But it is not always accompanied by bad odor. We sweat all the time when we are in good health, although we may not be aware of it. The occasional bad odor comes from bacteria acting on tiny bits of the impurities brought out with the sweat in places where moisture does not promptly evaporate—such as the armpits or feet. But when such spots are kept clean the odor usually is not so noticeable.

As mentioned earlier, one of the penalties placed on Adam because of his disobedience was that the labor that was necessary to maintain life would produce sweat—an ever-present reminder that he had sinned against his Creator.

Approximately 4000 years later, on the very night when the Lord Jesus was about to go to Calvary's cross, we read that He went to the Garden of Gethsemane with some of His disciples. Withdrawing a short way from them, He engaged in prayer to His Father, saying, "O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." He then returned to the disciples, found them asleep, left them and once more prayed in the same manner, agonizing at the thought of the load of sin He was to bear. Once more He joined the still-sleeping disciples and then drew apart for a third prayer to His Father. It was on this third occasion that we read (as quoted above) that the agony of the thought of taking the sins of mankind on Himself caused Him to "sweat as it were great drops of blood."

The very sins of the world, which had begun with Adam and caused him to sweat ordinary perspiration, were now as a terrible load to be borne by the loving Savior who had never sinned. And in the terrible agony at the thought of bearing the sins of others, His sweat, unlike that of Adam, was mingled with great drops of blood!

He could have refused to go to Calvary and relieved Himself of that great burden, but instead He endured it, saying, "The cup which My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it?" John 18:11. In this way His death provides salvation for every sinner who will trust in Him as Savior. Have you trusted Him?

Our Remarkable Kidneys

"But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him." 1 Cor. 12:18.

Most of us have two kidneys. They are reddish-brown and are shaped like huge kidney beans. Kidneys are the most important waste-disposal part of the body. Through them our blood is continuously filtered to remove wastes and to help keep the chemical content of the blood in balance.

The Creator wisely gave us two of these important organs so that if one is severely damaged the other can carry on. Surely "His ways [are] past finding out." Rom. 11:33. Life could go on even if the one remaining kidney were also partially damaged, especially if the person's diet were carefully watched. But the normal, healthy kidneys are wonderful safeguards to our health, helping, among other things, to control our weight and blood pressure. Also, if we unwisely take in too much salt or sugar, the kidneys will get rid of the excess. However, there is a limit to this, and a wise person will avoid eating too much of these items.

The function of the kidneys is very complicated. Each kidney acts separately, extracting waste products from the blood. The major blood vessel that leads to the kidney is the renal artery. It comes from the liver, and the blood that travels in it contains urea. This substance is derived from proteins in our food. Digestion breaks down the protein substances in food, and that which is not utilized by the body is carried by the blood stream to the liver where it is changed into urea.

Now that the urea has reached the kidneys a remarkable extraction process takes place in a coiled tube called a nephron. Each of us has about a million nephrons which if stretched end to end in a line would be about 70 miles long.

As the blood enters the kidney it goes into small blood vessels called capillaries where it is filtered. A portion of the plasma (fluid part of the blood) enters the nephrons. The nephrons are able to separate out the good things (salts, sugars, amino acids, water) and return them to the blood. This process goes on continuously, and the nephrons are kept active returning the good substances back into the blood and rejecting the waste substances. This waste material is called urine. This passes out of the nephrons into collecting tubes called ureters and then to the bladder and is discharged from time to time.

This complicated but amazingly efficient system could never have happened by chance, nor could the most brilliant scientist begin to duplicate it. God alone could create and take care of this and every other part of our body as well. How wondrous His ways are! When we think of the wisdom that designed such an intricate body we should want to exclaim like the Psalmist did, "I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." Psa. 139:14.

The Spine an Engineering Marvel

"And God said, Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness: and let them have dominion over... all the earth." Gen. 1:26.

"In Our image" and "after Our likeness" does not mean man looks like God, but he is the representative of God on earth. He has an everlasting soul and intellect and authority over all earthly creation. Man, in this honored place, is set apart from all else by his upright body-something no other earthly creature ever had or will have.

It is the spine (backbone) that gives man this character. It is a remarkable column of vertebrae which provides a flexible and strong support for the body. If it were one solid bone a person would be as rigid as a toy soldier. That is why God provided 36 separate vertebrae, reaching from the base of the skull to the hips. The spine is also formed in curves to act as a shock absorber and provide maximum strength. Cervical vertebrae support the head; thoracic (chest) vertebrae have the 12 pairs of ribs hooked to them; and the lumbar vertebrae near the bottom of the spine carry most of the load.

The vertebrae are held together by discs (or pads) which look something like washers on a garden hose. The top and bottom surfaces of these are cemented to the bones above and below them. Their centers are filled with jelly-like material, allowing the spine to move this way or that and yet retain proper form. The edges of the disc are made of tough layers of strong, elastic gristle to keep the "jelly" from leaking out.

The whole column of the spine is hollow, to accommodate a one-half-inch thick spinal cord running through it. This cord connects 31 pairs of nerves from the brain to various parts of the body, carrying nerve impulses (messages) back and forth. Many things that go on in our bodies between our necks and the soles of our feet are controlled by the brain through the nerves coming down the spinal column. The skull, at the top of the spine, has an opening for the spinal cord and is so placed that it does not interfere with man's erect posture. Now this is different in an ape, whose cord passes through an opening that forces its head forward and overbalances him. Because of this, it cannot stand erect (except very briefly) and must go on all fours or use its arms for support. This is another evidence that men and apes are not related-regardless of what some teach.

The Bible tells us, "But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased Him." 1 Cor. 12:18. The design and actions of every part of the body are marvelous to consider. How wisely the Creator arranged all parts to have their individual functions, yet to be dependent on one another. The backbone is just one example of this display.

No wonder David could exclaim, "I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works." Psa. 139:14. And as he thought on this he added, "How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!" Psa. 139:17. Have you also praised and thanked Him for His thoughts toward you?

About Human Hair

"But the very hairs of your head are all numbered." Matt. 10:30.

This verse reminds us that God knows not only our hearts and thoughts, but everything else about us as well. How many hairs do you think you have? You probably have about 100,000 although each of us does not have the same number. Blond people usually have more, and redheads have less.

If you could look at a strand of hair under a strong microscope, it would look like a tightly packed tiny rope covered with fish-like scales. A cross section of the hair would show two layers surrounding a central core. The outside layer is called the cuticle. The second layer, making up 85% of the thickness, is called the cortex and is made up of the cells that provide color and sheen. The inner core is called the medulla. The whole hair structure that we see is called the shaft.

This shaft starts to grow in a bulb-like growth, known as a follicle, just underneath the skin of the scalp. The bottom part of the follicle holds the papilla which contains an artery that nourishes the root of the hair.

As the shaft grows it pushes upward. It is made up of dead cells which are forced up as new, living cells are formed in the follicle. In about ten weeks an inch of this hair appears, and in an average lifetime about 25 feet of hair will have grown. Even though it is dead, each shaft (strand) keeps its shape and luster and is helped in this by an oily lubricant secreted by the follicle.

Nutritious food helps your hair, but worry, stress and strain hurt it and may cause some hair loss. It is quite normal to lose as many as 75 to 100 hairs a day. They have served their purpose, and the follicles will send out new replacements.

Analysis of hair can show whether the body is getting the right amount of minerals, such as iron, copper, chromium, zinc, etc., which God has wisely provided in certain foods. Laboratory tests show how much of each mineral is present, although, because of the hair's slow growth only the condition of a few months back will be revealed. Aside from this, most medical authorities question whether any disease can be determined through the hair.

How about baldness? Basically it, as well as graying, is the result of aging. But hair does not turn white (called gray) overnight as some claim. High fever, drugs or serious illness may cause baldness, but most bald people inherit the tendency from their parents, and there is no way to help this.

Now, how about straight or curly hair? Round strands make straight locks; oval strands become wavy; flat strands make kinky hair. But there are many variations of this as well.

Like all parts of the body, the hair that adorns our heads is one more wonderful work of God's creation. Incidentally, the Bible approves of long hair for a girl or a woman, but speaks of long hair on a boy or a man as "a shame unto him." 1 Cor. 11:14,15. It's something to think about if we wish to please the Lord, don't you agree? A good verse to remember is, "Them that honor Me I will honor." 1 Sam. 2:30.

Even the Birds Teach Us: Chapter 3

"But ask now the beasts, and they shall leach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee." Job 12:7-8.

"Proud as a Peacock"

"Gavest thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich?" Job 39:13.

Actually, the name peacock applies only to the male. The female is a peahen, and together they are called peafowl. Both of them are very pretty, but it is the male that has the most beauty with his 30-inch body and 5-foot tail. Each feather over his entire body is patterned with an iridescent "eye." He seems to enjoy proudly displaying this beauty by frequently lifting his tail and sweeping it back and forth.

These birds are native to Oriental countries, but have adapted easily to the many places they have been sent. The Bible tells us that Solomon imported them to Israel, probably to roam in his lovely gardens. The pharaohs of Egypt also did this.

There are two main color types. One is known as the blue Indian. It has a metallic blue-green neck and breast, purplish-blue underparts, and a long train of greenish feathers. It is the national bird of India.

The other is called Java green, and it has metallic bronze plumage and a crest of long, straight feathers on its head. It is the more splendid and stately of the two species with longer and slimmer legs. Its face is blue or yellow, and the crest of its head forms a long, straight tuft of fully-barbed feathers.

Both types are beautiful, but the blues are more popular because they are even-tempered. The greens are always fighting among themselves and sometimes attack people. The females (hens) of both varieties are pretty, and nearly as large as the cocks, but lacking the long train of feathers and crowns.

The "eyes" of the feathers on nearly all peafowl appear as a deep purple-green pupil, centered in an orange iris, topped with yellow, lavendar, and green semi-circles, all pointing to the feather's end. How faithfully they follow the pattern given by the Creator when He first placed them on the earth! Each generation repeats the design perfectly.

The only thing that spoils these unusually pretty birds is their voice. How disappointing when they call to find that no sweet song comes forth, but only harsh, rough cries, sounding like fighting cats or someone desperately calling for help.

"Proud as a peacock" is a common expression. Of course, the peacocks do not know about it. But we, for whom the Bible has been provided, know that we should not let pride come into our hearts and minds. One Bible verse states: "The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down; and the Lord alone shall be exalted." Isa. 2:11. May we always remember to be humble and give all praise to Him, "the Son of God, who loved [us], and gave Himself for [us]." Gal. 2:20.

The Busy Humming Bird

It is a thrill to watch this pretty little bird darting about the garden, dipping its long beak into a flower, then flying backward a short distance before zooming off in another direction. This little bird, weighing less than an ounce, sometimes beats its wings 200 times per second!

Have you ever seen a humming bird's nest? They like to gather fuzz from certain ferns, or other light material, to make the desired shape. The male brings load after load of this to its mate, who waits at a chosen place on a limb. When enough material has been collected, they work together to make the nest and tightly fasten it to the branch. Then the male flies off to collect silk threads from several spider webs. He brings these home by flying backward, so he will not get tangled in them. He covers the outside of the home with these threads to add strength. When finished he covers the whole nest with moss to hide it from enemies.

Did you know these little creatures are great travelers? North America is only their summer home. They migrate in the autumn; the males leaving first and the females and young coming later. They fly to Central America, some going by way of Florida and Cuba. Others take a shortcut across the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of five or six hundred miles over water, with never a chance to rest enroute.

We are told these birds eat nothing while migrating these great distances, which is sometimes as much as two thousand miles. This is remarkable, for when nesting and raising their young they must eat their own weight in nectar and insects every day to survive. The secret of flying such great distances without food is they store up fat by eating extra large portions in advance of their flight. This fat, normally about 15% of their weight, increases to around 45% and provides "fuel" for the long journey.

In spite of much studying, no definite answer has been found to explain why they leave when they do, or how they know how to time their return to be back at the exact time their favorite flowers will be coming into bloom. But we do know that their Creator, watching over everything in His creation, has given them the ability to make their journeys at just the right time, directing them, too, over the many miles they must travel.

The Bible does not mention the humming bird by name, but does tell us "Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young." Psa. 84:3. The One who enables the lowly sparrows and swallows to nest and raise their young is the same One who also provides for all the needs of the lovely humming birds.

His word to us is "I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye." Psa. 32:8. Are you listening to His instruction and are you willing to let Him guide you in the path of Life? Our Lord Jesus Christ always proves to be a loving Savior to all who put their trust in Him.

The Desert-Wise Cactus Wren

"Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, who humbleth Himself to behold the things... in the earth!" Psa. 113:5,6.

About the size of a robin, the cactus wren is the largest member of the wren family. Its brown feathers mottled with white, together with the jewel-like, bright red or orange iris of its eyes, combine to make it quite a pretty bird.

As its name indicates the cactus wren makes its home in the hot deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This is where its ability to thrive in the harsh desert has been provided by the Creator, and it seems quite content there. It has been given a remarkable instinct to place its nest among the needle-like armor of spiny cholla and other cactus plants. This defense is so good that its enemies (owls, wood rats, ground squirrels and snakes) do not care to attack often. So sure is the wren of this protection that it makes no attempt to conceal its nest which is placed about three feet above the ground.

The straw-colored nests, where speckled eggs are laid and the young raised, are often as' big as a man's head. Shaped like a flask they are made of desert plants, grass and twigs and lined with soft wooly fibers and feathers. These nests show the God-given skill handed down from one generation to another. When finished with her nest the female wren builds a landing platform surrounded by sharp cactus spikes from which an oval passage, as much as a foot long, goes into the nest itself.

However, the male bird is not invited to share this nest. Instead, if he cannot find an abandoned one to use he builds himself a separate one nearby. He is not as careful about its construction as the female is with hers, except that he also places it among protective needles of a cactus or thorny bush. The female's nest may be reused year after year, but the male's often will fall apart during the first winter's storms.

Cactus wrens are wary creatures, although they do select high perches for singing their melodious songs. However, when searching for food they prefer to fly close to the ground, screened by desert bushes. Most of their food is insects and seeds of desert plants. When hunting, these wise little birds know that much food lives under stones, so they turn these over to get at the insects that live underneath. Some of these stones may weigh half as much as the birds do.

Our opening verse tells us of our Creator God who, though mighty, humbles Himself to look after all His creatures. This includes you as well, and not only does He care for your needs, but the Bible tells us, "The Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off forever." 1 Chron. 28:9.

What does He see when He looks into your heart?

The Shrieking Shrike

"Nast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary?" Isa. 40:28.

Among the birds the Creator has placed throughout the world, there are more than 50 varieties of one called the shrike. Usually they are about the size of a blue jay, and all of them eat nothing but flesh, including insects, snakes, small birds, mice and other rodents.

While most of them are rather plain black or brown with some white beneath, there are three unusual ones—the woodchat, with a brilliant red top on its head; the gray-headed which, as its name suggests, has gray on the front of its head, changing to green on its back and tail, offset by a soft-yellow body below; and the plumed helmet, with a white feathery plume rising proudly above the back of its head.

Most common in North America is the great shrike, with a 10 to 14-inch body and wingspread of more than a foot. Its strong, notched bill is equipped with a sharp, hooked point just like other birds of prey. As with other shrikes it nests in trees or shrubs where a cup-shaped home is lined with feathers, fibers, hair and sometimes ornamented with old snake skins.

These birds use high, exposed perches as vantage points. They have rather sweet, warbling songs, sometimes mimicking other birds or even quacking like a duck. But when a victim is spotted a harsh, shrieking call is made, and then swooping swiftly down its catch is made in mid air or on the ground and is promptly killed.

Since its claws are not strong enough to carry its prey any distance, it hangs it on a nearby support. This may be a large thorn, the sharp point of a broken limb, or the barbs of a wire fence. There it eats its meal, taking portions to its little ones in the nest and leaving the remainder for a later meal. This is how it got the nickname "butcherbird" and also why it is an unpopular bird to many. However, farmers are always glad to have them nearby, knowing they are a help in destroying harmful insects, mice and other pests.

Perhaps it was to benefit people this way that the Creator provided the shrike, for God's first thoughts concerning the creatures of earth are toward mankind. The Bible says, "So God created man in His own image.... and God blessed them, and God said unto them... have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." Gen. 1:27,28.

The Bible also tells boys and girls, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth." Eccl. 12:1. How important it is to remember Him not only as the Creator, but to know Him as your own Lord and Savior. Is this true of you?

Shearwater Travelers

"The heavens are Thine, the earth also is Thine:... Thou hast founded them." Psa. 89:11

Every bird is a marvel of God's creation and defies the foolish theories of men who teach evolution. It was on the fifth day of creation that God made "every winged fowl after his kind." Ever since, they have reproduced their own kind and spread throughout the world.

Among the birds that migrate are several species of shearwaters. Some are about the size of a pigeon, others are as large as sea gulls. These ocean birds have long wings that enable them to fly and glide long distances. They enjoy skimming along the water, catching a fish for dinner without stopping.

The greater shearwater is an Atlantic Ocean bird, nesting and hatching its young in the Triston da Cunha islands of the South Atlantic from January to March. As the north begins to warm up in the spring, they fly to Newfoundland and then on to Greenland. But they do not settle anywhere very long. In another three months they move on to Iceland, Scotland and Ireland. Then in October or November they migrate south along the coast of France. Soon great flocks are returning to their nesting spots in the South Atlantic, traveling thousands of miles on this round-trip journey.

The short-tailed shearwater is just as busy in the Pacific area. From September through November it nests along the coasts of South Australia and Tasmania. The female lays only one egg, but millions are nesting in the same area, so when the chicks hatch it is a busy community.

In April or May both young and old travel north along the Japanese Coast, taking about a month to reach the Aleutians and other Arctic islands. Well insulated against the cold, they thrive on the abundant seafood of these chilly waters. But, like their cousins of the Atlantic, they become restless, too, and start south in August. They return by a different route, traveling down the Pacific Coast to California and then southwest across to their breeding grounds in Australia. This way they take advantage of prevailing winds which help them to travel swiftly.

What wonderful navigators these birds are! No one knows how they find their way over such long distances or how they all decide to leave their surroundings together and fly on to their next spot. But we do know they are following God-given instincts which are passed on from generation to generation.

But the Bible tells us "There is a path which no fowl knoweth." Job 28:7. That is the path of salvation made possible by God's love to every boy and girl. He invites everyone to come to Him to be saved from their sins through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ the Lord. Is He your Savior?

The Submissive Eider Duck

"He shall cover thee with His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou trust." Psa. 91:4.

People who live in Iceland and many other northern islands are well acquainted with the eider duck. They are seen each May and June when large numbers of them migrate there to nest and raise their young. These pretty marbled-brown birds, with a gentle disposition, weigh about five pounds and live entirely on seafood while in the breeding grounds. They are wonderful divers, their big webbed feet propelling them down through the water to the bottom where they find crabs, mussels and oysters to eat.

On these far-northern islands there is no brush, trees or swamps in which to make nests—only level ground. At this time of year great areas are covered with low green grasses in which their shallow nests are made. These are cleverly hidden, so that a person walking in the area needs to keep a sharp lookout to avoid stepping on a mother duck sitting on her yellow eggs. Because there are so many present at one time, they nest close together. It is interesting that they never make the mistake of going to a wrong nest. During the four weeks of incubating her eggs, the mother duck never eats and only leaves the nest for a short time each morning to take a bath.

The Creator has provided the eider with warm feathers and down to preserve it from the intense cold of the northern climate. After laying her eggs (often in the same nest year after year) the female plucks a large quantity of this fine down from her body with her broad bill and makes an eiderdown "comforter," covering the eggs with it. If she did not do this the eggs would chill and spoil when she took her morning bath, and the little ones would never hatch. Isn't it wonderful how the Lord God, the Creator, has taught them to do this? There is always a market for the soft down (which sells for about $300 a pound), for it has better insulating quality than any manmade fibers. Warm blankets, jackets, lining in outdoor clothing, etc. are made from it. The mother duck is very gentle and allows men to lift her off the nest and remove the down. After she is replaced on the nest, she plucks more down from her breast and makes a new covering for her eggs. During the nesting season she allows this to happen twice, but will desert her nest and its eggs if it's done a third time. The down is so light that it takes three-dozen nests to make a pound.

The Bible verse at the beginning of this article likens the Lord's care over His own to that of birds such as the eider. But His love and care are far greater than that of the most loving bird. His expression concerning it is "I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee." Jer. 31:3. He has fully shown this love by giving His life on Calvary's cross to wash away the sins of all who will accept Him as their Savior. Are you sheltered "under His wings"?

The Delightful Plovers

"And the heavens shall praise Thy wonders, O Lord." Psa. 89:5

Some 65 species of long-winged plovers, in a wide variety of colors and sizes, live throughout the world. Most of these birds are found near lakes or oceans where they find food along the beaches. It is interesting to watch them looking for food along the shore. They run fast and then abruptly stop to look for a bit of food. Or they follow an outgoing wave, looking for pieces of fish, oysters, etc. left behind, but then scoot rapidly back before the next wave catches them.

These water lovers nest on beaches, scraping out saucer-shaped nests in the sand or gravel. The speckled eggs, the nests and even the birds themselves blend in with their surroundings so well a person could pass close by without being aware of them. This protection is just one of the benefits provided by their Creator.

An interesting species is the Egyptian plover. In the oppressive heat of summer, the mother bird carries water in her beak, trip after trip, to dampen the young ones and keep them cool. This is the same' plover that hops into a crocodile's open mouth, picking food particles from its teeth. The crocodile naturally enjoys this and never harms the bird. Who do you think taught them these things?

But it is the golden plover that captures the interest of most bird lovers, for it is one of the world's greatest travelers. In the springtime it nests and raises its young in the far north on the shores of the Aleutians and the Bering Sea. When the little ones are able to care for themselves, the parents leave them, taking off on a non-stop 2500 mile flight to Hawaii without the help of a map or compass. Isn't that amazing! Most of us couldn't even run one mile without stopping, but they fly that great distance without eating, drinking or stopping to rest. What surprising strength the Creator has given them!

But here's something even more amazing: their young ones, left behind to mature, take off a few weeks later on the same trip, even though they have never done it before and with no apparent guide to show them the way. Their Guide, which was the same One for their parents, is the very Lord who created them and provides strength and guidance for them to make it safely to their journey's end. Like their parents, after resting a few weeks in Hawaii they then fly southeast to South America and other places in the South Pacific to spend the winter. The following spring they fly north along the eastern shores of the Pacific Ocean to their former nesting grounds, completing a round trip of about 8000 miles.

The Bible informs us that the Lord Jesus wants to be our Guide and strength, too. The verse at the beginning tells us this, as well as Psa. 32:8, "I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye." Are you asking Him to guide you through your life as He invites you to do? Following His directions is the only safe and happy way.

The Unlovely Crow

"He [God] giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry." Psa. 147:9.

The Bible does not mention crows by name, but speaks of "every raven after his kind," which includes the crow family. So our opening verse assures us that the Creator cares for crows and even hears the cries of their little ones.

When full grown these jet-black birds weigh about three pounds. Always hungry, they eat just about anything that can be swallowed, including corn and other grains from farmer's fields, mice, grubs, eggs, even small birds and small, dead animals. In fact, they have been seen gulping down pieces of plastic and rubber, no doubt thinking them to be food.

It is no secret to those living near crows, especially just after sunrise, that they do not hesitate to announce their presence with loud annoying "caws." But, in spite of this bad habit, they are very clever and seem almost intelligent at times. Captive crows quickly perform tricks and, like parrots, can even learn a few words (although not knowing what they mean). They are clever in imitating other bird sounds, too.

Spotting a lone owl trying to hide in a tree, a group of crows soon get together and with loud and raucous cawing gang up to chase it out of the area. However, they know better than to get in the way of its sharp beak and claws. Another of their annoying tricks is to snatch a hooked fish from the end of a fisherman's line before he can reel it in.

No bird is hated more than the crow. Yet in spite of efforts to wipe them out with poisons and guns, their numbers continually increase. In many places they are now protected by law, because the tremendous amount of harmful insects and small rodents they eat more than makes up for their bad habits, so there is no danger of them becoming extinct. It is understandable that crows may not appeal to many people, but they are part of God's creation, and their unusual instincts and cleverness have been provided by Him so they can perform their part of His purposes in the bird world.

The Bible tells us that every living creature is in the hands of the Lord. Isn't it wonderful to learn of His care over all things, including crows. But it is especially important to know His watchfulness over every boy and girl, every man and woman, as the Bible verse says, "His eyes are upon the ways of man, and He seeth all his goings." Job 34:21. He wants us to draw near to Him and so He declares: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you... thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Also, "Ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart." Jer. 29:11,13.

Have you gone to Him and proved His love for you and the peace that He alone can give?

The Sociable Weaver Birds

"Remember His marvelous works that He hath done; His wonders, and the judgments of His

mouth." Psa. 105:5

Those interested in birds find a never-ending pleasure and amazement in discovering the great variety God has made and provided for. The weaver birds of Africa, Asia, India and Java, represent an interesting species and are noted for their intricate nests, braided by their beaks and feet from grass, bark strips, plant stems, etc. Each group has its own design, some looking like haystacks suspended from tree branches, others securely tied to a tree trunk. Openings are always either at the side or bottom through which they enter, climbing a long tube to the nest above.

One variety, the sociable weavers, form colonies of several hundred nests around a large tree trunk. When the nests are completed they work together to build an umbrella-shaped covering over the whole colony. Another species, the village weavers, also form colonies, but these hang a great number of nests from a single tree without building a covering. From a distance their nests look like great pieces of fruit hanging from the limbs.

The Jackson's weaver's nest is unusual. An extra-long home is made from thin strips of palm leaves, and then suspended from a branch with its opening at the bottom. The tube inside goes part way to the top, ending at a point where a huge bulge forms the nest, off-center and to one side only. A black-headed species, the b ay a weaver, with a mixture of dark brown and yellow feathers, also builds an unusual nest which looks like it has a large ball crossing its center, making it bulge far out on both sides.

Most weavers are about the size of robins and are equipped with short, strong bills. Males are often bright red, orange, yellow and black, although some are all black. Females are plain brown, the Creator's way of concealing them from enemies.

When seeking a mate, the male bird often makes several nests, and when a companion is found he lets her choose one of them. Usually after she has chosen one he tears down the others, but sometimes he'll find more mates to fill the unused ones.

An amazing thing about weavers (and many other birds too) is that if the eggs are hatched artificially and kept away from their parents until mature, the offspring have no difficulty building nests identical to those of their parents! Where do you think they learned this? This is another example of the wonders of God's creation, the One "In whose hand is the soul [life] of every living thing." Job 12:10.

In the same book of the Bible we are instructed: "Hear My words, O ye wise men; and give ear unto Me." We should certainly do this, "For His eyes are upon the ways of man, and He seeth all his goings." Job 34:2,21. We also are given the wonderful promise, "He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life." John 5:24. Are you among those who have both heard and believed?

Charming Barbets

"The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9

There are about 75 species of bar bets, all having colorful and powerful bills which make them look like miniature toucans. In relation to their size, these birds have large heads and are short-tailed. The smallest variety is about three inches long and the largest close to twelve inches. They are tropical birds which do not migrate. They live in the forests of Africa, Central and South America and other parts of the South Pacific.

All barbets have bright colors mixed with white and dark, and many bird lovers consider them the most beautiful of all birds. Each species bears a descriptive name, but we have space to mention only two. One is called the crimson-throated. It is strictly a fruit eater and is especially fond of wild figs. Another is called red and yellow, although it is almost entirely green except for a red crest on its head, a blue throat and yellow on the sides of its neck. All the others, of course, are equally interesting.

The Creator has provided barbets with strong legs and feet having sharp claws, enabling them to climb and hold securely to the side of a tree while feeding or digging a nest out of a rotten area of the trunk. Males and females work together, their big beaks pulling out the rotten wood. They make a nest with a small opening, but large enough inside for both of them and their young, which usually number four. They are tidy housekeepers and promptly discard all foreign objects that get into the nest.

The lives of almost all barbets are spent in the trees, and they seldom go to the ground. Resting after a search for insects, lizards, rodents and fruit, they often sit on a limb for hours without moving. There they call back and forth to one another in sharp, ringing tones which have no real melody. It is "just everybody for himself," and it is amusing to hear their happy but discordant notes when a pair sits cozily side by side, bursting into ringing chirps, not being at all concerned that they do not harmonize.

These lovely birds remind us of the Lord's pleasure in His creation; as a Bible verse says, "He hath made His wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion." Psa. 111:4. That gracious compassion is toward everything He has created, but is especially extended to all the people of the earth. Jeremiah, one of the Bible prophets, wrote, "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is [His] faithfulness.... Therefore will I hope in Him." Lam. 3:22-24.

Have you accepted Him as your personal Savior?

Lovers of Dead Things

"There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture's eye hath not seen." Job 28:7.

You would not want a vulture or condor as a pet! Their red heads, often covered with warts or loose-hanging skin, cruel beaks and bare snake-like necks make them rather ugly. Among the many kinds the largest is the South American Andean condor which is about four feet long with a multi-colored head, topped with a crown of loose skin called a carbuncle. The California condor is almost as large.

Although clumsy on the ground, the condor is a picture of grace when flying hundreds or even thousands of feet in the air. Rising on thermals (air currents) they make an impressive display of skillful soaring, wheeling and circling. Often they will soar for hours and never flap their great wings. Do you think they do this for fun? No, it is a serious matter with them. Provided with the keenest eyesight of any creature, they can spot a dead animal, a sick one ready to die, or keep a lion or tiger in sight so that when a kill is made they can drop down and claim part of it. An amazing thing happens when they find a dead animal. Although only one or two of these birds may have been seen in the sky, the minute one drops down after a dead animal large numbers somehow always appear in the sky, dropping down to squabble over the dead animal.

Reaching the food, it is seen why the Creator made them as He did. Their heads and long necks are bare so they can easily reach into the dead animal's body. Feathers would get so filthy they could never get them clean. A sharp hook on the end of their beaks helps tear off pieces of flesh. Their tongues, lined with "teeth" that point inward, move the food into their gullets. When several of them are present, a carcass is stripped to its skeleton in minutes. Frequently they eat so much they have difficulty getting airborne again.

Although so unattractive, vultures and condors are an important part of God's creation, and He has provided them with the features so necessary in their lives. Their great service is to dispose of dead creatures that would pollute the air and spread disease. They are sometimes called "undertaker birds," performing their duty that the Creator has determined for them.

While vultures are properly occupied in their way of life, they bring to mind foolish people whose appetites are for the "dead things" of the world and have not obeyed the important Bible verse, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world." 1 John 2:15.

God's Word, the Bible, points to the right things to occupy us. One who happily proved this said, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart." Jer. 15:16. Can you say this?

The Purple Martin

"For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come." Sol. 2:11,12.

Martins return each spring to North America, and their cheerful chirping, added to that of other birds, makes a pleasant atmosphere for all. How good it is to remember that each one of these is a part of God's wonderful creation, just as we are. He watches over and cares for them, as His Word, the Bible, tells us, "Ye are of more value than many sparrows." Matt. 10:31. Each one of us should thank Him for His loving care.

The forked tail and wide wings of martins, as well as the way they catch food on the wing, indentify them as part of the swallow family. There are several species, including the house martin, the sand martin and others, but we will just take a quick look at the largest—the purple martin. The males of this variety are colored all over with pretty purple feathers including their tail and wings. The female is much the same, but the underside of her body is light colored.

Because they are great insect eaters they have earned the friendship of farmers as well as those who live in the suburbs, many of whom place "martin houses" on tall supports near their homes or barns. Some of these houses allow space for 100 nests or more. But there is one problem in these "apartment houses" which have adjoining balconies where the birds like to perch and alight before entering their nests. The baby birds, able to hop about but not yet ready to fly, sometimes come out of their nests onto the balcony. After exploring around they forget which hole they came from and so are likely to enter a neighbor's house by mistake. Strangely enough, parent martins do not seem to be able to recognize their own chicks. When returning to their nests after this has happened, they have no way of hunting them out from their newly adopted home, where they are accepted as part of that family.

Although martins do not like other birds as close neighbors, sparrows don't share these feelings. If there is an opportunity a sparrow will move into the martins' "housing project" and even chase a true owner away. If this happened to most birds, they would work together to keep the intruder out, but the martin is not a fighter so meekly accepts the loss of its home to the smaller thief.

Our opening verse speaks of the happy season of the year when winter's cold, dark days are over, flowers are showing their pretty colors, and birds are returning from their migrations. It is a good deal like that, too, when a boy or girl learns to put his or her trust in the Lord Jesus. The dark times are put behind and the reality of being a Christian brings a joy many times better than even the yearly return of springtime. Has this been your experience?

The Big-Beaked Pelican

"The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.... He bath made His wonderful works to be remembered." Psa. 111:2,4.

Both the white and the brown pelican live in America, and other species are found throughout the world. Huge colonies nest on ocean islands—others prefer inland lakes or ocean bays and beaches. Their nests may be made of water plants, mud or even stones and sand. The pelicans don't seem too particular.

The white pelican is as much as five feet long and has a ten-foot wing spread; the brown pelican is somewhat smaller. Its heavy body is supported by strong, short legs and large, webbed feet. It has a long neck with a big head which is mostly a long flat bill, the upper half having a sharp hook on it. The lower portion is equipped with an elastic pouch which stretches out, forming a big scoop. After scooping up a fish (water and all), the pouch is contracted, squeezing out the water before the fish is swallowed.

Spotting a fish from the air, this big bird drops like a bomb, stretches its neck straight out, and with folded wings enters the water with a great splash, shortly reappearing with one or more fish in its pouch. At other times a dozen or more work together. Landing in a semicircle on the deep-water side of a school of fish, the pelicans beat their strong wings in the water, driving their prey to the shallow shoreline where they are easily caught. Who taught them this clever trick? No one but God, their Creator, who also provided them with air pockets under their skin and hollow bones, so they are never in danger of sinking. How wonderfully He adapts every creature to its manner of life!

Young ones are born with bare, pink skin, but are soon covered with down and later by true feathers. The parents carefully protect them from the hot sun when they are first hatched, always standing over them in such a way as to keep them in the shade of their big bodies.

Once in the air this otherwise clumsy bird becomes a graceful flier and can fly long distances. When taking off from the water, it must first run along the surface, beating the air with its powerful wings in order to lift off. When several fly together they fly in a V-formation and beat their wings in unison. The Creator has given them this instinct, because flying in this manner produces air currents which make flying easier. The air pockets beneath their skin and the lightness of their bones are great helps in their ability to fly so well.

Pelicans may seem like strange birds, but they are part of the "works of the Lord" stated in our verse. Whenever we watch them, as well as every other creature, we should consider how He not only made them, but watches over them with loving care, as He does with every one of us.

The Charming Finches

"He sendeth the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills.... By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches." Psa. 104:10,12.

The finch most commonly seen in America is often called a wild canary, because its pretty yellow coloring is so similar to the caged pets in homes. These were brought to America from the Canary Islands many years ago, which is why they have that name.

Actually, it is only the male American finch that is golden yellow with a black skull cap, black wings and tail. The female has a grayish-green body with black wings edged in white. But both male and female are delightful little birds.

We can name here just a few of the many varieties of finches. One is the blue finch. The male is bright blue with red and pink on his wings while the female is plain brown on top and tan underneath. The cactus finch, which makes its home in the Galapagos Islands, has the remarkable' ability to move large stones to get at seeds and insects under them. In Asia and Europe bird lovers are fond of snow finches, which are found mainly in the mountains. These have pretty light-blue heads, white throats and underparts, and brown and white wings.

All finches have beautiful songs, especially when nesting. They all eat great quantities of seeds; the larger the bird the larger the seed or nut it prefers. The Creator has given each species a special bill. The sharp edge of the lower part fits into the upper part so that when a seed is plucked and the tongue places it in the right spot, the bill closes, the shell falls away, and the edible part is promptly swallowed. These birds, like chickens, have no teeth, but swallow food whole. Then their gizzards, which contain grit, grind it up for digestion. A crop in their throat stores undigested food for later use.

A favorite food is thistle seed. Eating this and weed seeds is valued by farmers, but they do not like them eating grain crops or visiting their strawberry fields.

Females build cup-shaped nests so tightly woven that if rain water gets in, the little chicks can sometimes drown. The male's responsibility is to keep his mate well fed while she is incubating the three to six eggs.

These birds are another example of the way the Creator has designed each creature for its way of life. We may be sure, as our opening verse indicates, He not only delights in providing food and drink for finches, but finds their sweet songs pleasant to His ear as well.

Another Bible verse says, "All Thy works shall praise Thee, O Lord; and Thy saints shall bless Thee. They shall speak of the glory of Thy kingdom, and talk of Thy power." Psa. 145:10,11. Does your voice praise Him?

The Birds Called a Booby

"Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them." Matthew 6:36.

Early-day sailors gave this bird the name booby because its strange antics seemed stupid to them. There are several varieties, but the most outstanding is one called the blue-footed booby. Well named, its broad, four-toed, webbed feet and short, stubby, bare legs are a bright enamel blue. They look as if they were painted. Its beak is blue as well, but not the same bright shade. Its wide wings are brown and its breast and underparts are pure white-a very pretty bird.

The Creator has well adapted the booby to its kind of life, living near the coasts and on nearby islands of the Pacific Ocean off Central America and Mexico. Waterproof plumage allows it to rest on the ocean surface as well as dive for fish. Wide, strong wings take it hundreds of miles over the sea and, beating rapidly, provide a power dive to catch a fish. At the last second before hitting the water the wings are pulled tightly against its body, its nostrils automatically close so no water enters,' and its strong, saw-toothed beak makes the catch. But it doesn't always need to, go under water since it can catch flying fish while they are in the air.

Colonies of thousands of these birds make nests only three or four feet apart on the bare ground, where three or four chicks are raised in each nest. These hatch out of the eggs naked, but in two or three weeks are covered with white feathers and their feet begin to show the blue color. Within three or four months they are fully developed and can feed themselves.

One thing that caused early sailors to call them boobies was their performance at nesting time. The male first picks out a nesting spot. Then he tries to attract a female by performing a peculiar hopping dance. He puts one blue foot ahead of the other and waves it at her, making loud whistles while pointing his beak skyward. If the female likes this performance she joins in, both stopping occasionally to bow, touch bills, point skyward and finally perform a stiff-legged walk together. After this the nest is completed and family life begins.

It is understandable how these activities seem humorous and even clumsy, especially when great numbers are engaged in them at the same time, but they are full of meaning to the blue-footed boobies and an important part of their courtship and the raising of little ones.

For thousands of years these birds, hidden away in these remote spots, were never seen by man. But the Creator has always cared for them, as the Bible verse says, "These wait all upon Thee.... [what] Thou givest them they gather: Thou openest Thine hand, they are filled with good." Psa. 104:27,28. The Lord God also provides for all mankind, and we should thank Him often for His care.

An Unusual Nest Builder

"Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man bath not where to lay His head." Luke 9:58.

An unusual bird found in Africa and a few other places in Europe is called the Cape Penduline tit. It is about the size of a sparrow, but has a much longer tail. It is not a colorful bird, having just a few scarlet and yellow feathers by which it can be identified.

They are cute little acrobats and enjoy hanging upside down on swinging leaves and swaying branches when hunting insects, seeds and berries. They like to hunt together in groups of ten to twenty, constantly calling back and forth with low and pretty whistles.

The outstanding thing about the Cape Penduline tit is its long nest, a bag-like waterproof container suspended from a branch. The male bird usually starts to build the nest, weaving hoops of grass and fibers to form its basic shape. Soon his mate joins him and quite often others come to help; they seem to realize it is too big a project for two little birds to do alone. After the framework is completed, the bottom, walls and top are finished. Finally soft, fluffy materials, together with thousands of feathers, are woven in to make a soft, comfortable lining.

It is the entrance to this nest that is the most interesting. Two thirds of the way up, a large opening is made on one side, looking like the entrance, but it actually goes into an empty chamber walled off all by itself. However, this serves a real purpose.

When the parent bird returns from hunting food, it flies directly into this empty part, settles to the bottom, then cautiously pokes its head out to make sure no enemy is around. Satisfied that it is safe it reaches up with its beak, tugs gently on a concealed section and, lo and behold, another opening appears into which it enters. This is the true entrance, and the bird travels through it down to the nest area, the trapdoor closing by itself after it enters. A clever use of cobwebs and silk from the caterpillar nests makes a flexible hinge on this doorway, keeping it shut when not in use. Leaving the nest, the bird goes through the same routine, hopping into the big opening before flying off, so that any enemy seeing it there will think that is the place to enter during the owner's absence.

When the little birds grow up they, too, will make identical nests with never having had a lesson to help them! How have they learned this? The answer is that the Lord God provided these abilities and instincts when He created them, and these are passed on from one generation to another. No lei..;ons are necessary!

God watches over them at all times, as we read: "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest [visible] in His sight." Heb. 4:13. Yes, he is looking upon you, as well, and knows everything you do and think. How important it is to make the prayer of David your prayer also: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer." Psa. 19:14.

A Lesson From Bluebirds

"Ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee." Job 12:7.

Bluebirds are a real favorite with many people. They are gentle looking, have a sweet song, and like to live near people who often provide nesting boxes for them. There are only three varieties of true bluebirds, all of which live in North America or Mexico. These are the eastern, between the Rocky Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean; the western, in the area from the Pacific Ocean to the Rockies; and the mountain, which lives as far north as Alaska.

Most bluebirds migrate south in the early winter where food such as insects, seeds, berries and many fruits is plentiful. Those that bravely stay in the cold areas through wintertime live in big flocks. At night several crowd into a nest, snuggling together to keep warm.

In early springtime as the migrators return, they all select mates and build grassy cup-shaped nests (unless they find a nesting box provided by some bird lover). Eggs are laid and soon hatch out. Raising the chicks is a real chore since they have tremendous appetites, keeping both parents busy. One birdwatcher reported that throughout daylight hours food was brought to a nest by one or the other of the parents about every three minutes! My, what love they show, to work so hard for their young. Here is another example of the way the Creator has provided faithful instincts so the babies will be well taken care of.

The chicks grow quickly and within two or three weeks fly from the nest, often perching in a nearby tree where the father still feeds them and teaches them to care for themselves. Meanwhile the mother has cleaned up the nest and laid more eggs in it. When the new family hatches, the parents get busy feeding them, just as they did the older ones. But here is where the lesson we mentioned in our title, may be learned. When the birds already raised and living on nearby limbs see how busy the parents are and how hungry their new brothers and sisters are, they often help in bringing food to the new arrivals. Isn't that a kind thing to do? Only a very few other young birds are known to do this.

Here is a good example of how boys and girls can be helpful to their parents. This doesn't necessarily mean feeding babies, since there are other ways to show love. This can be done by doing dishes, making beds, weeding the garden, keeping the yard clean and many other things that show Mother and Dad your love in a real practical way.

When things like this are done in a happy spirit, they are always pleasing to the Lord. The Bible tells us, "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." Prov. 20:11. Do you please the Lord as well as Mother and Dad by helping them as young bluebirds help their Parents?

Birds That Eat Bees

"The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9.

There are many varieties of bee-eater birds, ranging in size from 6 to 14 inches. All have pretty feathers in various combinations of bright red, yellow, blue, brown and purple. A black mask appearing over the eyes is worn by all of them. These unusual birds live in Mediterranean countries, Africa, Australia, India and other tropical areas. The European bee-eaters migrate south in the winter.

Bees, wasps and hornets represent 80% of the bee-eater's diet along with a few other insects. These are captured in the air-even the young can do this without any lessons from their parents. Their food being caught this way explains why the Creator gave them long, pointed wings and swallow-like tails, enabling them to fly swiftly and make quick turns in their flights so that they rarely fail to capture their prey.

Another special thing about this bird is its long curved and pointed beak. What purpose does it serve?

Well, if they only ate flying ants, termites, etc., a short, wide beak like a swallow's would do very well. But catching bees and wasps is another matter, since a sting in the mouth or throat would not only be painful, but would probably mean death to the bird. So God gave it a specially designed beak.

Overtaking a bee in mid-air, it skillfully catches the bee across its middle just strongly enough to hold it tightly until the bird returns to its perch where it beats its captive against something solid to kill it. Then the pointed beak finds its usefulness, carefully removing and discarding the stinger, after which any remaining poison is squeezed out. Not until all this has been taken care of does it eat the bee or offer it to its babies. Isn't that a wonderful ability?

There are those who think bee-eaters must have practiced catching bees in this manner and removing their stingers over many centuries before doing it just right. But that is foolish thinking, for it is plain that until they learned to do it perfectly each of them would have been stung to death and the species would have died out. No, there could never be any "evolution" of this or any other kind. God Himself gave these pretty birds their knowledge of how to capture and eat these poisonous insects safely when He created them. This instinct and skill has been inherited by each generation ever since.

The Bible tells us, "Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world." Acts 15:18. It also tells us, "The Lord searcheth all hearts... if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee." 1 Chron. 28:9. What does He see when He searches your heart?

The Ways of Woodpeckers: Part 1

"The mighty God, even the Lord, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof." Psa. 50:1.

We hear the sound as we walk through the forest-rat-a-tat, rat-a tat, rat-a-tat. High on the trunk of a dead tree we finally see what is making the noise-a woodpecker clinging to the trunk with its head hammering against it as though trying to beat its brains out. But it knows what it is doing, as we will soon see.

There are nearly two dozen kinds of woodpeckers in North America and about 300 throughout the rest of the world. The smallest is the downey which is six inches long from beak to tail tip. The largest is the ivory-billed woodpecker which is a foot and a half long. All climb tree trunks and spend many hours on them searching for food. The Creator has equipped them for this by providing them with two strong toes pointing forward and two pointing backward, although some species have just one pointing backward. Their claws dig firmly into the tree. In addition, stiff tail feathers with sharp barbs on their tips press against the trunk giving added support.

The woodpecker is considered by many to be the most baffling of all birds, as it slams its head against tree trunks hundreds of times a minute several times a day. Any other bird or animal trying to do this would damage its head, neck and body so severely that it would not survive very long. But God designed woodpeckers with bodies that thrive on such treatment. You see, there has always been a special work for them to do which is helpful to trees and mankind as well. To do this work it has been given a large head, a short and powerful neck and a strong chisel-like beak which keeps growing to take care of "wear and tear." Its head is reinforced inside with bony supports, a lining and an air space, all to protect the brain. How wisely God has made all His creatures!

One reason why these birds drill holes in trees is to make a nest. They first cut an entrance and then enlarge it inside to a foot or more deep and several inches across. Chips falling to the bottom of the hole provide a soft base for the half dozen or more glossy white eggs that will be laid. The male bird starts the carving, but usually leaves the finishing to his mate. These holes are used only one season-new ones being drilled each year. No doubt the abandoned ones are a delight to other birds, squirrels and chipmunks that usually take them over.

It is certain that the Lord God, the Creator, takes real delight in these birds, as it is written of Him: "For Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:11. More importantly, it is through Him that you are here, as the Bible verse says, "For in Him we live, and move, and have our being." Acts 17:28. Are you aware of that care, and have you thanked Him for His love and kindness to you?

The Ways of Woodpeckers: Part 2

"Thou hast made... the earth and all things that are therein... and Thou preservest them all." Neh. 9:6.

Woodpeckers are pretty birds with mixed colors of black, yellow, orange, red, green, white, etc. Some, like the pileated and ivory-billed varieties, have beautiful tufts of feathers forming crowns on their heads.

Their hole drilling is principally to get at beetles, grubs and other insects inside trees. They have an amazing ability to hear these insects chewing the wood, and a hole is drilled at that spot with the bird's tongue reaching in to pull out the meal.

Their tongue is one of the things setting these birds apart from other birds. While most have tongues connected to their mouths, woodpeckers have tongues attached to thin, flexible bones passing over the skull and coiling up behind it. Can you guess why God made it that way? The reason is that a woodpecker needs to get far back in the hole to catch the insect. If its tongue were attached to its mouth it would not be long enough. So one that stretches out far was provided by a wise Creator. The tongues of woodpeckers are also specially designed in other ways. For instance, the pretty flicker has a long, sticky one. Any ant, beetle or borer touched by it cannot escape. Other varieties have barbs on the end to pierce the insect, pulling it out of its home. Another, the sapsucker, drills most of its holes in just the outer layers of live trees. These holes form little wells where sweet sap collects. The end of its tongue is equipped with a brush, helping it to lap up the syrup.

The acorn woodpecker, named for its fondness of acorns, has an interesting practice. It drills holes in trees, fence posts, or utility poles and then stuffs one acorn in each hole. Often hundreds and even thousands of storage "cupboards" are made to assure it plenty to eat in winter months.

Woodpeckers are very beneficial to mankind, devouring millions of harmful insects. Without their help many trees would die from the attacks of insects. Thus they are another example of God's ways of keeping a necessary balance among all things in His creation.

Where do you think these remarkable birds learned how to capture insects hidden inside tree trunks? Where did they receive the unusual features of their bodies? We know they did not slowly develop these qualities over centuries of time. They were given them by the Creator when He placed them on the earth, as it is written: "In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind." Job 12:10.

This reminds us that we, too, share in His blessings. We are responsible not only to enjoy them, but to own Him as the One who is "the way, the truth and the life." He, the only Savior of sinners, invites us to believe on Him for everlasting life (1 Tim. 1:15).

Birds on Schedule

"Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young." Psa. 84:3.

It's springtime and here come those pretty, acrobatic cliff swallows again, dressed in feathers of brown, red, yellow and white. Through the winter they have been in South America, but now seem happy to return to many parts of North America for nest building, raising of young, and an active life in the northern climate.

Cliff swallows look like their cousins, the barn swallows, but have a flat tail instead of a forked one. Their legs are short and not very strong, but they hardly need them for anything but perching, since they catch nearly all their food while flying. The reliability of their annual return on certain calendar days to a former locality is a clue to farmers when to plant some crops. They know swallows are among their best friends because they help destroy untold numbers of mosquitoes and harmful insects that spoil those crops. Their punctuality also prompts some "prophets" to announce their arrival in advance. Some people, not realizing that a God-given instinct brings them back so regularly, praise these "prophets" for their ability to foretell the future!

Cliff swallows like to live near humans, either on nearby cliffs, under bridges, or under the eaves of houses and barns. Their nests are most interesting. Muddy clay (sometimes provided by farmers) is the building material mixed with gluey saliva and straw. A beak-full at a time is daubed on the surface they have chosen. Then one mouthful after another being added, the jar-shaped nest soon extends to five or six inches, the end tapered having an open entrance. The inside is lined with feathers and grass, providing a comfortable and safe place for laying a half-dozen eggs and raising the chicks.

These birds are sociable. Usually a large number of nests are grouped together, actually touching one another. Watching a swallow fly in and out so swiftly, it is amazing how it avoids getting into a neighbor's nest, but no mistakes of this kind are made. The Lord God who first placed them on the earth has given them remarkable instincts and abilities in their swift flight patterns.

The mouth of the cliff swallow is an example of how every bird in God's creation is well equipped for its manner of life. It has been given a short, broad bill which opens wide to scoop up insects and to dig and carry large gobs of mud for nest building. Its wings show the Creator's wisdom, too. They are long and flexible and enable the swallow to make its beautiful diving-and-turning flight as it pursues its food.

But God has not only shown His care over animals and birds. In addition to His care and provisions for wildlife, He extends His love to all mankind. This was most wondrously shown when He gave His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to die on Calvary's cross to provide forgiveness of sins to all who confess Him as Savior. Have you thanked Him for His love to you?

The Big Gobbler

"I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are Mine." Psa. 50:11.

The Thanksgiving holiday is "Turkey Day" in many homes-a custom started over 200 years ago when the Pilgrims made a feast to thank God for their bountiful crops. Indians who were invited brought wild turkeys, and this tasty meat proved so popular that the annual feast including a turkey became a national practice.

The wild turkey that lives throughout the United States is one of the craftiest of creatures. It has excellent sight and can spot intruders before they can come near. Its bronze colors help it to blend into the brush. It can run from danger at speeds of 15 miles an hour or take to the air at more than 50 miles an hour!

A wild big torn (male) is an interesting sight, particularly when he is seeking a mate. Seeing a hen, a tom approaches her with loud gobbles coming from his bald head, which is brightly colored blue and orange. His shaking wattles (skin that hangs down from his neck and head) become brilliant red. With breast and body feathers puffed out he spreads his wings to the ground and fans out his multi-colored tail. Strutting around in a lordly manner on powerful coral-pink legs, he seems to be saying, "Better not pass me up. Just see how grand I am!"

The hen makes her nest in dry leaves for the four-week incubation of a dozen eggs. Almost immediately after hatching, the little ones can feed themselves, and she trains them to find nuts, berries, fruit, seeds and insects. They are not aware of it, but we know it is the Creator's care that provides for them. The Bible says, "Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap... yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?" Matt. 6:26. He certainly does count us "much better than they" and wants us to know His love and His desire that we come to His heavenly home.

As soon as the chicks can fly they leave the nest and roost at night in the trees, which is a much safer place. Female chicks stay with their mother about a year, but the young toms stay just a few months. In about two years they are full grown, weighing from 20 to 30 pounds.

If a rattlesnake appears the hens puff out their feathers and with loud hissing usually frighten it away. But if it continues to threaten them, a torn soon shows up and the snake is doomed. Striking the torn, all it gets is a mouthful of feathers. The tom's sharp beak soon kills this enemy.

These birds of the forest are clever, but the Bible tells us God has made us wiser than they (Job 35:11). That wisdom is given so that we might seek the Lord in our lives and answer to His promise: "I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me." Prov. 8:17. Are you wise enough to follow His instruction?

Birds That Build Playhouse: Part 1

"And out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air." Gen. 2:19.

In Australia and New Guinea there are 18 known varieties of bowerbirds. Some have descriptive names such as the stage maker, the spotted, the satin and the gardener and range in size from the nine-inch golden bower to the fifteen-inch Archbold's variety.

Many of them are very pretty with bright feathers of green, orange or other bold colors. The satin bower is one of these, as is the regent with its bright golden-yellow head, neck and wing patches offsetting a velvety black body. Others are plain gray or brown. All nest either in bushes or in holes of tree trunks where four or five eggs are laid. These hatch in about two weeks, and the little ones soon learn to find their food, which includes fruits, seeds, lizards, frogs, spiders, numerous insects and even small snakes.

The outstanding thing about these birds is the way the males build elaborate playhouses (called bowers). The most common type is located in bushy areas. The male first finds bushes where there are two straight rows of bare bush stalks that run parallel for several feet, a foot or more apart. The male busily covers these rows by attaching long twigs and grass, arched to make a dome overhead, then cleaning out the walkway beneath to provide a smooth "run." If really ambitious he may build more than one run and room of this kind, all connected together.

His next activity is to beautify these walls and coverings with brightly colored objects such as shells, bright feathers, flowers, colored leaves, pretty stones and anything else he can find. Some of these items will also be spread on the walkway underneath. The final touch is provided by bringing juicy berries, smashing them into pulp, and then with his beak painting it on the bare upright stalks. Each male decorates his bower with items of one color. The Australian varieties prefer blue, but they will use another color if necessary.

Since these unique birds do not learn how to make bowers from their parents, how do they learn to build and decorate them so cleverly? Of course they don't have to "figure it out," for the instinct that prompts them to do this was given by God when He created the bower-bird and placed it on the earth.

Considering how obedient they are to these instincts, perhaps we, too, should consider whether we are equally obedient to God's instructions to us. One of these tells us, "[God] now commandeth all men every where to repent: because He hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness." Acts 17:30,31. Another Bible verse gives us this happy promise: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9. Have you repented, confessed that you are a sinner, and accepted His wonderful salvation?

Birds That Build Playhouses: Part 2

"Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world." Acts 15:18.

Not only do these quaint birds nave a God-given ability to build dome-shaped playhouses, or bowers, but other types are also made by some of them. For instance, the one called the golden finds a dead stalk out in the open that is six or seven feet high. To its sides he adds twigs and sticks decorated with colored objects. No walkways (runs) are involved, but he may add shorter towers close by, carefully clearing the ground around all of them.

The MacGregor also makes his bower around an upright stick, but his is more elaborate than the golden's. He adds a patio at the base enclosed by a circle of pebbles in which he displays additional bright items. Another species, the gardener, builds a cone-shaped playhouse with a moss-covered court on which he places flowers and fruits, which he replaces daily.

Another species, the golden-crested, finds a tree fern with its nice umbrella top. He interlaces sticks several feet high around this fern, forming a fence. Attractive objects are attached to its whole length, and a patio goes with this model as well. On it he usually places three neat mounds of fruit, each pile a different color.

Why do the bowerbirds build these strange playhouses? For one purpose only-each wants to show his work of art to a female bird, hoping she will be attracted to it and agree to be his mate. So, having completed his project, he flies to a nearby limb and pours forth song after song, hoping a curious female will come to investigate. When one does come he becomes greatly excited, flies to the ground, perhaps picking up a berry and offering it to her. Then to attract her to the bower, he struts proudly through the run or around, the patio, wings outstretched to show off his bright colors. Outside the run he hops around and sometimes jumps clear over his bower to impress her.. But, in spite of this display, if she isn't charmed she flies away, and he returns to the tree limb to invite another female. Strangely, when the builder has finally attracted a mate, they both abandon the playhouse and build a nest elsewhere to raise their family.

How great a variety of birds there is! Each one displays the wonderful creation of God. The Bible says of His creation, "Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:11. As we view any part of His creation, it is plain that it is only He alone who could produce these many wonders, and that not one of them "evolved" over millions of years. At His word all were instantly created and given ability to "bring forth after its kind." Thus the bower birds today are the same as the ones the Lord God placed on the earth many centuries ago. God's Word, the Bible, is true; do not listen to the false teachings of others.

Travelers of the Bird World

"I know all the fowls of the mountains... the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof." Psa. 50:11,12.

Billions of birds migrate north each spring and south in the autumn. Big birds, little birds, and those in-between make up these numbers-many flying in great flocks and some making the journey alone.

Included among the great companies are the tiny Tennessee warblers, which weigh only about one-half ounce. They travel 3000 miles overland every fall from Canada and the northern United States to Central and South America and then return in the spring. The wood warbler and the blakpoll follow much the same pattern, some making an 86-hour nonstop trip over water to and from South America.

The greatest traveler of all, though, is the Arctic tern. Every year it makes a flight from the top to the bottom of the world and back-a total distance of over 22,000 miles! This pretty tern is about the size of a seagull. It has a forked tail and is completely white, except for a black cap and orange beak, legs and feet. It nests farther north than any other bird, often within 450 miles of the North Pole. There it raises its young during the spring and summer months.

In August or September the terns take off on their great trip. Most of them go to the extreme southern parts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and on beyond to the Antarctic Circle. Sometimes there are millions of them in such flights. Those nesting in Labrador and Greenland always fly across the Atlantic to Europe. From there, as though there were markers showing the way, they turn south to the west coast of Africa. At the foot of Africa they turn again, flying southeast to the Antarctic region. How do they know where to turn each time?

Those nesting in Alaska and Siberia go south along the Pacific Coast to Chile and Argentina. Some stay there while others continue south to the Antarctic to winter on the ice pack. Of course, our winter months are actually summer months in that part of the globe, because the seasons are reversed south of the equator, The birds remain there until April, when they return north.

The tern is mainly a fish eater, although it will not refuse bugs and other insects. While migrating over the ocean, it will drop to the surface from time to time, catch a fish in its specially designed bill, and continue on its way without stopping.

Surely these truly miraculous activities of the Arctic tern impress us with the wonders of God's creation. Over the centuries they remain obedient to the instructions the Creator-God has given them. The Lord desires us to obey His Word, too. He warns: "Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle.... Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about." Psa. 32:9,10. If we know Him as our Savior, our real happiness will be in obeying Him.

Beasts of Field and Forest Know God's Care: Chapter 4

"Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig tree and the vine do yield

their strength." Joel 2:22

Mice and More Mice

"[God] giveth to all life, and breath, and all things." Acts 17:25.

Did you ever find a nest of five or six little helpless mice? They are so tiny and cute! Maybe you wondered what to do with them, knowing that if allowed to live they would become very troublesome. If you disposed of them, the mother mouse, who scampered away when you discovered her nest, would be sad for only a little while, as soon there would be more little ones to take their place.

Mice give birth to about five babies 15 or more times a year. The little ones grow so fast that before they are a month old they begin raising families of their own. If all of these mice survived, within a year's time there would be thousands of mice, just starting with the original pair. Thankfully, this never happens because most of them do not live long.

There are many kinds of mice, but most of us have seen only the house mouse which can be a real nuisance. We might even consider these little fellows, with their beady eyes, long whiskers, pointed snouts, velvet ears and long tails, extremely interesting. But when we realize how much damage they can cause, our main concern becomes that of finding how to get rid of them.

Still, they are God's creatures, and He has provided them with the ability to survive in spite of many enemies. We know that when the world and its inhabitants were formed by the Creator all were at peace with one another. But the sin of Adam and Eve spoiled that perfection and brought hostility and bloodshed among various creatures. Ever since, mice have been the prey of cats and dogs, snakes, owls and hawks, coyotes and many others. They have survived through the centuries only because God has given' them much skill and enabled them to bear many young, as mentioned above.

Not all mice are destructive. Some of the wild ones are important to the maintenance of wild areas. Although seldom seen because they are creatures of the night, there is scarcely a square foot of the deserts and sagebrush areas of America that is not visited by them every night.

Although mice may not be visible to us because of their habits of hiding during the day and feeding at night, they are never hidden from the One who created them. He keeps them under His watchful eye at all times. He says, "Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him?" Jer. 23:24. Isn't it nice to know He is watching over even these little mice as well as over each one of us?

Have you ever applied this Bible verse to yourself: "O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever"? Psa. 107:1. He loves to hear you thank Him for every mercy, but above all for coming into the world to provide salvation for all who trust in Him. Don't forget to thank Him for this wonderful love.

The Mongoose Snake Killers

"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:11.

Over thirty species of mongooses are found in the woodlands of India, Africa, parts of Europe and other places. Most are slightly bigger than a squirrel, with thick, soft brown and black fur. Their small ears are set behind sharp eyes on a pointed head and snout, and their Creator has given them streamlined bodies just right for their life-style. Some species are night hunters while others feed in the morning and evening and rest in the hotter part of the day. They are very curious animals and are easily caught by attracting them with bright lights. They are also fond of shiny or brightly colored objects and, like pack rats, place many such things in their nests.

Although not immune to poison, they don't hesitate to attack vicious snakes. Much like the roadrunner bird, a mongoose, spotting a snake, slowly circles around it, then makes a swift attack. The snake strikes back, but the attacker dodges easily and tempts it again and again. Each time the snake becomes more tired, and finally the mongoose kills it. The Indian and gray mongooses skilled in this, are well known and are often tamed and used by exhibitors on street corners in India to stage fights with deadly cobras. The mongoose is always victorious, and the owner makes a living with the coins tossed to him for his pet's performances.

The diet of these animals includes rats, mice and other small animals, birds, fruit, nuts and insects. Some also eat crabs and other shellfish. The banded mongoose, which is two feet long from its nose to the tip of its tail and dressed in thick brown and tan fur, is one of these. After catching a shellfish it will rise on its hind legs and hurl it to the ground, breaking the shell so it can get at the meat. This species also has an odd way of eating large eggs. Standing upright with a large rock behind it and holding the egg in its front paws, it tosses it backward between its hind legs, smashing it against the rock, then turns around to enjoy the treat!

This little animal is another example of the pleasure the Creator has in the variety of living creatures He has brought into being, as expressed in our opening verse. Those who love the Lord God can share His pleasure by recognizing that all things were created by Him and not listening to the foolish and false claims of some who speak about "evolution." Those who recognize "evolution" show their refusal to believe God's Word, the Bible, which is the only source of all that is true.

Reading the Bible every day helps us to understand the wonders of His ways and to see why He declares: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil." Jer. 29:11. Have you thanked Him for His thoughts of peace and love toward you?

The Marmot (Mountain Whistler)

"For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.... and the wild beasts of the field are Mine." Psa. 50:10-11.

Hikers, enjoying the quiet of the high elevations of many mountains in the western United States, Canada and Alaska, are sometimes startled to hear a sharp whistle nearby. They will usually stop, thinking someone is trying to get their attention. But if they look closely they are pretty sure to discover that the whistler is a mountain marmot. They will probably find it perched on top of the rock slabs, carefully looking them over.

The marmot is about the same size and appearance as a beaver. It is the largest member of the squirrel family. Short-legged and with its flat furry tail stretched out behind, it looks much at ease with its small ears perked up and its dark eyes closely watching the hiker. But if the hiker should start to climb toward this reddish-furred sentinel, a sharper whistle would warn all other marmots to run into their burrows, which it also would do. Soon it would cautiously poke its head out, and if the danger has disappeared, give an appropriate whistle to let its companions know the coast is clear. If, however, the threat is still there, a final shrill whistle will tell the colony to stay in their burrows for a long time. It is not hard to see why they are called whistlers, is it?

Aside from the warning whistles, large groups communicate with one another in whistle-language (actually just calls that sound like whistles), and it is an unforgettable experience to hear this melody on a mountain slope.

Expert excavators, each family digs its own burrow which is from 10 to 25 feet long. It has an entrance under the shelter of a rock which is big enough to insure that no bear or coyote can shove it aside. At the end of each burrow, a den is lined with moss and grass, and space is reserved to store food for use when retiring in the fall before hibernating. Frequently, two burrows lead to one den which provides a safety factor for quick entry and an extra means of escape if necessary. Retiring for the winter with fattened stomachs dragging on the ground, they are well prepared for hibernation until spring—all these things telling of the Creator's care over them.

Usually two to six pups are born in the spring and a few weeks later they begin to wander outside. They stay with their parents through the summer and following winter. The youngsters playfully roll and tumble together as parents watch, and all have a happy relationship, nuzzling each other and stroking with their paws.

We read in the Bible, "O Lord, Thou preservest man and beast. How excellent is Thy loving-kindness, O God!" Psa. 36:6,7. The marmots have no way of knowing of the Creator's watchful care. But we who have been more favored than any other creature are told in God's holy Word, the Bible, of His physical care. We also read of His love that has provided everlasting life for all who accept the Lord Jesus Christ as their own Savior. How thankful we should be for such loving care. Have you thanked Him?

The Strange Wildebeest

"I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by My great power and by My outstretched arm." Jer. 27:5.

Living in great numbers on the plains of Africa, the wildebeest (wyl-duh-beast), about the size of a horse, is commonly known as a gnu (noo). Looking like a combination of several animals, it does resemble a horned horse or even a buffalo in many ways, but is actually a species of antelope.

Its buffalo-like horns, high on a broad head, spread out saddle-like then curve upward with sharp points that make an effective weapon. Long, scraggly hair hangs below its lower jaw and throat, and a mane atop its head and over its shoulders often drops down to meet the lower hair. The rest of its body has only short hair. A long, rope-like tail, bushy on the end, adds to its odd appearance. It would never win a beauty contest.

Being very playful animals, even adults often kick and jump around for no apparent reason. While they look clumsy on their long thin legs, they can run faster than a racehorse.

Gnus are grass eaters. Those that live in East Africa find a good supply of it during the rainy season. When it turns dry they migrate hundreds of miles in search of more, often in groups of hundreds of thousands, accompanied by other friendly animals and bothered by some not so friendly. Usually they remain away until the last of the year, when fresh rains bring green grass back to the plains they originally left. These migrating groups are quick to stampede if something frightens them. Then they move at high speed, galloping great distances and raising huge clouds of dust.

Bulls sometimes challenge one another, dropping to their knees with heads toward each other, locking horns, each trying to push the other over. Failing, they get up, buck and kick with neither of them seeming to be the victor. Suddenly the fight breaks off and they go quietly about their grazing as if nothing had happened.

Females have just one calf each year, which can stand shakily within minutes after birth and by its second day is able to keep up with the herd. The mother takes good care of it, keeping it clean by licking it and protecting it from lions, hyenas and other enemies.

Although millions of animals on Africa's plains may never be seen by man, they are always under the watchful care and provision of the One who created them. More important than that, however, is our Creator's concern for every person on earth. He not only provides for our daily needs, but invites us to know His love and goodness throughout eternity.

Maybe you can recite this verse: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. That is the way to eternal joy and happiness. Can you do more than recite this verse; can you say from your heart, "Yes, I believe; the Lord Jesus Christ is my personal Savior"?

The Nimble Fisher-Marten

"Thou, even Thou, art Lord alone; Thou hast made... the earth, and all things that are therein... and Thou preservest them all." Neh. 9:6.

The fisher-marten, which looks almost like a small fox, lives in the cold, densely wooded areas of the United States—Canadian border. Its soft, dark-brown, almost-black coat, frosted with white hairs is a special prize for trappers. It is greatly sought after by the manufacturers of expensive fur coats.

These animals spend most of their lives in trees, climbing with ease and skill and leaping from branch to branch, sometimes as much as 30 or 40 feet between trees. If attacked they are quite capable of defending themselves by arching their backs, displaying sharp teeth, whipping their tails back and forth, and uttering threatening growls. With their sharp teeth and vicious claws they can usually beat off dogs and even bears. But these experiences are rare since the Creator has made them the swiftest animal of the northern woods and they are seldom caught.

Surprisingly, they are one animal that will challenge a porcupine, flipping it over and exposing its unprotected underpart for the kill. In addition they will eat fish, rabbits, beavers, mice, birds, raccoons and occasionally nuts. Some of this food they get by outwitting trappers, stealing bait from their traps.

The fisher-marten does not hibernate, but when snow is deep it may sleep in its den for long periods of time. It's not too successful when hunting in snow, because its dark color exposes it too much. So it is more inclined under those conditions to lie on a branch and leap on any prey passing by. They are also clever in burrowing through snow to catch mice, kangaroo rats and other rodents that are active below.

Although sometimes making dens in caves or burrows, the mother prefers to find a tree hole high above the ground where she can raise her little ones in the springtime. Blind and without fur when born, their mother nurses them for almost two months and then teaches them to hunt. Within a year they are full grown and go out on their own.

The way of these nimble animals reminds us of the care the Creator shows to all living things. Truly, "The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9. But His mercies are shown to us in ways an animal could never know, for it is His mercy and love that provide redemption and everlasting life to all who trust in Him. This is well expressed in the verse: "For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His name. And His mercy is on them that fear [respect and trust] Him." Luke 1:49,50. Are you among those who trust in Him?

The Ear-Splitting Howlers

"God Himself... formed the earth and made it; He bath established it, He created it not in vain." Isa. 45:18.

Equipped with spider-like limbs, a long tail and a deep-red-colored body the red howler monkey lives in the forests of Central and South America. Like many other monkeys with long tails, they use them as an extra hand, often hanging upside down by them while picking a meal off the underpart of a branch.

Their homes are high in tree tops where they eat leaves, flowers and fruit. The moisture received from these, plus what they get by licking wet leaves, takes care of their thirst so that no other water is needed. This is one of the provisions of the Creator for this interesting animal so that they do not have to come out of the safety of the trees.

Red howlers are not peaceful and continually fight for leadership. However, they do stay together in small groups and move through the trees at a slow pace so all can keep together. In fact, this monkey is not known for speed or activity, but is quite slow in all its habits. That is why the native people call it flojo, which means lazy.

Unusual vocal cords and a large round mouth allow them to make howling noises that pierce the forest and can be heard for a mile or more. Individuals may howl for ne apparent reason, but when the whole troop joins in, the resulting racket is hard to describe, unforgettable to any who have heard it. This howling is done almost every dawn, pausing only so they can listen for answers from others. In howler language they seem to be saying, "Don't cross over into our territory!" But they are ready to howl at any time, especially when there is a full moon. At other times they also purr, grunt or squeal at each other.

A mother, when moving from one spot to another, first waits for her baby to climb onto her back. There it enjoys a piggy-back ride, which must be thrilling as its mother leaps from branch to branch. The little ones, incidentally, are more lively than the adults, having mock battles and squealing with pleasure while the parents nap, which they do a good part of the day.

We enjoy watching monkeys, realizing they have been created in their special way by a wise Creator who also cares for them at all times. But He has not given them a nature such as He has given to us. When we think of His special care for us we have to say, as the Bible does, "Great things doeth He, which we cannot comprehend." Job 37:5.

Animals know nothing of God's love, but the Bible tells us of this wonderful love that goes out to every person. God invites each of us to listen and to come to Him by confessing ourselves to be sinners, believing His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, died on the cross to put these sins away, and accepting Him as Savior. When this is done in true faith, God declares, "[I] will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters." 2 Cor. 6:18. Have you accepted this wonderful invitation?.

The Armor-Plated Pangolin

"Neither is there any creature that is not manifest [visible] in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." Heb. 4:13.

The pangolin lives in Africa and Asia and looks something like a cross between an armadillo and an anteater, with an armored coat of sharp-edged plates from the top of its head to the tip of its long tail. Although its tail is a helpful prop while breaking open termite nests as well as a weapon against attackers, the pangolin's main defense is to roll into a tight ball with only the tough armor exposed. This makes it almost impossible for anything to get at them.

Pangolins usually sleep all day, the small varieties on tree limbs and the larger in deep burrows. God has well equipped them to hunt at night. He has given them sharp beady eyes to penetrate the darkness and a keen sense of smell to lead them to their food, which is almost entirely ants and termites. The larger varieties use their long, strong claws to break into ant hills and cement-like termite nests where the insects live. When their homes are disturbed the ants or termites race furiously about. The pangolin pushes its head into the opening of the nest, flicks out its long, sticky tongue, and laps them up, a quart or more at a time.

Termites and ants bite viciously, but that doesn't bother the pangolin. Special provisions given to him by the Creator include transparent eyelids too tough for these insects to bite and openings in his nostrils and ears that automatically shut to keep the insects out. Even those furious ants that get on his body, looking for tender spots to bite, are flicked off the scales by a shake of his body.

Another interesting thing about these strange animals is that they have no teeth, but keep pebbles in their stomachs which grind all food swallowed into a digestible form, We might wonder why God made this odd creature. Adapting all His creatures to their place in nature is often referred to as "the balance of nature," but it is really "God's order." He has created each for their special place on earth. Even ants and termites are included, and He has arranged for them to recover rapidly from raids and to rebuild quickly their large colonies. At the same time the work of the pangolin keeps such insects from multiplying too fast and doing much damage to forests, buildings and farmer's crops. In the coming millennial time all life will be in harmony and no killing of one another will take place, but meanwhile we see His wisdom in putting all things into proper balance.

But His plans for you are greater than that. The Lord Jesus said to those who loved and trusted Him, "I go to prepare a place for you. And... I will come again, and receive you unto Myself, that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2,3. Does that promise apply to you? It does if you have accepted the Lord Jesus as your Savior.

The Swift Cheetah

"Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways." Rev. 15:3.

The cheetah which lives in Africa, Asia and India is the world's fastest animal, but uses its speed sparingly. When hunting it takes advantage of all available cover and crawls on the ground to get as close as possible to its prey. Then, tail twitching, it suddenly leaps up and runs with lightning speed—up to 70 miles per hour—scarcely touching the ground between its ten-foot leaps. It usually catches its prey in just a few seconds.

The Creator has provided the cheetah with large nostrils and lungs to draw in great quantities of air while running so fast. However, it cannot run at top speed very long, and if it fails to capture its prey promptly, it must give up and rest. Even if it succeeds it needs to rest beside the slain victim for a while, breathing deeply before eating it.

The cheetah has a small head, yellow-green eyes high on its skull, with "tear mark" coloring running from the inner corners of its eyes down its face. Its fur is a very pretty fawn color with nearly round black spots over its whole body and a long, striped tail adding to its beauty. Its long, thin body, mounted on long legs, measures about three feet high at the shoulders and some five feet in length, plus a two-and-a-half foot tail.

Their natural home is in open grasslands. Given excellent eyesight they spot antelopes, elands and other animals from a tree limb, bare hilltop, or even a termite mound. A special God-given feature enables them to go without water for several days.

They have claws on all four feet, but unlike most of the cat -family they cannot retract them. One claw on each front foot is extra sharp, strong and higher than the others, never touching the ground. This is its main weapon and is called a "dewclaw."

Mother cheetahs may have three or more cubs a year which are blue-gray until three months old. The little ones are playful, stalking and pawing one another. In the hot sun they huddle close to their mother for protection from the heat and for safety from enemies. They nurse several months and then, full grown, they are on their own.

Again we are reminded that the One who can rightfully claim (as in our opening Bible verse) that every beast of the forest and field is His, does not neglect these creatures. Through their whole lifetime they are under His watchful care, and He can see them just as He can see each of us, even on the darkest night.

Sin that came into the world is responsible for animals such as the cheetah killing others. But the time is coming when there will be peace again among all the beasts. At that time (called the millennium) those who accept the Lord Jesus Christ now as their Savior will be with Him in heaven, looking down on that peaceful scene. Will you be there?

The Cuddly Koala

"All Thy works shall praise Thee, O Lord.... Thou openest Thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing." Psa. 145:10,16.

The koala, also known as the Australian Bear (although not a bear at all), is considered by many to be the world's most charming wild animal. This is easy to see since it looks just like a live teddy bear. It is also gentle and lovable and is often raised as a household pet.

Although the favorite and most numerous koala is about the size of a raccoon and weighs about ten pounds, there are several species, the smallest not much larger than a rat and the largest close to five feet long. Part of their charm is their inquisitive expression, their small head topped with big tufted ears, their woolly, gray coat and soft arms with which they hug anyone holding them. Their little mouth always seems to be smiling as their round eyes look you over while wrinkling their shiny, black nose.

Baby koalas weigh just a few ounces at birth and spend almost half a year in the mother's pouch, well fed with her rich milk. At the end of that time they climb onto her back and ride there for about a year, holding on with hand-like paws. During this time the mother introduces them to a diet of eucalyptus leaves. It is interesting to see how the Creator has given them wisdom to know to eat from only about a dozen kinds of eucalyptus rather than the 600 varieties that are not suitable as food, with some actually being deadly poisonous. While riding the mother's back the little ones learn which of these are safe, but the ability to tell one from another is really given by the One who created both the trees and the koalas. Actually, in spite of being so lovable they are rather lazy animals. Finding a good tree, they are quite content to stay in it, seldom coming down while tender leaves are still there. Life in these tall trees again shows the special provisions of God for His creatures. Sharp claws and rough padded feet are just right for climbing and holding onto branches when they are feeding. Hind legs that are long and strong also provide support for them while gathering food. Their bodies are so much a part of the tree that it is often difficult to find some of them.

In the hot, dry climate of Australia, what does the koala do for water? Here is another wonder of God's creation, for He has given them special stomachs that not only enable them to get nourishment from the bitter eucalyptus leaves, but also to get from them all the water they need.

The koala does not know of God's care over it, but we can know His care over us. The Bible tells us "the Lord searcheth all the hearts... if thou seek Him He will be found of thee." 1 Chron. 28:9. If you, through His grace, have accepted Him as your Savior, then you can say with the Psalmist, "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits." Psa. 68:19. Can you thank Him like this?

The Likable Desert Fox

"The glory of the Lord shall endure forever: the Lord shall rejoice in His works." Psa. 104:31.

All foxes are pretty, but the little desert kit fox is the most likable of them all. It is only the size of a large house cat and so gentle and full of curiosity that it is sometimes discovered following people who are walking in the desert. If seen it does not run off unless threatened. It makes a lovely picture with large, pointed ears standing alert, button nose sniffing the air, and its round eyes watching everything that's going on.

The desert kit fox has fur which is usually gray with patterns of yellow and black. It has a typical fox's bushy tail, which is about half the length of its 20-inch body. Its short legs are well muscled, and although it cannot run fast for long distances, it can make quick turns to scoot into brush or behind rocks when it's necessary to hide.

When Jesus was on earth He said, "Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head." Matt. 8:20. How sad to think that the One who was the very Creator of the world had no place to lay His head! But He has provided such a place for the foxes.

Dens of the kit fox are usually made by digging a burrow in firm sand or dirt, or under the big roots of a tree, or it may move into one abandoned by another animal. If taking over an abandoned den, the kit fox cleans it out first, then she may have to enlarge it to provide a nest for the soon-to-arrive little ones. These burrows are usually six or seven feet long, dropping steeply from the surface, and they almost always have more than one opening for emergency entrances or exits.

Normally four of five kits are born soon after the den is completed. Then the father fox brings food to the mother while she stays with the babies. Gradually she acquaints them with the outdoors, teaching them to catch rodents, rabbits, lizards, insects and even birds. She also teaches them how to protect themselves from enemies.

The Creator has well adapted these desert citizens to their surroundings with coats blending in with the desert. The soles of their feet are covered with fur, but the toes remain bare so they can dig in the ground and also move freely over desert surfaces. Scorpions abound in such places, and their bite would be deadly to most foxes, but God has given the desert fox an immunity to the poison so it does not affect them at all. He has also given them keen hearing and vision, and an excellent sense of smell, all to help them find food as well as to protect them from their enemies.

The Bible expresses this well: "The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9. But there is more than this in His love for every person who will respond to Him. Of this the Bible also says: "Oh how great is Thy goodness, which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee; which Thou hast wrought for them that trust in Thee." Psa. 31:19. Have you found this happiness of truly trusting in Him?

The Awesome Tiger

"One generation shall praise Thy works to another, and shall declare Thy mighty acts." Psa. 145:4.

A mother tiger (tigress) moves her kitten-size cubs by grasping the loose skin over their necks with her teeth, just like a mother cat does. She is good to her three or four little ones, protecting them from her mate, who would just as soon make a meal of them. When the cubs are two months old she trains them to hunt, to swim and to take care of themselves. When fully grown a male will measure up to nine feet from whiskers to its white tail tip and weigh around 500 pounds. Normally, it will live about 20 years.

Many claim the graceful and lordly tiger to be the grandest of the larger animals, considering the beauty of its muscular body and the way it carries itself. Its large head is topped with rather small ears, its mouth accented with long, white whiskers, and its body covered with splendid black stripes—no two animals having identical markings. A special feature is its amber-colored eyes, so outstanding that a rare and valuable gemstone with a similar design is called "tigereye" and considered a prize by collectors. Long, yellow fangs and powerful limbs, equipped with sharp claws, are its principal weapons for killing its food.

The animals a tiger hunts are seldom aware of being stalked until, with a quick dash and great leap, the tiger hurls itself on them and makes the kill. Tigers prefer to live and hunt alone, but at times, through some kind of tiger communication, two will work together if their quarry is an elephant, water buffalo or some other large animal. After gorging on such a catch, neither of them needs to look for food again for several days.

The Creator has given tigers a well-camouflaged design, whether in the brush or thick grass of swamps and prairies. Although they seldom harm humans their ear-splitting roar can be heard for two miles, frightening the hearer. On some occasions people have been even more terrified to see one suddenly appear "out of nowhere" and then are relieved to have it disappear just as silently and mysteriously.

Though ferocious, the tiger is part of God's creation. In disposing of weak and sickly animals that might spread disease among their companions, it plays an important part in the balance of nature, ordered by the Creator "In whose hand is the soul [life] of every living thing." Job 12:10.

We look with wonder on His care over all living things, but we should consider the special care He gives to mankind. David, the Psalmist, had such thoughts when he said: "Give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world: both low and high, rich and poor, together." Psa. 49:1,2. Have you "given ear," not only to His care, but to His loving invitation to accept everlasting life through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ?

The Tough Zebra

"A wild ass used to the wilderness snuffeth up the wind at her pleasure." Jer. 2:24.

The Bible does not refer to zebras by name but they, being somewhat similar to the wild ass referred to above, also "snuff up the wind" and enjoy their wilderness life, watched over by a kind Creator.

Among all the animals of Africa, the stripes, stiff mane, soft black muzzle and erect ears of the zebra make it outstandingly beautiful, with each zebra's stripe a little different from any other. There are three principal breeds. Most common is the mountain zebra dressed completely in velvety-black and creamy-white stripes, except for a plain-white underpart. Another, the Burchell's is the tallest. Its stripes are irregular and there are none on its legs. The third one is called Grevy's, having the most stripes, but these are narrower and it is not as handsome as the others.

The Creator provided these stripes as a wonderful means of concealing them from their enemies. The stripes blend so well with grass, trees and brush that zebras are not easily seen. Even in broad daylight a group standing together presents such a mixed design of black and white that a hunter is confused and cannot easily pick one out as a potential victim.

These animals have excellent sight, hearing and sense of smell and are seldom caught unawares. Their bands are always headed by a fierce stallion. When a group is attacked they all turn their heels to the enemy. A kick from any of them can break a jaw or cause other injury, convincing the attacker to give up the fight.

Out on the African veldt (prairie) grass is the principal food for many animals, and the Creator has provided an excellent way for some to share it. Zebras eat only the tops of certain tall grasses; after them come the gnus which prefer the middle of the stems; finally the lovely springboks finish it off down to the ground, after which the area is left to grow tall again. This is another evidence of God's special care of all His creatures. Sadly, many zebras are killed by predators when they carelessly separate themselves from the herd. This reminds us of the need of every believer in the Lord Jesus to share his or her life with others who also love the Savior, to help one another from our "adversary the devil, [who] as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8.

The Bible says "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he bath not another to help him up." Eccl. 4:9,10. It is the desire of the Lord that His people help and encourage one another in a happy Christian life. Is this the kind of friends you have?

The Peculiar Aardvark

"Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power... there is nothing too hard for Thee." Jer. 32:17.

The four to six-foot, 150-pound African aardvark is unlike any other creature in the world. Its nearest relative might be a pig; in fact the name aardvark, given to it by the natives, means "earth pig" in their language. But its similarity to a pig is mostly in its long snout, nostrils, brown body and bristly hair. Its long upright ears are more like a donkey's, its tail is something like a kangaroo's, and its arched body is not too different from a hyena's.

There are two things the aardvark is specially good at doing. One is finding termites' nests, which in their part of Africa stand out in the open like concrete mounds. Approaching one, it listens carefully to determine if termites are inside. Hearing their movement, it tears into and opens the mound with powerful claws. Then, with a foot-long sticky tongue it laps them up.

But don't think termites don't fight back... they do, just like ants fight when their nests are entered! Both insects have "soldiers" with sharp mandibles and they attack the intruding aardvark, but find that its skin is so tough they cannot bite through it. In addition, the Creator has provided nostrils and ears that seal tightly when in the insects' nests, so these are protected too.

It is also an expert at digging. Their dens are in tunnels about ten feet long with half a dozen entrances, and this requires lots of digging. No problem! Their strong front legs and sharp claws, kicking the dirt out behind them, go through even hard dirt faster than men with shovels. For the most part they stay in these dens through the day and come out at night to raid ant hills and termite nests, adding other insects and fruit and gourds to their menu when available.

Babies, born in the den, have skin so loose and full of wrinkles that it appears to be several sizes too big, but they soon fill it out. To keep her little ones hidden, the mother moves into a new burrow about once a week. Before long they are taken out to learn the fine points of hunting, and within a year's time they are on their own.

For all the strange appearance of these animals, they represent one of God's creatures and indicate His pleasure in placing such a great variety of life on the earth at the time of its creation. For each creature He has provided what is exactly right for its way of life, and He watches over it all its days.

The Bible tells of something else that brings pleasure to Him: "I know also, my God, that Thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness." 1 Chron. 29:17. Is your life pleasing Him? It can please Him only if you have confessed your sins, have asked the Lord Jesus to forgive and cleanse you, and have accepted Him as your Savior. If you have not done this yet, why not do it right now!

The Big Hippopotamus

"And God made the beast of the earth after his kind... and God saw that it was good." Gen. 1:25.

The hippopotamus, also called the African river horse, is a huge, three to four-ton animal. It grows to 14 feet long and between five and six feet tall. Next to the elephant it is the world's largest land animal. Its enormous head has tiny ears and wicked-looking eyes on each side of its bulging forehead. It is equipped with a sharp-toothed mouth that can cut a crocodile in half with one bite and even bite another hippo viciously when fighting among themselves.

The Creator has provided this water-loving beast with nostrils located so that it can lie underwater with just its nose above the surface. If it goes completely under, valves automatically take over so it can stay down a full five minutes.

Short, thick legs with wide feet having four webbed toes are spaced far apart to support its great weight when on land, but hardly look strong enough for the job. Yet it moves amazingly fast over the ground and can easily outrun a man. It lives in streams, rivers or lakes where mud baths are available. It goes ashore at times to feed on grass and foliage to add to its usual diet of water plants. A mature hippo eats about 200 pounds of vegetation a day.

Mothers usually give birth to one 50 to 70-pound, pink baby a year. You would certainly consider the offspring ugly with its big head and loose skin over rolls of fat, but each mother shows her pet lots of attention, guarding it carefully and letting it frequently ride on top of her head. The little ones nurse for over a year.

Skin about two inches thick, with many wrinkles, attracts irritating insects. Knowing this, a variety of birds ride the hippos' backs to feast on these pests. The hippos seem to realize these riders are helpful and do not scare them away. This is another example of how the Creator often provides two extremely different creatures to benefit one another. A further provision of His care is the means by which hippos avoid sunburn in the hot African weather when out of water. Glands lying just under their bare skin moisten it, much like suntan lotion protects your skin.

As we consider the care the Lord God gives every creature, we are reminded that His loving thoughts toward us are even more wonderful. Animals have only one life, but we have a life after death. While most people hope to be in heaven, many forget that none can enter there with their sins on them and need to follow the Bible's instruction: "prepare to meet thy God." Amos 4:12.

Happily, we read, "Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God." 1 Peter 3:18. Each of us must make this our own personal belief, confessing himself or herself a sinner, thanking Him for so great a salvation, and in faith accepting Him as our Savior. Have von done this?

The Vicious Wolverine: Part 1

"Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law [the Bible]." Psa. 119:18

In the northern woods of the United States as well as in the wooded parts of Canada and Alaska, lives the mean-tempered wolverine. It makes its den in a cave, under a fallen tree, or under an overhanging rock, lining it with leaves, grass and moss.

The wolverine is four feet long, weighs from 30 to 50 pounds, and has a dark-brown shaggy coat with a few light streaks through it. It looks something like a small bear. In fact, because of this and the strong odor it gives off, it is sometimes called a skunk bear. Its frost-resistant fur is used for clothing by people in very cold regions where frost buildup around the face and head of the wearer creates problems. Its good insulating qualities also help retain the wearer's body warmth.

Its black-muzzled, broad round head is armed with a vicious set of tough razor-sharp teeth. It also is armed with short but powerful legs, having four-inch, jet-black paws with long, spike-like ivory claws. In winter its feet are thickly covered with hair, becoming like snowshoes to help it travel over snow.

The wolverine is the scourge of the woods and is considered the most destructive animal. Unusually strong, it is feared by all animals and even avoided by those larger than itself. A meat eater, it will devour almost anything alive or dead and finds much of its food by digging foxes, rabbits and marmots out of their burrows. But if these are not available in winter, it goes after deer or elk weakened and slowed down by deep snow. Its strong jaws can crush the leg bones of a deer, making it defenseless and easy to kill. A wolverine can drag a dead animal more than double its own weight for several miles.

It will even challenge a cougar, wolf or bear that is feasting on captured food. The wolverine will, if hungry, go right up to these larger and more powerful animals, growl and snarl at them, displaying its sharp teeth and claws. Most of these bigger animals could defeat the wolverine if a fight resulted, but to avoid a bad time they will usually leave the food to this fiery challenger. If a fight does result the wolverine does not retreat and as a result will most likely be killed.

This bad-tempered beast reminds us of the warning given in the Bible -"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary [enemy] the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8. It is only by putting our trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and keeping close to His care that we can overcome Satan, the evil one.

The Vicious Wolverine: Part 2

"Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His face continually. Remember His marvelous works that He hath done." 1 Chron. 16:11,12.

The wolverine is not fast, but is determined when hunting. If it cannot overtake its prey quickly it may follow it day after day until the pursued animal is exhausted and finally caught. It is usually a night hunter and when out in daylight it hides quickly when a human is near. In addition to the flesh of animals and birds, it goes after birds' eggs and wild fruit. Honey, too, appeals to it. Ripping beehives open, it is unconcerned about the bees because its long, shaggy hair protects it from stings.

While not challenging people openly, it seems to delight in stealing bait from traps and devouring any animal caught in them. After cleaning out one trap it usually proceeds along the trap line and tears to shreds other captured animals, making their fur worthless.

At other times it breaks into cabins, tearing bars off doors, ripping shingles or sheet metal from roofs, pulling screens off, and smashing windows-anything to get inside. There it does terrific damage, eating available food and destroying what it cannot eat. A mischievous raccoon will occasionally do this, too, but the wolverine is worse, smashing lamps, pulling shelves down, tearing clothes apart, and ruining other things by spraying with its bad-smelling musk. Hasn't sin made it an awful creature!

Each year in May or June two or three young cubs are born in a well-hidden underground den. They are blind at birth, with yellow woolly fur and weigh less than a pound. They are carefully protected by the mother, who nurses them for several weeks and then teaches them hunting skills. While growing up, their playfulness quickly shows their true nature, for they are rough with each other, having mock battles and acting like little wildcats. After a year or more with the mother, they are able to capture game and a few months later go out on their own.

The wolverine is a wicked destroyer and reminds us of the world's greatest enemy-Satan himself. He is a destroyer also, and his object is to capture the hearts of any people foolish enough to be tempted by him, leading them on to a godless and hopeless life. But strength to resist him is expressed in the Bible verse: "What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Rom. 8:31,32.

How good it is, as our opening verse states, to turn to the Lord Jesus as the One to save us from Satan's power, cleanse our sins, and who alone can give strength to resist the attacks of that evil one. If you have not yet done this, why not turn to Him as your Savior today?

The Beautiful Leopard

"Can [a person]... change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil." Jer. 13:23.

Leopards live in parts of Africa, Arabia, China, India and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). They are among the most perfect members of the cat family, graceful and beautiful in their spotted furs. Most beautiful of all is the Asian, or snow leopard of China and Manchuria.

The leopard prefers to hunt alone, its tawny color and spotted pattern blending with the grasses of the prairies. This enables it to crawl through brush undetected by its intended victims. Fiercer than a lion and more cunning than a tiger, with its muscular body, strong limbs and jaws it can carry in its mouth an animal weighing half as much as itself. Holding tightly to its prey, it is strong enough to leap five feet to a tree limb and continue upward as much as 25 feet before feasting on it and leaving what it cannot eat for a later meal.

The Creator has provided it with excellent sight, smell and hearing. It is extremely patient in hunting impalas, antelopes, rabbits, etc. Selecting a victim, it may watch it for an hour or more before beginning its stalk. Then it creeps toward it until after making a swift final dash and big leap, the catch is made. At other times it may stretch out on a big limb over a game trail, entirely motionless, until something comes along, then it jumps down and takes its prize. If nothing comes by it may take a nap while up there. Killing of other animals seems cruel, but these are usually weak or sickly ones, and removing them from a herd is really beneficial to all.

Kittens are born in a cave, hollow tree, or den underneath a big rock, and the mother has the responsibility of feeding and raising them. After four months she teaches them to hunt and to take care of themselves. About two months later they leave and are on their own, probably never having seen their father.

The question asked at the heading of this article has only one answer: a person can neither change the color of his skin, nor can the leopard alter his spots. The remainder of the verse says, in effect, if you could change your skin or the leopard change his spots, then you could also change from being sinful to being good. But the Bible tells us "there is none that doeth good" and that "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Rom. 3:12,23.

How then can we have these sins taken care of so that God will accept us? This is a most important question, and the answer is only found in the Bible: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9. This is possible because Christ died for the sins of all who accept Him as their Savior. Believing on Him is called being "born again," and everyone with this new life belongs to God as His child and is assured of spending eternity in heaven. Do you have this assurance?

"Spiky Pig" the Porcupine

The Porcupine "Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and maketh us wiser than the fowls of heaven?" Job 35:11.

A three-foot-long porcupine suddenly appears in a quiet wooded area, moving noisily through dry leaves and underbrush, apparently unconcerned about the racket it is making. It has little to worry about, being safer from attack than just about any other animal and not even needing to run from a bear or a mountain lion.

Why does it feel so bold? Because it is covered from the top of its head to the end of its eight-inch tail with thousands of needle-pointed quills -some are big and hollow, some are smaller-that often rattle as it walks.

Many a dog has learned it is unwise to bother a porcupine. If a porcupine senses danger it turns its back, flares its quills and greets the attacker with a hard slap of its tail, leaving a number of barbed quills in the attacker's face and body. These quills can only be pulled out from dogs or cats by people. When an animal tries to remove them with its paws, they go in deeper and it usually means eventual death, especially when they are in the face or mouth. Incidentally, these quills are not "thrown" as some people think.

Their homes are often in a hollow log or a burrow under rocks where they are snug and warm in cold weather and where their little ones are born. The babies arrive with a full supply of quills which are soft and flexible, but soon harden. The mother raises them with no help from the father. Strangely, she can push these little ones or help them climb a tree without herself getting stuck by their quills.

Their main food is the tender tissue under the bark of trees. They may sit in the fork of a tree all day or out on the branches to enjoy buds, leaves and tender twigs. They also like various plants, roots, fruits and berries. Always hungry for salt, they break into cabins, eating all the butter they can find and any other salty food. They become troublesome by gnawing paddles, ax handles, leather, or anything stained with perspiration, because these have a salty flavor.

These odd animals are another example of the Creator's ways, giving them a quiet and peaceful life, but with ample means of protection against any who would harm them. In many ways this is an example of His love and care over us as well. The Bible encourages us to "lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." 1 Tim. 2:2. It is good to follow this instruction.

But, instead of wanting to "get even" with those who oppose us, as the porcupine does, we should tell them of God's love and let them know that God wants them to be saved and come to Him through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Try doing this some time. You may be happily rewarded.

The Tough Badger

"And he made a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers' skins above that." Ex. 36:19.

The verse refers to the tabernacle Moses was told to build as a place of worship for the Lord's people in the wilderness. The heavy, dense fur of the badger was a shield that protected everything inside the tabernacle from storms and severe weather.

Badgers are 20-pound animals, with short legs and black feet. They are tough and strong, about 30 inches long with short bushy tails. They are covered with a silver-gray fur. It is actually a mixture of white, black and brown. A single hair may have all three colors. Its cheeks and alert ears are white with dark stripes, and its dark snout and forehead have a white stripe from the nose to the neck. It is this white marking (badge) on the face that gives these animals their name.

Badgers are residents of deserts, mountains and treeless country. Being night hunters, their food includes rodents, rabbits, birds, snakes (including rattlers), lizards and fish. Coming across a bee hive, they rip it open for the honey, without worrying about the bees which cannot sting through their dense fur.

The Creator has provided many means of protection for badgers. For instance, if unable to otherwise escape an enemy, it can dig itself completely underground in less than a minute with its sharp claw. But actually they have few enemies to fear, for although timid, they are quite capable of routing dogs or coyotes with their claws and powerful teeth. Also being low to the ground, an attacker cannot get at their throats without itself being bitten first.

In the cold of winter, they sleep in a den some 25 feet from their runway entrance, sometimes even sharing their den with a fox.

The two furry babies, born in the den in the spring, are blind for a month or more. The mother raises the playful youngsters, training them to hunt and care for themselves. By summer's end they leave her.

The activities of these interesting animals are beneficial. Besides eating destructive rodents, even their digging loosens the soil, making it water-absorbent which helps to prevent floods.

When underground, badgers know that they are hidden from everything. But what they can't know is that an all-wise Creator sees them, for His eyes are always on every living thing.

The Bible tells us also, "For His eyes are upon the ways of man, and He seeth all his goings. There is no darkness... where the workers of iniquity [sin] may hide themselves." Job 34:21,22. Rather than foolishly trying to hide from God, He invites everyone to come with an open heart to Him, saying, "Those that seek Me early shall find Me" (Prov. 8:17), and "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise." Prov. 12:15. In which of these groups are you?

The World’s Laziest Animal

"He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster." Prov. 18:9.

Sloths, which live in the tropics of Central and South America, are among the strangest of all animals. A full-grown one is about two feet long, having a short, round head and small, dull eyes. Its face is bare, its ears hardly visible, and its neck-the same diameter as its head -just merges into its body without any real shape of its own. Some species can turn their heads almost completely around without moving their bodies, which suits them just fine, because then they don't have to exert themselves as much. They are so lazy that sometimes they stay in the same spot all day!

No wonder the Bible doesn't have anything good to say about them. In fact, as in our opening verse, the Bible speaks in many places of how shameful it is for people to be like these lazy creatures. One verse tells us "Be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises." Heb. 6:12. Perhaps the Creator allowed the sloth to have its bad habits to give us an example of what is displeasing to Him. Instead of slothfulness, we are instructed, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might [with all your energy]." Eccl. 9:10. The Bible further says, "Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger." Prov. 19:15.

The sloth lives among the trees of the tropics where it hangs upside down most of the time with three sharp claws on each long leg gripping a leafy limb. There it is quite content to spend the day while it slowly munches on leaves, shoots or fruit within its reach. Because it seldom moves, it is well hidden from its enemies, since it looks like a bundle of leaves caught on a fork of the tree. It sleeps this way, too.

Only about once a week does it get any exercise. Then it climbs slowly down the tree trunk to the ground where it moves clumsily about, because its long, curved claws interfere with walking. It doesn't stay down very long and soon climbs back to its lazy way of life.

Unlike most other animals, the sloth never bathes and doesn't bother to groom itself. As a result its fur becomes the home of thousands of bugs, ticks, and moths and it even has mossy-like, tiny green plants growing on its back. All of this is a picture to us of how bad habits and laziness are used by Satan to make the ugly stains of sin that leave their mark on many people. But, thank the Lord, all who come to the Lord Jesus Christ can be washed from their sins. The Psalmist prayed, "Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." Psa. 51:7. In 1 John we read the wonderful message; "The blood of Jesus Christ [God's] Son cleanseth us from all sin," and "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (chapter 1, verses 7 and 9).

Altogether, the sloth is a sad example of the result of laziness. How much better it is to please the Lord by obeying His request: "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." Col. 3:23.

The Clever Baboon

"Every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks." 2 Chron. 9:21

Solomon apparently maintained a zoo near his palace and made apes a part of it. We do not know what species of apes they were, but quite possibly they included baboons.

There are several kinds of baboons in South Africa, most of them having dog-like faces, but some are called "pig face" because they resemble that animal. They weigh about fifty pounds and all of them have large canine teeth and cheek pouches in which they can store food. They are noisy and quarrelsome creatures and sometimes viciously attack humans.

A visitor in South Africa recounted taking a walk into the woods and when at some distance from the village suddenly found a group of baboons surrounding him, causing him to fear for his life. Fortunately, on the seldom-used road, a car appeared and the animals fled.

The members of this ape family live in community fashion and have a highly developed social system, with a dominant leader-all others taking their places in a well-defined "pecking order."

Making frequent raids on farmers' crops, they are a serious pest. In one area the farmers kept such close watch with their guns that the baboons discontinued coming into the orchards as a group. Yet trees continued to be stripped of fruit, much to the dismay of the farmers.

Finally they discovered what was taking place. A group of baboons was found, forming a line concealed in brush adjoining the orchard. The leader, making sure he was not being watched, would silently approach a tree alone, pluck some fruit and hurry with it to the first baboon in line. The fruit was then passed from animal to animal and put in a pile at the far end until sufficient was gathered for them all to get together for a feast. However, they seemed to know that this pleasant little game might be interrupted, so, as the first of the fruit reached them, each baboon took a bite and stored it in his cheek pouch without eating it. It was clear they figured that if chased away they would at least be assured of one meal.

This animal also has a quality that researchers wonder about: in periods of drought, when other animals are dying of thirst, the baboons somehow find water and survive.

Like every animal of God's creation this unusual one has been given instincts that enable it to flourish in harsh environments. The Psalmist said: "I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember Thy wonders of old... Thou art the God that doest wonders: Thou hast declared Thy strength among the people." Psa. 77:11,14.

We are responsible to recognize the wonders of God in creation, for this is one way in which He has "declared His strength among the people." But, oh, how much more important to know Him as the Savior God, who gave His Son "to be the propitiation for our sins." 1 John 4:10. Are you among those who own His Son as your personal Lord and Savior?

The Stealthy Bobcat

"Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind... [every] beast of the earth after his kind." Gen. 1:24.

Bobcats live in southern Canada, in many places in the United States, and as far south as lower Mexico. They are just as much at home in deserts and sagebrush as they are in forests or on rocky hillsides. Shy and stealthy, it is their sharp hearing that warns them to hide quickly from danger, and being well camouflaged they are difficult to spot. However, hikers have sometimes been startled to see one standing on a nearby log, looking them over and then suddenly disappearing.

Bobcats are often confused with lynx or wildcats. Although resembling one another, each is a separate species of its own. The bobcat is a pretty animal, looking much like a large, domestic cat that has escaped from its owner's home. But its black, stubby tail and buff-colored fur, patterned with black markings over its body and a solid black streak running the length of its spine, immediately show it to be something else. A full-grown, 30-pound male stands about 20 inches high and is almost three feet long.

The bobcat is a wonderful hunter. It stalks its victim by creeping a few inches at a time on its soft paws with its body pressed to the ground. It patiently waits until it is near enough to make a lightning dash and then pounces on its victim. Rabbits are a favorite food, and farmers appreciate the bobcat's help in keeping this crop spoiler under control. It also kills rats, mice, gophers, etc. Unwary birds are frequently caught, as well as turtles, and even fish are scooped out of a shallow pool. Although its piercing howls at night have frightened many a camper, the bobcat does not attack humans.

These outdoor cats are careful to keep themselves clean, licking their fur frequently and rubbing their heads with moist paws. In the wintertime their fur is thick and heavy, but it thins in the summer. This reminds us of the Creator's kindness to the many animals He has established in the world, caring for their needs whatever the season may be. And this care of such animals reminds us, too, of His sure promise to those who love Him: "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper." Heb. 13:5,6.

The mother prepares for her expected young (three or four in a litter) by searching for a hidden den or a cave and lining the floor with soft materials. The mother does all the work alone, including gathering food and training. When the kittens are born they are blind for nine or ten days. At three months she teaches them to find their own food, and at nine months they leave to start independent lives.

How interesting it is to see how the Lord God cares for all the wild creatures He has placed on the earth. But of more importance is knowing that in His love to every man, woman, boy and girl, He not only watches over us even more carefully, but He invites us to take all our cares to Him as well. "Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7.

The White-Tailed Ground Squirrel

"Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth?" Job 35:11

Many kinds of ground squirrels are found in the desert. Most of them are harmless and curious and fun to watch. One of these is called the "white tail," or "antelope chipmunk" and is often mistaken for a true chipmunk. But its black and white stripes go only to its shoulders, whereas the chipmunk's stripes go to the tip of its nose.

The white tail is easily identified as it scampers along with its white-backed tail held over its back. It spends all its time gathering seeds and nuts, stuffing them into its cheek pouches and then carrying this food to store in its den. It also eats parts of cactus and yucca plants, as well as beetles, crickets and other insects.

It is amazing to see the white tail climb a spine-covered cactus, stuff its pouches with seeds, turn around, and go back down head-first to the ground, never getting a scratch or prick from the sharp needles. How can it possibly do this? This ability is, of course, one of the special features given to it by its Creator, who wisely provides for every need of all and who "doeth great things and unsearchable; marvelous things without number." Job 5:9. Wherever we see the things He has created we must agree that they are "unsearchable and marvelous."

Like most other ground squirrels the white tail lives in the rocky foothills. It enjoys a happy family life and seems to be one of the truly happy desert residents. The entrance to its den is kept clean, and the well-shaped hole is always hidden under a boulder or the covering branches of a bush. It has other entrances, too, hidden and ready for any emergency, since rattlers, coyotes, hawks and many other enemies are constant threats to them.

In its underground den it builds a nest lined with feathers, grass and other soft materials. There are normally at least six babies and usually a dozen or more born each spring. These are nursed by their mother until they are strong enough for the outside world. Once outside, the little ones are great fun to watch...so full of life and games as they play together. But their mother keeps a sharp eye on them to see that they do not wander from her hidden shelter. The family stays together until the young ones are big enough to care for themselves. Then they soon make nests of their own where they have new families.

As part of the wonders of God's creation, these little animals remind us that "the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord." Psa. 33:5. Speaking of that goodness the Psalmist also said: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Psa. 23:6.

Have you thanked Him for His goodness to you? He has promised that you, too, may live in His heavenly home for all eternity if you admit that you are a needy sinner and accept Him as your Savior.

The Tricky Coati

"My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: He that keepeth thee will not slumber." Psa. 121:2,3.

The coati and its close relative, the coatimundi, are happy animals that look very much like raccoons. They are usually reddish-brown in color with white throats, and their mask-like faces are spotted black and white. Their long tails have eight pretty, black rings, and their snouts are long and flexible-just right for rooting in the soil for grubs and worms. They have long legs equipped with sharp, strong claws, which allow them to dig in soil too tough for their snouts and to tear apart decayed logs to reach insects that live inside them.

All of these features were given to the coatis by the Lord God at the time He created them. He designed them, as He has all living things, in ways just exactly right to meet their needs. The creator made all things perfect the first time and left nothing to develop gradually by itself. "And God saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good." Gen. 1:31.

Coatis enjoy the high, forested mountains of Central and South America, Mexico and a few areas of southern United States. They live in rough nests in tree branches or in small caves. Living in family groups, the little ones, although playful and curious, are watched carefully by their mothers.

As they hunt for food they travel in groups, led by a mother. Behind her come the children, and at the end of the line another mother follows. Should a youngster wander away, an adult immediately hauls it back in line. If an adult senses danger, a warning is given quickly to freeze, scramble up a tree, or hide in the bushes, depending on the danger. These cute animals make many different kinds of sounds, such as growling, barking, hissing, etc. These sounds, along with body movements, all have their own meaning and are their way of talking to each other.

Although some coatis do hunt in the daylight, most are active only at night and hide during the day. One thing is certain; no matter when they hide during the day or night, they are always under the watchful care of their Creator, of whom it is written: "The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth." 2 Chron. 16:9.

Are you happy to know He is watching you, too? Job asked, "Doth not He see my ways, and count all my steps?" Job 31:4. He certainly does, as we read in Prov. 15:3, "The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." He delights to care for and watch over those who love Him, and He enjoys finding them walking in ways that are pleasing to Him.

The Giant Panda

"Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world." Acts 15:18.

There are two varieties of panda, but they are very different from each other. The lesser panda is small and raccoon-like with long reddish-brown fur and a long, ringed tail. Its home is in the Himalaya Mountains near India. The more interesting panda that looks like a big stuffed toy and seems like a cross between a bear and a raccoon is the giant or great panda. It also lives in the high Himalayas along the border of China and Tibet.

The giant panda has a round white head, charmingly set off with jet-black ears and nose and black circles around its eyes which look like they are painted on. This unusual black and white animal is loved by animal lovers everywhere. When fully grown it is almost five feet long and two feet high at the shoulder-about the size of a small bear, with just a stump of a tail. The cubs are especially cute and cuddly, and they are carefully watched by their mothers.

About 20 kinds of bamboo can serve as food for them, but they are choosy and prefer just five of them. They seem to know which parts of these plants have the most food value. At certain times of the year they eat just the leaves and stalks and at other seasons only the plant stems. Having big appetites, they munch on about 100 pounds of bamboo every day. The Creator has given them big, strong jaws and huge molar teeth especially adapted for this kind of food.

Living in such a small area in this remote part of the world and always hiding when people' approach, these panda are not seen in the wild very often. The Chinese people love them and are concerned because they may soon become extinct, since the forests are being thinned out by people moving into them as well as by plant diseases killing many of the trees.

In 1972 when the Chinese wanted to send a complimentary gift to the President of the United States, they selected a pair of these animals, which are now living in the Washington, D.C. zoo. To help preserve these lovable animals, arrangements are being made to place more of them in zoos in other cities as well, where it is hoped they will multiply and so add to their numbers.

Although most people did not know about the great panda until recently, it has always been under the watchful care of its Creator, as the opening verse of this article tells us. Another Bible verse says: "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest [displayed] in His sight." Heb. 4:13.

If God thinks about and cares for animals far off in remote mountains, just think how much more He must care for you. This care is included in His great love to this world in sending His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, into the world to "give His life a ransom for many." Matt. 20:28. All who come to Him as needy sinners, sorry for their sins, and accept Him as their Savior are made His very own forever. If you have not done this yet, He invites you to come to Him today.

The Tough Grizzly

"And David said... there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of [my father's] flock: and I went out... and... slew both the lion and the bear." 1 Sam. 17:34-36.

What a good shepherd David was to risk his life for a lamb! This reminds us of the Lord Jesus who said, "I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep." John 10:11. David was spared from being killed, but the Lord Jesus willingly gave His life for His sheep (those who know Him as their Savior).

An 800-pound, 8-foot grizzly bear is a vicious animal. It is found mostly in Montana's Glacier National Park, Wyoming's Yellowstone Park, western Canada and Alaska. Its large body and head, six-inch claws at the end of short, strong legs, and sharp teeth all make it an animal to stay far away from. But it does not start life that way. Born while its mother is hibernating, it weighs less than a pound and is hairless and blind. Two or three months later, leaving the winter den with its mother, it will be about the size of a raccoon. By the end of summer it will be about as big as a collie dog.

Once they are old enough to go outside the den, cubs are full of fun, wrestling with each other, sliding in the snow, and climbing slender trees until they bend or break with their weight. But it is not only the cubs that like to play. Big grizzlies will also slide down snow slopes, climb back up and slide down again, just for the fun of it. Sometimes they tumble and roll down grassy hillsides in the same way.

By the end of summer the grizzlies are fat and lazy, but not too lazy to prepare a den in a rocky hillside or under the roots of a big tree. There they make a bed of soft tree branches, which they haw brought in with their mouths, sometimes lining the den with grass as well. All grizzlies in a given area enter their dens on the same day, and all dens face toward the north. Do you suppose they get together and plan this? No, of course not. These are God-given instincts. He knows just when they should retire for the winter. He also knows that before winter is actually over there will be short warm spells, causing the snow on southern slopes to melt a little. A bear waking up and hearing this trickle of water would leave its den too soon and be in difficulty with no food ready for it. But the short warm spells do not affect the cold northern slopes, and the bears remain undisturbed. How wisely the Creator takes care of even grizzlies!

Coming out after five months' sleep, thin and hungry, they immediately search for food. This first meal might be a large animal that died during the winter, its body preserved by the cold. But they are not particular. Small rodents, fish, ants, berries, etc. are welcome. Cow parsnips are a favorite, and hikers are warned to stay away from mountain slopes where these grow... grizzlies do not like intruders!

The Lord Jesus, as Creator, never neglects any of His creatures, small or great. But His special care over men, women, boys and girls includes this promise to those who love Him: "I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish." John 10:28. Why would anyone turn away from such love?

The Long-Lived Orangutan

"All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds." 1 Cor. 14:39.

The rain forests of Sumatra and Borneo are the primary homelands of the big orangutans. When fully grown they may weigh as much as 200 pounds and stand over four feet tall. Known to live as long as 50 years, they are often called by the natives "the old man of the woods." In fact their name in the Malay language means "person of the forest." They are powerful and fierce fighters if attacked. However, in captivity young orangutans are easily tamed and taught tricks for performances in zoos and animal shows.

By man's standards these are really ugly beasts, with their long, orange-colored hairy arms which almost reach to the ground even when they are standing upright. They also have large heads but very small ears and bare faces and hands. These apes are awkward when "walking," often swinging along on their arms that are held like crutches with their knuckles on the ground. They are much more at home in trees, the style of life for which the Creator designed them. There the long arms are helpful in swinging from branch to branch, often for great distances. Actually most of their time is spent high in treetops.

Unlike some other apes, orangutans are not very friendly, preferring to be left alone and yet letting others know they are around by grumbling and bellowing loudly. However, family members are affectionate to one another and particularly to the one baby that is usually born each year. Entirely helpless when born, it is fondly cradled in its mother's arms and for the first two years of its life clings to her back when traveling.

While keeping to themselves, they nonetheless maintain groups, spending most of the day gathering food to satisfy their big appetites. Every evening a new nest is made by bending branches together and adding leaves for a lining. The bent limbs are grasped with fingers and toes which hold on tightly even while sleeping. Some of these nests are as high as 40 feet above the ground and four feet across! The ability to do this is the result of God-given instincts. Additional nests for afternoon naps are often made, and they even pull big leaves over themselves if it is raining. Instinct has also taught them to hold leafy branches over their heads, like umbrellas, when in a rainstorm while away from their nests.

Because they look somewhat like humans and perform clever things, it is claimed by some people that mankind came from such apes in a process called "evolution." But there are many differences. They are strictly of the ape family and all people are of the human family, just as God created them, separate and apart from each other. Look again at the opening Bible verse.

The Lord Jesus did not die for apes, but He did in great love die for the sins of all people who put their trust in Him as their Savior. Have you done this?

America’s Lion, the Cougar

"All Thy works shall praise Thee, O Lord; and Thy saints shall bless Thee." Psa. 145:10

African lions do not live in America except in zoos. America's lion is the cougar, which looks similar to an African female lion and is at home in South, Central and North America. It is often called a mountain lion as well as puma, catamount, panther and other names.

A full-grown cougar is about five feet long, plus its three-foot furry tail. It is an example of the Creator's handiwork in its handsome appearance and ability to adapt to a great variety of living places. Some make their homes in mountains and others in forests, swamps, jungles and even in deserts.

Like a huge pussy cat, and purring like one when happy, the cougar has soft, dense fur, usually buff colored but sometimes reddish, silver-gray or even almost black. It has a pretty head with cat-like whiskers, sharp teeth, clear yellow eyes and upright ears. Its lithe and flexible body is supported by strong legs with large padded paws equipped with claws, usually hidden, but coming out as needle-sharp weapons when fighting. The cougar is lord of its surroundings, fearing nothing but hunting dogs, which chase it into a tree top where it is easily shot.

The Creator has given cougars excellent sight and hearing. Their food includes deer, mountain sheep, rabbits, coyotes, birds, rodents and an occasional fish. They avoid humans, but have been known to kill people, probably when desperate for food. Males and females live solitary lives and do not hunt together. Wandering over vast areas, they use rocky ledges for lookouts or hide on a limb over a game trail, leaping down on a passing victim.

In the springtime from one to five little cubs are born and are blind for about ten days. Only a few inches long they are as cute and playful as domestic kittens. Their yellowish fur is decorated with black spots which later disappear. The mother trains them for about a year and then leaves them on their own.

It is sad that the food supply of such a beautiful creature requires the death of others. When the Lord God created the animals all were at peace with each other and He "saw that it was good." But Adam's sin brought death with it, as the Bible verse states: "By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin" (Rom. 5:12)-death not only to man, but to every creature in the world.

But the time is coming (the millennium) when all animals will again live peacefully with each other. Before that time all who know the Lord Jesus as their Savior will be taken to heaven, and God's judgment will fall on those who have refused Him. How important it is to accept Him as your Savior and Lord now, before it is too late. Those taken to heaven will look down on a peaceful world, "wherein dwelleth righteousness." Have you taken this important step of accepting Him as your Savior?

The So-Called Flying Lemur

"These wait all upon Thee; that Thou mayest give them their meat in due season." Psa. 104:27.

Although called a flying lemur, the cat-sized animal we will learn about today is not really part of the lemur family, but is properly called a colugo. It lives in the forests of southeast Asia where it spends most of its life high in the trees. It is a pretty animal with brownish gray fur, or light brown. spotted with white. As the Creator has done for so many animals and birds, the colugo has been provided with good coloring for concealment in the trees.

Colugos are night workers. Resting in daylight, some curl up in holes in tree trunks, and others hang from branches or big palm leaves, gripping them firmly with sharp curved claws. They never seem to have to drink water, securing all the moisture they need either from their food or by licking rain water from leaves.

The colugo has a long tail and, like some monkeys, it can curl it tightly around a tree limb so it can use both hands while eating leaves or fruit, or keep it safe while asleep.

This is the largest of all "flying" mammals. Its long, slender, flexible underbody is covered by loose skin that stretches tight when its legs are spread apart, providing a flat, kite-like area. In this way they travel from tree to tree, gliding swiftly as much as 200 feet. Of course they cannot actually fly, but they appear to as they make frequent trips between trees. In gliding they always land lower on the tree they are going to than the point from which they take off. Since they have to be able to climb trunks and cling to branches, the Creator has given them strong legs and sharp claws.

While gliding through the air, the colugo's tail acts as a rudder as it leans its body from one side to another to keep a true course. When preparing to land, its tail lifts high, acting as a brake; at the same time it raises the front of its body so it comes in for a perfect landing.

Females have just one baby a year. A short while after birth the baby learns to cling to the soft silky fur under its mother's stomach and to hang on tightly, upside down, when she glides between trees.

These rather cute animals live in a warm climate and do not need to store food as some others do. They seem happy, rarely fighting, innocently unaware of the way their Creator, the Lord God, cares for them. But boys and girls, as well as adults, are taught in the Bible that He is the loving provider to us of every good and perfect gift. Above all, He has given the gift of the Lord Jesus as Savior to any who will believe on Him. Animals cannot give thanks, but we have no excuse for not doing so, as the Bible verse says: "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Eph. 5:20. Don't forget to give thanks to God.

At Home in the Waters: Chapter 5

"Happy is he... whose hope is in the Lord his God: which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is." Psa. 146:5,6.

Star of the Sea

"For the Lord is a great God.... The sea is His, and He made it." Psa. 95:3,5.

Most people who live near ocean shores are familiar with starfish (or sea stars, as they are more properly called) for they are often seen dead on the shore. The more common starfish are colored bright orange, red or brown. They are a true star shape, with five tapered arms extending out to rounded points from the center. But there are many varieties, some with as many as 50 spidery arms. All are completely covered with armor-like shells.

A very colorful variety is the brittle star which moves rapidly through the water by thrashing its arms vigorously. This variety got its name because its brittle arms are easily shattered by crabs and large fish that then eat the broken pieces.

With few other exceptions starfish appear to be stationary or just moving gently with the current. But the Creator did not leave them without a means of travel. Using suction cups (or pads) on the underside of each arm, they pull themselves an inch at a time over the ocean bottom, onto a rock, a piling, or other object.

It is with these sensitive arms and the suction cups that starfish probe for and capture food. When a shellfish, such as a clam or oyster, is found, the suction cups of one arm grasp it firmly on one side and another arm clings to the other side. Then a contest takes place-the clam pulling its two shell halves tightly together and the starfish trying to pull them apart. In the end it is always a hopeless battle for the shellfish, as its enemy will relentlessly pull on the two sides for an hour or more, until the victim has no more strength left to resist. When the shells finally open, the starfish pulls its stomach (located on its underside) over the clam or oyster, surrounding it, and slowly digests it.

Fishermen, angry because so many shellfish were being eaten by these armored pirates, used to pull them from the water, tear off their arms, and throw them back to die in the ocean. What they did not know was that such pieces do not die-each piece soon becomes another full-grown starfish! When the fishermen finally discovered that they were actually adding to the population of these creatures, they immediately discontinued the practice!

Starfish are among the lower forms of life, without benefit of an intellect. We do not expect them to be aware that a divine Creator rules over the sea and its inhabitants. Our opening verse reminds us that this is so, and another Bible verse says, "The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9.

We, who have been given the ability to know of Him, His wonderful works, and His great love to us, are responsible to act on God's Word expressed by the Psalmist: "Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!" Psa. 107:8. Have you ever done this?

The Playful Seal

"Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His face continually. Remember His marvelous works that He bath done. " 1 Chron. 16:11,12.

Seals live both in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, mostly in cold northern waters, but many migrate thousands of miles south in the winter. Others never go north, but are quite content to remain yearlong in warm southern climates.

A mother seal usually has just one pup a year, born on land because it cannot swim until she teaches it.

She nurses it for about four months, and during this time she frequently leaves it for several days while she goes after her own food shrimp, clams, fish and other seafood. At these times her pup joins hundreds like itself, all temporarily left alone. When she returns she barks loudly and a number of these youngsters come to her. But she is only interested in her own, and the Creator has given her the ability to pick it out by its individual odor and its tiny bark which she recognizes. Its hunger is soon satisfied with her rich, nourishing milk.

The first three weeks of the gray seal's life are very dangerous. Hunters kill them in great numbers for their soft, wooly, pure-white coat. But each year thousands more replace them.

The Creator has provided seals with nostrils and ear openings that close automatically when they go below the surface as well as special lids that protect their eyes underwater. They don't even need to think about these things. It all happens automatically.

In ice-covered waters they make air vents with their sharp teeth. They poke their heads through the vents for fresh air about every 15 minutes. They also crawl out of the same hole to rest occasionally. But this is dangerous since an Eskimo or a polar bear, may be waiting to catch them when they show up.

A seal is graceful in the water, but its travel on land is another story. There it has to lift itself up on its webbed flippers, arch its back, push with its hind flippers, and in great jerks move forward. This looks awkward, but they can move fast when necessary. They are considered to be very intelligent and are quick to learn tricks such as balancing a ball on the tip of their nose, leaping out of the water on command, jumping through fiery hoops, etc. They are always popular actors at aquariums.

These creatures with such interesting habits are another example of the wonders of God's creation. The Bible gives good counsel when declaring, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth." Eccl. 12:1. Pay no attention to the false teachings of evolution, but rather be as the Psalmist who did not hesitate to say, "I will show forth all Thy marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in Thee." Psa. 9:1.2.

Anemones Beautiful but Deadly: Part 1

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8.

Sea anemones, like the flowers after which they are named, are usually extremely beautiful in their many colors. However, they are not flowers but marine animals, although lacking most features of the animals with which we are familiar. Usually they anchor themselves to a spot on the ocean floor, sometimes alone, sometimes in great numbers. The "flowers" are actually tentacles that usually rise upward to make the colorful display but in some species hang downward or spread out flatly.

The sea anemone is really a living electric battery. The tentacles that sprout from its main body and wave about gently in the water to attract small fish are pretty but contain poisonous darts. When a fish touches one of these, the darts shoot out, exploding like a bomb, injecting their poison into the fish so it cannot escape. It is then placed by the tentacle into the anemone's mouth and devoured.

Descriptive names have been given to many of the anemones. The aggregated anemone is common along the Pacific coast, and large, numbers anchor close together on bottom rocks, looking like a choice garden with their many colors. Another, the snakelocks, is colored either pinkish brown or apple green. Its snaky tentacles spread out in every direction. Since it prefers shallow water, they are often exposed to the air at low tide.

Another one in deep water is called the dahlia. It has a round golden base and short white tentacles, similar to the dahlia flower. Some varieties have a brown base and brilliant red tentacles. Either way they are very pretty. The varieties are too numerous to mention here, but illustrations of many are available inmost libraries for those interested.

In spite of the beauty of sea anemones, they remind us of Satan, the enemy of every boy and girl as well as grownups. He takes pleasure in deceiving people with attractive temptations (like the anemone's luring fish), but these only lead those who are deceived by him into sorrow and trouble.

The Bible speaks of this danger in many places, as in our opening verse, and warns us that he and his followers pretend to speak truth, but are really false and deceitful. We are warned that at times he can even make himself appear to be "an angel of light." 2 Cor. 11:13-15. To resist Satan we are instructed to "Put on the whole armor of God." Eph. 6:11. The two most important parts of that armor are "the shield of faith" faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and Protector when we commit our way to Him, and "the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God [the Bible]." Eph. 6:17.

Whenever this armor is used, Satan cannot have his way with us. Have you learned to use it?

Anemones Beautiful but Deadly: Part 2

"Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven [the sky], and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places." Psa. 135:6.

We have already learned of the beautiful but deadly character of sea anemones. But there are some kinds of marine life that get along very nicely with them and are not harmed at all.

One of these is the small, pretty clown fish that is immune to the anemone's poison and lives right within its tentacles, well protected from its enemies. Not only that, but it gets its own food by snatching parts of the anemone's meals right from its mouth!

Another is the anemone shrimp in the waters off Florida. It doesn't look like the shrimps that appear on our dinner plates, but is transparent with delicate white lines on its back and colored dots over most of its body. Like the clown fish, it also makes its home right in the tentacles of the larger anemones, but has entirely different reasons for doing so. Protected from attack by its enemies and immune to the anemone's poison, it attracts passing fish by waving its long white antennae at them. When a fish spots this it moves up close (but out of reach of the anemone). The shrimp then leaps on the fish, picking parasites off its body, providing a tasty meal for itself while relieving the fish of the pests. Some of the fish open their gills wide and the shrimp enters to clean them out, too, going from one side of the fish to the other.

Its work finished, the shrimp returns to the shelter of the anemone and waits for its next customer, while the one it has served swims away, no doubt feeling much better than when it arrived. Many of the large fish serviced this way would quickly gobble up the little shrimp if found anywhere else, but here at its home base among the anemone tentacles it is protected. This is one more example of the Creator's arranging two different creatures to help each other.

One that is even more amazing is the tiny damsel fish, which is always in danger of being devoured by larger fish. When pursued it heads swiftly to a nearby anemone, dives through its mouth and on into its stomach where it is certainly safe from its pursuer. But how does it avoid being poisoned by the tentacles or killed by the digestive juices of the anemone's stomach? We don't know! The wise Creator has made it that way.

These and many other unusual circumstances are examples of the wonders of the Creator, of whom it is said, "Thy way is in the sea, and Thy path in the great waters." Psa. 77:19. As wonderful as these physical provisions for these little creatures are, they do not compare with the eternal safety He has made for those who have accepted Him as their own Lord and Savior. If your name is written in His Book of Life, that eternal safety is yours.

The Ungainly Manatee

"For He looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven.... And unto man He said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding." Job 28:24,28.

Few people have ever seen a manatee, because they live only in tropical waters along the southern Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, in South America and a few other places. These mammals spend their lives under water, coming up only to breathe with only the nostrils at the top of their snouts surfacing.

Their skin is dark brown or blackish, without fur and when mature they may be ten feet or more long. They are quite gentle and affectionate toward each other, even exchanging kisses while swimming side by side and readily sharing any available food supply. Because they are clumsy and slow moving, they are unable to come out on land to enjoy the sun's warmth like a hippo can. However, the Creator has given them thick flesh and heavy layers of insulating fat which protect them against the cold waters.

Manatees look like inflated dirigibles, all the way from their big, bristly mustached mouth to their huge, flat, horizontal tail. Because of their appetite for underwater grass and plants they are sometimes also referred to as sea cows. Heavy and bulky, they are supported by an extremely large muscle along the whole length of their body as well as by a framework of strong heavy ribs. Movement through the water is done with their big tail and hind quarters, assisted by flippers up front. The flippers are paddle shaped and used to maintain balance as well as for digging plants from the ocean bottom.

The Creator has given them everything needed for their unusual way of life, including the replacement of teeth so vital to them. As their front teeth wear away from constant cutting and chewing of sea grasses, they drop out. Promptly all those behind move forward, and additional new ones soon fill in at the back of the mouth. Isn't that interesting? Evolution couldn't arrange that, but we know it is part of God's wonderful creation.

A female will have just one calf a year, born underwater and immediately taken to the surface for its first breath of air. She will often assist in this until it learns to go up for air without help. Holding the little one close to her breast with a flipper, she also brings it to the surface for nursing, keeping its head above all the while. Attentive to and protective of her baby, she occasionally gives it the treat of a "piggy-back" ride through the water.

Does God care about manatees? Yes, they have been under His watchful care ever since the time of creation. Did you know you are always in His care, too? The Psalmist was thinking of this when he wrote, "Happy is he... whose hope is in the Lord his God: which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is." Psa. 146:5,6. Are you one of these happy ones whose hope and trust are in Him?,

The Long-Nosed Narwhal

"For the Lord is a great God.... The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." Psa. 95:3-6.

Only a few hundred people, known as Polar Eskimos, live in the snow and ice-covered regions of Greenland. This is farther north than where any other people of the world live! They patiently wait through the cold winter for the return of the short June-through August summer when they can fish and hunt again. They catch many fish, seals and an occasional polar bear, but what they look forward excitedly to each summer is the return of the gray and white narwhals. These, because of their long, lance-like horn carried in front of them, are called "the unicorns of the whales."

A big narwhal may weigh more than a ton and measure 20 feet long (not counting its horn). They are hunted, not only for their delicious vitamin-rich meat, but for the valuable oil in their bodies. Of greatest value are the long, ivory horns (or tusks) of the males which may measure eight or nine feet long, spiraled all the way from the upper jaw out to their pointed tips. '

A choice horn will weigh as much as twenty pounds and is not only a trophy for the hunter, but can bet sold for a high price. If it's in good condition such a prize will sell for nearly one thousand dollars. This means a great deal to the Eskimos, who, except for the fish they sell and a few furs, have little opportunity to earn money.

In the short summer there is a very rapid growth of aquatic life in the salt water on which many kin&—of fish thrive. In ways which only He could devise, the Lord God, the Creator, lets the narwhals know when this will take place. They gather in great numbers at the edges of ice-bound bays and fiords, waiting for the ice to break up so they can get at this food. At such times the Polar Eskimos make the most of their hunting skills in thrilling, dangerous hunts.

Like porpoises, narwhals are peaceful, lively and playful and are not known to do any harm with their pointed horns. But they are also wary and swift and easily escape when alarmed. So when going after them in kayaks (Eskimo boats) absolute silence is needed no outboard motors are allowed or any talking above a whisper. But even so, most narwhals escape being caught by the hunters.

If these Eskimos read the Bible they will find in its very first chapter that fish and narwhals are all part of God's creation. In further reading they will find that mankind is more important to Him than anything else. Reading on they will come to this wonderful verse: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16.

We hope that many of these hardy Eskimos have accepted this loving invitation. What about you?

The Colorful Parrot Fish

"Thy way is in the sea, and Thy path in the great waters. The sea is His, and He made it." Psa. 77:19 and 95:5.

The interesting parrot fish received its name because of its bright green and red colors and its parrot like jaw. Great schools of them, numbering a million or more, live in southern oceans. The mouth of this fish is like a parrot's beak. It has about 50 blue-white teeth which are so strong it can pull apart and chew hard, brittle coral to get at the tasty algae found in it. A mature fish chews enough coral each year to make 30 pounds of sand. Over the centuries this has resulted in many pretty sandy beaches along the shores of Australia and other countries. But, sad to say, much beautiful coral is destroyed by them since they do not distinguish between rare, priceless coral and ordinary coarse varieties.

In June the parrot fish get a strong urge to leave the quiet, shallow, protected reef where they live and swim into areas where the water may be 80 feet deep or more. There they meet with millions more of their kind that have obeyed the, same God-given instinct. They all become excited and soon they are swimming violently around until, as if by signal, all dash to the surface and then immediately turn down toward the bottom. As they descend, the females release millions of eggs which the males cover with a substance called milt.

This procedure is repeated many times by different groups at these meeting places. Soon it is over and the group breaks up, each pair going back to the quiet waters of their home, leaving innumerable masses of eggs to hatch out later on the open sea.

One variety of this fish blows a cocoon of mucus around itself at night time, carefully leaving small holes for breathing. This gives them an appearance of having been carefully dressed in silk nightgowns, which they discard in the morning, repeating the process each night. Although it is uncertain why they do this, it is no doubt a provision made by the Creator for their protection from night-prowling enemies.

Does the Lord God, their Creator, care about parrot fish? We may be sure that He does, for the Bible tells us, speaking of all the fish in the seas, "These wait all upon Thee, that Thou mayest give them their meat [food] in due season. That Thou givest them they gather: Thou openest Thine hand, they are filled with good." Psa. 104:27,28.

Of more importance to us, we also know from the Bible that in greater measure His love has been shown to all the people of the world. The Psalmist joyfully expressed, "How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand." Psa. 139:17,18. We should gratefully thank Him every day for His wonderful love and care over us.

Those Annoying Barnacles

"And God created... every living creature that moveth, which the waters brought forth abundantly, after their kind." Gen. 1:21.

Any swimmer who scrapes against a barnacle-covered object knows how tightly they hang on. Not only are they annoying, but they can cause damage. There are over a thousand species of barnacles in the oceans glued to rocks, pilings, driftwood, boat hulls and other objects. Even many living creatures, such as whales, dolphins, turtles, crabs and large fish, cannot stop them from attaching to their sides, heads, and backs. All operating ships in the ocean waters, even great liners, find barnacles a pest and expense, requiring frequent scraping of their hulls if the ships are to overate well in the water.

The most common barnacles are cone shaped. One variety is called acorn shell; another is called the upright goose. Most are only about one-eighth of an inch wide while some weigh as much as three pounds.

One barnacle can produce 10,000 eggs at a time. These move freely in the ocean for long periods of time until they change to free-swimming larvae and after several molts make a final change into true barnacles. Once they find a surface that appeals to them they cement themselves firmly to it in a head-down position with a self-made glue. Once the glue sets firmly they are attached for life with a bond so tight that storms and waves will never move them, even after they die.

Scientists would like to know how to make this glue, but in spite of great effort and expense they have not yet been able to make anything to compare with it. It is another wonder of God's creation.

The hard, rough shells of barnacles, growing in layers year by year, represent the protection their bodies need so as not to be eaten by fish and also provide a shelter from the sun when they are exposed at low tide.

Barnacles catch food using six pairs of tiny feathery feet called operculum cirri. These continually weave back and forth in the water from the top, open end of the barnacle's shell. Tiny particles of food, that are so small it would take a microscope to see them, are caught by these cirri and passed on to their mouth.

Does the Lord God care about barnacles? He certainly does. The Bible says, "Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places." Psa. 135:6. We may not understand why He made them, but we know that as the Creator of all things He has a purpose for them and they are a pleasure to Him.

Remember, too, that He also has made you and watches over you. Is He happy when He sees your life? The Bible tells us, "So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." Rom. 14:12. Have you admitted to Him that you are a sinner and accepted His Son, the Lord Jesus, as your Savior?

Millions of Crabs

"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for Thou halt created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created." Rev. 4:11.

There are so many kinds of saltwater, freshwater and land crabs that it would take many books to write about all of them. All have flat bodies, eyes at the end of stalks, and five pairs of legs covered with jointed shells. The two front legs are usually equipped with toothed pincers. Those that swim have flattened hind legs that work like paddles. Let's consider just a few of them.

Hermit crabs, using empty shells of all kinds for their homes, sometimes carry poisonous sea anemones on their backs as protection from enemies. The anemone shares the crab's food by reaching its tentacles into the crab's mouth when it is feeding. Its poison normally would kill the crab, but when they live together it does not harm the crab. Isn't that amazing? Only God could make this possible!

In somewhat the same way the cowboy crab of Hawaii carries an anemone in each of its two front claws to frighten its enemies and often joins the anemones in eating the food killed by their poison.

One called the sponge crab cuts out a piece of sponge just the right size and places it over its back as a disguise, using a special pair of legs given to it for this clever trick. Mole crabs bury themselves in the sand, leaving only their mouth parts and eye stalks exposed. Large numbers of them live together, getting food this way from outgoing waves.

Ghost crabs, sandy-colored to blend with the seashore, live in burrows on the beach. Leaving their homes at night to explore for food, they scurry back at dawn. Retiring for the day, they close the opening behind them so cleverly that no one would guess it was there. During the summer they store food for use when going underground in the fall, not to appear again until springtime, dressed in new suits.

Land crabs in the Samoan Islands live among rocks in the hills. Every October and November, exactly four days before the last quarter of the new moon, they travel down to the ocean in great numbers. Instead of going around rocks, tree stumps and even houses, they maintain a straight march, crawling right over them.

Many more of equal interest could be considered if space were available. Do you think the Lord, their Creator, cares about them? We know He does for the Bible tells us "all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist [are provided for]." Col. 1:16,17.

We, too, have been created by Him, and His care and love are over us at all times. He invites us to learn about Himself through His Holy Word, the Bible, and accept His Son, Jesus Christ, as our Savior. Have you obeyed the Bible verse that says, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth"? Eccl. 12:1.

Don’t Get Near the Portuguese Man-Of-War

"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for Me?" Jer. 32:27.

The ocean-dwelling Portuguese man-of-war is actually a deadly jellyfish, its beautiful colors being deceptive. Its most visible part, called the crest, is usually a transparent pink with its body being a bright blue, about eight or twelve inches across. Deadly tentacles (unseen from above) hang as long as 60 feet below its body. These are covered with thousands of stinging cells containing poison almost as deadly as a rattlesnake's.

The air-filled crest provides a sail and also helps keep it afloat. But if frightened, it deflates and immediately the jellyfish drops below the surface. When the danger is past it again pumps air into the crest which rises up firmly, and it continues sailing on its way, propelled by the wind.

Some varieties catch their prey by shooting out stinging harpoons, paralyzing the victim and then disposing of it. The more common ones, however, rely on fish bumping into a tentacle, being instantly poisoned by the stinger, and carried up to the digestive system.

The Portuguese man-of-war is not bothered by many enemies, but big loggerhead turtles are an exception. These turtles are not afraid to swim right into the tentacles, tearing off bites of food which they swallow without harm. The turtle does feel the stingers on the soft parts of its body, but apparently considers the meal worth a little pain.

The man-of-war has an amazing companion that travels with it. A small fish, by the name of nomus, swims among the tentacles without being harmed, picking off the scraps of food stuck to them. Swimming in and out of this den of poison, it tempts larger fish to chase it into the tentacle trap where they cannot escape. The relationship of these two odd companions is another example of how the Creator often uses two dissimilar creatures to help one another.

Swimmers do well to stay away from these vicious things, for they can inflict serious and even fatal stings. Even if a beached man-of-war appears to be dead, avoid it, for it is still dangerous.

This deadly resident of the sea reminds us of Satan, the great enemy of God and man! Just as the man-of-war appears attractive but conceals its deadly poison from view, the devil never tires of trying to deceive every person in one way or another. The Bible warns us that he is capable of appearing as "an angel of light," deceiving those who discover too late that they are caught in his deadly poison.

What is a safeguard against this enemy? The Bible gives the answer: "The fear [reverence and love] of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death." Prov. 14:27. Trust in Him at all times, and when Satan's temptations come, ask the Lord Jesus to help you turn away from them. 'Only He can give you the strength to do so.

Lions of the Sea

"Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice.... Let the sea roar, and the fullness thereof." 1 Chron. 16:31,32.

A stranger approaching San Miguel Island, 50 miles off the coast of California, might wonder at the noise he hears, increasing in volume the closer he gets to its rocky shore. He would soon discover the source-a colony of California sea lions, part of the 35,000 sea lions that make this their summer home. Big bulls, six to seven feet in length and weighing 650 pounds or more, roar during their waking hours to warn rival males to stay away. Females join in the noise, but with a softer bark, while the little "pups" bleat like lost sheep. The noise is deafening and certainly not a place for a seaside picnic.

Altogether there are about 90,000 sea lions in the Pacific Ocean, most along California's coast, but many on the shores of Japan as well. They have stream-lined bodies with smooth, round heads and can swim up to 25 miles per hour. The Creator gave them brown, warm fur to insulate them from cold and heat. Their bodies also are wrapped with thick blubber to protect from the cold.

In some ways they are similar to the walrus, but without its tusks and tough whiskers. But, like the walrus, their food is shrimp, shellfish, squid and many kinds of fish. They are excellent swimmers and divers and can stay underwater for half an hour. In this, too, the Lord God, their Creator, provided for them by giving them ears and nostrils, controlled by muscles, which automatically close when submerged.

Frequently fights occur between the huge males as they compete for a spot on the shore. These are frightful to witness, as sharp teeth make bloody wounds. However, their thick blubber protects them from serious injury, and it is rare for one to die from its wounds.

In the Bering Sea and Pribilof Islands of the far north, another species of sea lion lives-the Stellar. Though not as numerous as the California variety, they are much larger with some reaching ten feet in length and weighing as much as a ton. They are more adapted to the frigid northern Pacific waters, but sometimes small groups come farther south.

Pups are born on land at the time the males are with their harems, so are protected by the males. Immediately after birth the mother and her single pup "talk" constantly to each other. They become so well acquainted with each other's voice that they can identify one another by calling through the group's noise if they become separated. The pups quickly take to the water where they love to play, often forming "pods" (like gangs of teen-agers) and act tough, but it is all in play. If trained, they quickly learn tricks.

Many sea lions, living in obscure places, are never seen by people, but there is One whose eye is always on them. "For He looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven." Job 28:24. The Bible also tells us, "The Lord is in His holy temple, the Lord's throne is in heaven: His eyes behold, His eyelids try, the children of men." Psa. 11:4. What does He see when His eyes rest on you?

A Tale of Two Fishes

"The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea." Psa. 93:4.

The betta Siamese fighting fish of Thailand has an unusual way of making a home and raising a family.

The male does the work, going to the surface and blowing a nest of bubbles, adding a cement to hold them together. Then he finds a female companion and takes her to look it over. Usually she is excited about this lovely home and decides it is a good place to raise about three dozen babies.

However, she doesn't know how to get her eggs into the nest. Each egg that she lays drops to the bottom. The male takes care of this problem. He swims after each egg, picks it up in his mouth, swims to the nest, and blows it into the bubbly home. How do you think they learned to work together this way?

When the babies hatch the parents stand by to guard them. The babies are not allowed out of the nest until they are big enough to take care of themselves.

These are little fish, not over three inches long, but they are under the watchful eye of the Lord, their Creator, just as much as the largest fish. The Bible tells us, "The eyes of all wait upon Thee." Psa. 145:15. How nice to think of the Creator, the Lord God, not only creating them, but always taking care of them in their never-changing ways. He is the One who gives them the ability to work together in this interesting way.

The stickle back has this name because its back has spiny fins sticking up sharply as a warning to its enemies. Like the Siamese fighting fish these also have an unusual method of nesting.

The male picks up pieces of vegetation that he finds floating on the water and weaves them together to form a home. This home or nest has tunnels at each end and is attached to a living plant just beneath the surface. After the nest is finished he looks for a mate and brings her to see what he has built. Soon they move into this double-ended nest and raise their family in it.

There are so many unusual and interesting kinds of life throughout the world, and only a relatively few have been seen by man. But the eyes of the Lord are always on each of His creatures. He cares for every one of them and takes delight in watching how they always obey Him-each one following the pattern He set up in the days of creation.

We must never forget that He is our Maker, too, as the Psalmist reminds us, "Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that bath made us, and not we ourselves." Psa. 100:3. We should obey His Word and please Him by accepting the salvation He so kindly offers through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. "To-day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts." Heb. 4:7.

The Fierce-Looking Lobster

"Behold, God is great, and we know Him not.. Behold, He spreadeth His light upon [the earth], and covereth the bottom of the sea." Job 36:26,30.

Lobsters are weird-looking creatures of the sea which are easily recognized by their armor plate, big flat tail, spindly legs and immense pincers. Dark colored (they don't turn red until cooked), they blend in with the ocean floor. Eyes, with thousands of facets, are atop two stalks, and two wire-like antennae that detect food or danger extend out in front of them. They have only a pinhead-size brain. They do not have ears, but listen through the sensitive hairs on their legs.

Five pairs of legs carry on most of the work. The first pair are also enormous pincers which look too big for their body. The heavy crusher and cutters of these are for defense, but also are used to crush shells of clams, oysters, etc., to get at the meaty parts. The large tail has four pairs of swimmerets, providing power for swimming or scooting away backwards when frightened.

Male lobsters are cranky and hostile, and it is not unusual for them to lose a claw or leg, which amazingly grows back eventually, but until then it looks lopsided.

A lobster never stops growing and reaches thirty-five pounds or more if it lives long enough. But its armor-like shell doesn't grow with it. Every summer all parts of the shell break open; the occupant then slowly backs out and discards it. Without its shell it is defenseless and hides under a rock or piece of seaweed while its body swells about one-third larger. Then a shell begins to develop again, and before long it ventures out in its new suit of armor.

The female lays thousands of eggs each year, carrying them safely under her large tail for several weeks before releasing them. Hatching from its egg about a year later, each larva floats around in the ocean currents, sometimes traveling great distances before changing into a two-inch transparent body without a shell. It is then very vulnerable to attack by other sea creatures that are looking for such tender morsels. If it escapes all of them and grows to maturity, then it may become a victim of a lobster trap and wind up on someone's supper table.

The result is that not many have a chance of growing up. No doubt this is why the Creator provided the female with the ability to produce so many eggs. Those that manage to escape all the hazards can live as many as fifty years, but few do.

Some might think God would not be concerned about lobsters on the ocean floor, but the light of His vision goes even to "the bottom of the sea" (see the above verse), and He does watch over all He has created. Just hear what else the Bible says about this: "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest [visible] in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." Heb. 4:13. This includes each one of us. Have you ever thanked Him for His care over you? But more important, have you thanked Him for offering you salvation through faith in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ?

The Sea Horse

"Sing unto the Lord, all the earth.... Declare His glory among the heathen; His marvelous works among all nations. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised." 1 Chron. 16:23-25.

The oceans contain strange creatures, many of them frightening, strange and unusual. The sea horse is one of these. It is a fish that doesn't look or act like a fish. It is quite common along the coasts of North and South America, as well as in Hawaii, Tahiti and others of the South Sea Islands. Among the 40 species there are some as long as two feet, but the more common are only about three inches long. Most are dark gray or black, but some are a pretty pink, red, yellow, blue or white. All are able to change their color to that of their surroundings if they wish.

The sea horse is well named since its head and the top of its body look surprisingly like a miniature horse. Instead of scales it is covered with rough, bony plates. Its curved tail enables it to anchor onto sea grass or, hooked to another sea horse, to have a playful tug-of-war contest. Each eye pivots separately, and it can look toward the surface with one eye while searching underwater with the other.

The sea horse is always upright—head up and tail down. In this position it keeps itself balanced and moves by means of a fan-like fin on its back. This fin looks similar to the small propeller that whirls on the tail of a helicopter and enables it to swim forward, backward, up or down.

Another unusual feature about this ocean resident is the manner in which its babies are born. When the female is about to lay her eggs, she swims to her male companion and they engage in a lively dance, gracefully circling around each other. Then she transfers about 300 eggs into a pouch on his body. He incubates these for a month or more, until they hatch. Then, held in bubbles containing 50 to 100 eggs each, he releases them out into the water. As the bubbles burst, the tiny, transparent, comma-size babies separate, and each one begins a life on its own.

God has been pleased to make the sea horse very different from its neighbors, not only in appearance, but also in its peaceful habits. It has no enemies because its hard, bony plates make it unappetizing no matter how hungry they are. Its own diet is limited to tiny particles of food passing through the water. It does not attack other small fish.

The wonderful works of the Lord surely deserve the highest praise, as quoted in our opening verse, and should encourage every boy and girl to seek Him. The psalmist said: "The Lord is [near] unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth." Psa. 145:18. If you have not done this yet, call on Him today. He will hear and answer you.

A Few Strange Fish

"Lord, Thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is." Acts 4:24.

Among the fish of the world, God has created some interesting varieties. For instance, did you ever hear of the kissing gourami? When they aren't busy feeding, they seem to enjoy swimming up to another gourami, planting a kiss on its lips, and moving on to kiss another. Why do they do this? No one knows, except the One who made them.

Then there is the brightly colored butterfly fish. It has broad, wing like fins that enable it to come out of the water, spread its wings like a butterfly, and skim over the surface of the water, searching for food.

In parts of South America and Africa, during the rainy seasons small lakes form where there had been only dry ground or swampy marsh before. Miraculously, small fish often "suddenly" appear in these waters, swimming around until the ponds evaporate in the hot sun. Then they die, but meanwhile they have laid eggs in the muddy bottom. The eggs partially incubate in these muddy nests before the mud dries. When the rains return, these eggs finish incubating and hatch into a new generation of fish. It would seem that the Lord God, the Creator, wants to keep this strange fish as an example of the marvels of His works.

Another interesting species which is preserved in a different way is the large African lungfish. These fish, which actually look more like eels, live in seasonal ponds and bury themselves in the mud when the water has almost completely evaporated. There they form a cocoon to protect themselves during the long hibernation, curling up with their tails over their eyes to protect themselves and preserve moisture.

This fish is able to breathe either air or water; tiny holes in its cocoon admit enough air to keep it alive while hibernating. Of course, its body activities almost stop during this time, and it looks like it is dead. It actually can stay alive for as long as four years this way, living off its fat and muscle tissues until rains come to fill the pond again. Then it breaks out of the cocoon and takes up a normal fish's way of life. An unusual thing about this lungfish is that even when it is living in water it must occasionally rise to the surface to gulp air.

In some ways this is a picture to us of death and resurrection which are mentioned so often in the Bible. When the Lord Jesus was on the earth He said, "The hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear [My] voice, and shall come forth." John 5:28,29. He further explained that those who have faith in Him will come forth to everlasting life with Him in heaven, but those who die in their sins will come forth to judgment and be sent into everlasting darkness. How important it is, while we are still alive, to obey God's Word: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." Acts 16:31.

On, Over and in the Soil: Chapter 6

"Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, who humbleth Himself to behold the things that are in [the heavens], and in the earth!" Psa. 113:5,6.

The Always Hungry Grasshopper

"And the locusts went up over all the land of Egypt... and they did eat every herb of the land, and all the fruit of the trees." Ex. 10:14,15.

All who live where there are grasshoppers know about these insects. Even if you can't see them you know they are there by the noise they make. Although it can be quite irritating it is one of the sounds of summer. Actually, the noise is not made with their mouth, but by rubbing their front wings with their hind legs!

Under a microscope a grasshopper is discovered to be a most unusual creature, with a horse-like head which has two long antennae extending forward. Its head, shoulders and other body parts are protected with tough armor. It has wings which fold smoothly along its back and large hind legs, which show where the power comes from for their long hops.

Locusts are similar to grasshoppers, but that name usually refers to those species that migrate in great swarms and are very destructive to crops—as told in Bible accounts such as in our opening verse. But grasshoppers of the western world are destructive enough, as farmers in the United States and Canada can tell you.

A female, after digging a hole in the ground with what is called an ovipositor, immediately fills the hole with foam and then lays a great quantity of sausage-like eggs in it. The foam soon hardens to protect them. Tiny nymphs, not much larger than a grain of sand, eventually hatch out. They immediately begin feeding on tender vegetation and grow so rapidly that they soon shed their skins (moult). This is repeated five times before they reach full size.

The hinged legs of a grasshopper are very flexible, allowing for great force when hopping and acting as cushions when it lands. When ready for flight with feet firmly on the ground, the hind legs lift into a driving position. Powerful muscles push it off into flight with speed and distance increased by using its wings once airborne.

The Creator has not only provided them with ability to leap away from enemies (ever try to catch one?), but also gives them excellent concealment among the green and brown vegetation that they eat.

Perhaps grasshoppers are given to us as a solemn lesson, speaking of that which is destructive, creating nothing good in themselves, but trying to spoil the truth of God's goodness. There are many who fit this description around us today, and the Bible warns us about them: "For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers...teaching things which they ought not." Titus 1:10,11.

How can we keep from being deceived? Those who do not know the Lord Jesus as their Savior will most easily fall into the snares of such deceivers. But if you have put your trust in Him, a good answer is also provided: "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith...keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." Jude 20,21.

If you have riot yet accepted Him and His promises, won't you do this today?,

The Persistent Flea

"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise... that no flesh should glory in His presence." 1 Cor. 1:27,29.

Perhaps the flea is one of the "foolish things" referred to in this verse, for it certainly does "confound" the wisest of men. The flea sometimes has caused the wisest of men to feel quite humble because they cannot cope with such a small creature.

Why is a flea so hard to get rid of? There are several reasons. For one, when you try to kill a flea by pinching or pressing it, it relaxes its body to absorb the pressure and then hops safely away. Another reason is its reproductive ability. Including all the offspring produced by one pair, as many as 6000 can hatch in a little over a month. Eggs the size of a large grain of sand are laid in the fur of an animal. These roll off to the ground where they hatch in just a few days. The blind babies look like tiny white threads and immediately begin searching for food. They are not yet interested in blood, but eat decayed plant life.

A flea's eyes are very simple, and some species don't even have any. Within the first two weeks of its life, it moults (sheds) twice and greatly increases in size. It pupates by wrapping itself in a sticky silken cocoon in which its six legs, antennae and mandibles (jaws) develop. It comes from the cocoon as a full-size adult with a hard, flat body.

Strong legs allow this adult flea to jump on a passing animal where it works its way through the fur to the animal's skin. Its sharp mandibles, thinner than a human hair, pierce the animal's skin searching for a blood vessel. Then within its mouth two tubes are formed-one to draw out blood and the other to pump in saliva to keep the blood from clotting. The animal tries to relieve the pain by scratching the wound, which only produces more blood, to the pleasure of the flea.

An amazing ability given to fleas is that, although they have no wings, their strong legs allow them to jump a foot into the air and cover two feet between hops. A man in proportion to the size of a flea and with the same ability could jump to the top of a skyscraper or hop over two football fields at once!

Incidentally, there are about 1100 species of fleas throughout the world, including mouse fleas, rat fleas, bird and bat fleas, cat and dog fleas, etc.

Why did the Creator make fleas? It is well to remember that all things were created by Him in perfection, and fleas were not originally a nuisance but part of His overall creation. Sin soon marred the world, bringing death, pain, sickness and sorrow with it. The present character of such insects as flies, mosquitoes and fleas is the result of sin. Whenever they annoy us it should cause us to be humble and realize our own wisdom amounts to little.

Undoubtedly God would have all of us listen to His Word: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Prov. 9:10. Turn to Him and learn of His wisdom. You will find that it leads to everlasting life through trusting in the Savior "who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity." Titus 2:14. Have you done this?

Moths - Good and Bad

"For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool." Isa. 51:8.

Moths can be very destructive while in the caterpillar (larva) stage. Some species eat holes in clothes, fur and other things, while others damage food crops and flower gardens. However, a fully developed moth no longer harms things; some actually are helpful. A few of them never eat at all, and others have new appetites, wanting only the nectar from flowers. Flitting from one flower to another to gather nectar, they carry pollen to help pollenize flowers. Also, lovely silk thread comes from the cocoon of the silkworm moth in the Orient.

How can we tell if the pretty creatures we see are moths or butterflies? For one thing, moths usually have thicker bodies and smaller wings than butterflies. Moths fly at night-butterflies in the daytime. When resting, butterflies bring their wings together straight up from their bodies, but moths hold theirs out flat, like an airplane, or tight against their bodies.

The birth and development of moths follows the exact pattern established by the Creator when He first added them to the interesting things of His creation. There has been no change since that day, and His instruction that each generation must reproduce "after his kind" has always been followed. In the springtime they hatch as caterpillars from eggs deposited on trees, rocks, fence posts, etc. They do not remain as caterpillars very long.

Soon they spin a cocoon... inside curled leaves, under the bark of a tree, in the dark corner of a shed, or sometimes in the ground. One of the wonders of God's creation is the way a caterpillar changes inside its cocoon. In a few weeks' time it has fully developed into a moth, complete with markings and is able to fly when it escapes from its prison.

There are innumerable varieties of these interesting insects. The largest is called the atlas of India which measures as much as a foot across-from one wingtip to the other. In America the largest is the royal moth which in the beginning is a jet-black caterpillar, eating pine and hemlock needles. It eventually comes from its cocoon as a pretty six or seven-inch moth. A few of the others are the goat moth, the death's head, the tiger, the cabbage, one called puss moth, the swallowtail and a peacock. Perhaps you can think of others.

Even though moths are interesting, the caterpillar's bad habits cannot be overlooked. These habits remind us of Satan who brings evil thoughts and acts into people's lives before they are aware of the danger. That is why the Bible urges us to "lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal." Matt. 6:20. Is that where your treasures are?

If we have faith in the Lord Jesus and really desire to please Him, we need not listen to Satan. It is helpful to remember a good verse to add to our prayers: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." Psa. 19:14.

The Lowly Earthworm

"They shall move out of their holes like worms of the earth: they shall be afraid of the Lord our God." Mic. 7:17.

This verse from the Bible speaks of a time when the enemies of the Lord will try to hide from His judgment. No words describe them better than "like worms of the earth."

Although they are a very important part of God's creation, many people think earthworms are good only for fish bait, which is why they are also known as angleworms. But they are much more important than this, as we shall see. Hidden in the ground there may be 50,000 or more of them in an acre of rich, moist soil. They come to the surface only when it's moist to pick up old leaves, blades of grass, etc., rolling them tightly and taking them down their tunnels for future food.

Let's take a close look at one. If healthy it will be plump and pink-red in color. Its body, tapered at both ends, will be slightly moist, and it may have a collar around it in which eggs are carried before slipping off to hatch underground. If we could see inside this worm with a microscope we would discover as many as ten hearts. Perhaps the reason for so many is this-if a worm is cut in two, each piece will soon form a whole new worm. We also would find its tiny mouth and the 120 segments of its body with about 1000 little bristles underneath, that act like the scales of a snake, enabling it to move through the soil. We would see that it has no eyes, ears or nose, not needing these because it is guided by vibrations and breathes through its skin. What an amazing little creature God has made and cares for!

In what way are they an important part of God's creation? Principally because they are better tillers of the soil than any plow or piece of equipment used by man. Wriggling through the ground, their soft snouts push the soil into their mouths. As this soil passes through their bodies little bits of food are retained. The rest is carried to the surface. and deposited in little "castings" (now soft and fertile-soil) which fertilize the land. Not only do they serve this important purpose, but their activities loosen the ground, allowing water to penetrate and helping the roots of trees and vegetation to find nourishment below the surface. Don't you agree these things make the earthworm an indispensable gardener and friend to mankind? Some scientists, calling it "nature's plowman," insist it is the world's most valuable and beneficial creature, which could be true.

Does God have a lesson for us in this obscure and despised creature? Yes, the Bible tells us, "base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen... that no flesh should glory in His presence." 1 Cor. 1:28,29. We learn from this Bible verse that we do not come to God through a brilliant intellect and that the most simple person may by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior prove to be wiser than one whom the world considers to be its most outstanding person. Are you one who trusts in Him through this simple but precious faith?

The Astounding Ways of a Certain Wasp

"Seek the Lord and His strength:... Remember His marvelous works that He hath done, and His wonders." 1 Chron. 16:11,12.

The black wasp caterpillar hunter is a most interesting creature. The female has an amazing habit when making a nest for her little ones. First she digs a hole several inches deep in hard-packed sand. She carries one load after another of sand between her front legs and chin. Backing out of the hole, she flies off and dumps the sand some distance away so there will be no clue that a nest is nearby. Isn't that a remarkable performance?

After finishing the hole, she hides it by pulling a pebble over the entrance, brushing sand over the pebble to hide it as well. However, she herself, through God-given ability, always returns to the exact spot. Now she is ready to prepare further for her young. Hunting out a well-fed caterpillar, she pricks it in several places with her stinger—not enough to kill, but paralyzing it so it will never move again. Where did she learn to do this? When the Creator designed this arrangement the skill was given to this specific type of wasp and has been passed on to all generations ever since.

With a surprising show of strength, she drags the captive to her burrow, removes the pebble, pushes the caterpillar down the hole, and then replaces the pebble. This process is repeated until there are several caterpillars down in the hole. Then she deposits her eggs alongside the caterpillars. This accomplished she fills the hole with sand, and tamps it down firmly with a pebble held in her mouth and front feet. Her work is finished, and she flies off and forgets about her brood.

But the Creator does not forget them. Soon the warmth of the soil causes the eggs to hatch into larvae which feed on the caterpillars (but not causing them any pain because they are still paralyzed). Soon turning into mature wasps, they work their way to the surface and soon join others of their kind. What are we to learn from these interesting wasps? First of all, that the Lord God delighted in creating many wonderful things; then to observe that everything He created (except mankind) obeys the instructions implanted in them and they do not try to change their ways, as evolution falsely teaches. By this we learn that God is pleased with the obedience of His creatures. How it must please Him when we voluntarily desire to obey and serve Him. The Bible tells of some people asking, "What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered...This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent." John 6:28,29. When you truly believe on Him as your Lord and Savior, you receive a new life and nature that is happy only when doing what is pleasing in His sight. Is this true of you?

The Chinch Bug

"For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible." Col. 1:16.

The black and white chinch bug, with its reddish-yellow legs, is so tiny that when it hatches from its egg it is almost impossible to see without the help of a microscope. Although tiny, the little ones immediately start searching for food. Their little legs have enough strength for crawling and clinging to plants. They quickly find their way to stalks of wheat, oats, hay, etc., where they become destructive and costly to many farmers. Armed with sharp, sucking beaks, they attach themselves to these stalks, drawing out the sap until the stalk dies. Then they simply move on to another one, while growing bigger and hungrier.

In about a month they grow to full size, having moulted (shed their outer skins) frequently while growing. At the last moult, wings appear, usually about the time corn is beginning to ripen in the fields. Then they fly to the good-tasting corn to continue their destructive work.

At the end of summer they search out places in which to hibernate- cracks in wooden fences, a snug place under a pile of hay, the bark of dead trees, roof beams and shingles, or other places. In the spring when temperatures return to around 70°, they come out to continue their hungry ways again.

We may not find anything good to say about chinch bugs, but they form part of God's creation, and He has marvelously adapted them to their way of life. Perhaps He allows their destructive work to remind us that sin has come into the world and marred the perfection of His creation. In Rom. 8:22 this is spoken of, saying, "We know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now." This means that sin has brought unpleasantness and suffering to all creatures, including even the chinch bugs which often are the victims of such enemies as birds, frogs, spiders and many others that search them out and eat them.

The Bible also tells of a coming time (known as the Millenium), when all creation will again be in perfect harmony. Isn't it cheering to know it will be restored? But before that takes place those who know the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior will be called up into heaven. Then soon after, severe punishment is going to fall on this evil world. His promise to those who believe in Him is, "The dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." 1 Thess. 4:16,17.

Will you be included with those called into heaven's glory, or will you be among those left behind for punishment? Be sure your decision is right!

Ever-Present Beetles: Part 1

"Yet these may ye eat of every flying creeping thing that goeth upon all four, which have legs above their feet, to leap withal upon the earth... the locust... the beetle... and the grasshopper.... But all other flying creeping things, which have four feet, shall be an abomination unto you." Lev. 11:21-23.

It is interesting to find the lowly beetle mentioned in the Bible and included in the "clean" food approved by the Lord for the Israelites. Most creeping things were not to be eaten, but the locust, beetle and grasshopper were exceptions. Do you know why? If the Bible verse is read carefully we will see that the "clean" insects had legs above their feet that raised them from the ground. Without these legs their bodies were always in contact with the earth.

This distinction is a lesson for us. If we allow Satan to occupy us with this world so that we do not want to be separated from it or to rise above it in our thoughts, this is not pleasing to God. But if our thoughts and affections rise above the world (heavenward) and separate us from it, then God is well pleased. Think about it.

There are over 200,000 kinds of beetles and it is interesting to notice how the Creator adapts each kind to its surroundings. Some we have considered previously, such as the living bomb, another called the sexton, the familiar ladybird beetle, and the interesting firefly.

All "clean" beetles have four wings, the top pair being a stiff outer case not used in flying, but covering the inner pair when folded and at rest. The many varieties include all sizes-those small enough to crawl through the eye of a needle up to the Goliath beetle of Africa, which is the size of a man's fist. Another, only one-tenth of an inch long, blind and without wings (this one would be "unclean") lives in a nest of yellow ants where it receives good care because of a sweet liquid the ants take from it. When hungry it nudges an ant; their two mouths come together as though kissing, and food from the ant is transferred to the beetle.

Then there is the yellow tiger beetle which, though a pretty brilliant green with coppery legs flashing in the sunshine, is a ferocious little creature, living on sandy shores or on flat open places. It catches insects by attracting them with a fragrant perfume, then kills them with its sickle-shaped jaws.

There is an unusual water beetle which lives below the surface of ponds, carrying air down in a bag-like part of its body and renewing it when necessary. The Creator provided this one with exceptional eyes so that when on the water's surface it can see both what is in the air above and what is going on down below. Another, called the diving beetle, also spends much time in the water and is equipped with fine hair on its underside that holds an air bubble for breathing when it dives down.

Ever-Present Beetles: Part 2

"Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth?" Jer. 23:24.

Thousands of the world's beetles keep hidden from their enemies, often living in almost total darkness.

But they are never hidden from the Lord God their Creator who knows about each of them. The death watch beetle no doubt considers itself well hidden as it bores into wood and books. Its stomach has two tiny pockets containing yeast cells that help digest this kind of food.

The larva of the oil beetle, hatching from an egg laid near a flowering plant, is a real hitchhiker. Immediately after birth it climbs to the flower and waits for a bee to arrive. Leaping on the bee's back and clinging to its hair, it is carried to the hive where it drops off and is assured a great quantity of sweet food as it grows. How do you suppose it learned to do this? It could never discover this arrangement by itself. No, it is part of the wise instinct given by its Creator.

The tiny braconid beetle is a enemy of the tomato horn worn and goes after them in the following way: the female beetle lays eggs under the skin of the worm and the eggs hatch into maggots which eat the flesh of the worm. Tomato growers appreciate this good service.

Beetles are indeed found in strange places, but none stranger than the head standers, living in certain sand dunes along the African seacoast where temperatures reach 150' through the day. Like all living

things these beetles require moisture to endure the hot sands, but there is seldom any rain in these deserts. In what way has the Master Creator supplied them with the ability to get water?

Just before dawn as the sea fog moves in from the ocean, the head standers climb to the top of a sand dune. There they lift themselves up 'on their short front legs and long, spindly hind legs, pointing their heads down and turning their bodies toward the wet breeze. They wait patiently and soon the small water droplets from the fog wet their hard backs, and drops roll down their legs into their mouths for a cool, pure drink of water!

None of these beetles could achieve their surprising ways of life by gradually developing them over centuries of time, for the species could not have survived until fully equipped for their amazing performances which sustain life.

How nice to know that the Lord God, the Creator of all, had even the needs of lowly beetles in His purposes when placing them on the earth.

We know every human being is more wonderfully made than any other creature. In addition we have an everlasting soul, a mind and a heart that can learn of and accept God's wonderful love. That love has provided an eternal home in heaven, assured for all who admit themselves to be sinners and accept the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. Have you done this?

Two Creatures With Many Legs

"Every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth shall be an abomination... or whatsoever hath more feet among all creeping \things... them ye shall not eat." Lev. 11:41,42.

The first of our two subjects is the centipede. This name means 100 legs, but is just a general term since not all of the 1500 centipede varieties have the same number of legs. The most common have only 30, but big tropical ones may have more than 300. The centipede suggests danger, for they are known to be poisonous. However, the common ones in America cannot pierce human skin, and their targets are only earthworms and small insects.

These long, thin, blind creatures are composed of many segments, each segment having one right and one left leg attached. Most centipedes are born with very few segments, but at each moulting, new segments and legs are added. It might be thought so many legs would get mixed up, but you'd be surprised how fast they can travel, all legs working in unison. Active at night, their days are spent underground, under stones or in a piece of rotten wood.

We might wonder why the Creator put these strange things on the earth, but they are all part of His divinely planned creation, and He gives them the ability to make out very well in their unusual lives.

Then there are the millipedes. This name means 1000 legs, but 200 would be more accurate. Their brown, cylindrical bodies are much like the centipedes' except that each segment has four legs, and most varieties have only 30 or 40 segments. There are other differences, too. The millipede, without poisonous fangs, is entirely harmless. Rather than worms and other insects, this creature's food is mostly decaying plants or moist vegetation, which is why so many appear in flower beds that are kept damp.

They are often a nuisance by damaging plants, but there is no need to be afraid of them. In fact, they themselves are afraid when exposed and immediately coil up in a tight little circle, their heads in the center and their legs all pulled under their bodies.

While both these creatures are part of God's creation and under His care, we are reminded that in Old Testament days, under the law, God told His people not to eat them (see the opening verse above.) Instead, He named clean animals and birds that stand up or fly above the earth as their proper food.

We are not now under those laws, but we see an important lesson in them. God does not want any of us to find our pleasures in this wicked world (other than enjoying things of His creation), but He tells us: "Seek those things which are above.... not... things on the earth." Col. 3:1,2: That is the way of true happiness. You will see if you follow it.

The Ever-Present Cockroach

"For His eyes are upon the ways of man, and He seeth all his goings. There is no darkness... [where they] may hide themselves." Job 34:21,22.

There are 3500 species of the cockroach, about a dozen of which are in the United States and Canada. They can be found in the kitchens, bathrooms and cupboards of rich and poor alike, as well as in restaurants, markets and food storage places. The largest is four inches long and the smallest is one-half inch (except for a tiny one an eighth of an inch long in the tropics). Their activities are in darkness, and only a brief glimpse of them is seen as they scurry to hide when a light is turned on.

Cockroaches are mostly black or brown, although some species are green, yellow, red or orange. These pests with six spined legs are well equipped for survival. Their jaws have sharp cutting blades capable of handling tough items, including table scraps, paper, cloth, glue, soap and even electric cords and pieces of leather. But before feeding they use their antennae and thousands of special feelers to "inspect" the food to determine whether it is safe to eat or not. Through this "inspection" they avoid poisons intended for them. Spraying with insecticide in their concealed hideouts does not do much good either. The pressure-sensitive hairs on their bodies also inform them when danger is near, sending them sprinting away in a fraction of a second. Even their endurance is remarkable. Tests have shown they can survive a month without water and three months without food!

Preferring warm, moist spots, they are frequently surrounded by filth which they readily eat and which clings to their legs. Transported to other places, this often transmits disease. However, they are industrious in grooming themselves by brushing their bodies with their legs.

We are not told why, in bringing so many insects into the world, the Creator included the troublesome cockroach. Perhaps one purpose is to impress on us that the world has been spoiled by sin and to remind us of Satan who also "grooms" himself to appear even "as an angel of light." But in spite of this deceit, the devil is man's worst enemy.

The Apostle Paul was aware of Satan's evil activity and that those who do not turn away from his influence will, in a coming time, be under God's solemn judgment. "O wretched man that I [am]! who shall deliver me out of this body of death?" he cried. Finding the answer, he joyfully responded: "I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord." Rom. 7:24,25 J.N.D. Trans. Have you, too, accepted Christ as your Savior so that you can now give thanks unto the Father "who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son"? Col. 1:13.

The Ants With a Dairy

"How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth." Psa. 119:103.

Those who grow gardens know about the little insects, called aphids, that live on the stems of tender plants. They pierce them with their mouths and suck out the sugary juices. When the gardener finds them he usually tries to get rid of them, but there are many places where they live unnoticed by the gardener.

The aphid keeps only a small amount of this sugar in its body. The rest, known as "honeydew," comes through its pores and appears as little droplets on its outer surface. Certain ants who search out these aphids have learned that, by stroking the aphid's back with their antennae, it will give up the honeydew. This is used as food for the ant colony. Sometimes ants are found taking care of a large colony of aphids. In doing this they look like milkmaids milking their cows.

If a good supply of honeydew is available, the ants, after stuffing themselves full, take it to other ants n their nest. These ants, known as "honey pots," accept all the honey brought to them, until their abdomen is stretched to its limit, and they look like a round, amber-colored ball. When they can't hold any more they crawl to the ceilings of a chamber in the colony where they hang upside down and "go into storage." Sometimes they hang this way for a year or more, a remarkable feat, because when full of honey they weigh about eight, times their normal weight! A colony might contain 300 or more of these honeypots. In winter months when the aphids are gone and food is scarce outside, the honeypots allow their companions to draw the rich nectar from them.

Strangely, the aphids don't seem to mind the action of the ants and perhaps enjoy it. Sometimes the ants build an earthen barricade around their "cows," apparently to make sure they will remain in place. The eggs of the aphids are sometimes taken into the ants' nest before winter and given good care. When they hatch in the spring, the ants carry them to the new shoots of juice-producing plants, and then move them from time to time to the best spots.

The ants greatly enjoy the flavor of this honey, but Scripture tells us of something that has even more sweetness: "The judgments (words) of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is Thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward." Psa. 19:9-11. Does the name of the Savior and His words have that sweet meaning to you?

Army Ants on the Move

"All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made." John 1:3.

The large, fierce army ants live in the tropical countries of the world. They have no permanent home and are always on the move, except when they stop to raise their young. As they travel worker ants lead the way with larger soldiers at the sides. The main colony follows, carrying larvae in their mouths. Finally, the queen comes surrounded by large numbers of workers. There may be several million ants in such a procession. As this colony moves, it covers an area fifty or sixty feet wide and a quarter of a mile long.

Every small living thing that they come across is attacked and killed. They either eat what they kill or break it into small pieces and take it back for the queen and her workers.

Strangely, these ants are blind and are guided only by feelers and a sense of smell. As they move they leave an identifying scent. The messengers and scouts follow this scent back to the main group when they have found food. Large numbers then return with the scouts to where the food was found. Once in awhile captive ants are made slaves in the colony.

Usually the only time the colony stops is to let the queer lay more eggs. Rather than build a nest, they find a cave or overhanging cliff. A number of workers and soldiers climb to the ceiling where they attach themselves firmly. Others crawl over them, hanging one to the other until reaching the ground. These strings of ants are close together and almost form a wall. Passageways are left open so the queen can go to the center and be safe from intruders. This way the queen is guarded while she lays thousands of eggs. Then the colony is soon on the march again, taking the eggs with them.

When the colony makes an overnight rest stop, the columns break up and they all climb up bushes and vines to form living balls. They stay there until daylight, when they come back down and continue their move.

The ways of these vicious ants seem cruel and harsh. And yet they serve a purpose by holding in check many creatures that would otherwise overrun the jungle. They are part of God's overall plan to keep nature in balance.

In observing the army ants we can see that their survival over the centuries has been the result of complete obedience to the ways of God in His creation. To His people of old, the promise was given: "Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you." But, sad to say, "They hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward." Jer. 7:23,24.

How happy it would be if every boy and girl had a desire to please the Lord and obey God's Word. But we cannot be obedient and happy unless we have a new life-a new nature-given to everyone who accepts the Lord as their Savior. Do you have this new life, and are you obeying Him?

The Praying Mantis

"The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psa. 145:9.

Late in the autumn the female praying mantis lays one hundred or more eggs on the branch of a low bush, carefully placing them layer on layer to make a pile about the size of a walnut. Then she makes a foam that looks like beaten egg whites and covers them with this frothy material. This will protect them from the cold as they remain on the limb through the winter.

When spring warmth comes, the eggs hatch and the little ones wriggle out to start a life of eating other insects. Sometimes the stronger ones even eat the weaker ones before they get away. Exposed to the air their skin promptly hardens, but as they grow it splits open and drops off. This process (called moulting) is repeated several times until by mid-summer they have finished their growth and their wings appear.

The praying mantis is always silent, and the curious thing about it is the way it catches its prey. Green and brown in color, it is camouflaged to look just like part of the plants on which it climbs. Finding a suitable spot, it lifts up its arms, making it look like it is praying, and remains perfectly still until some unsuspecting victim comes along.

It usually doesn't have to wait very long before a beetle, caterpillar, hornet, fly, or even a mouse or small snake-not aware of the danger-comes too close and is captured. The front legs of the mantis have sharp spikes, and once the victim has been grasped it has, no chance of escape. But at least its death is quick and merciful. The mantis seems to know the nerve centers are located in the back of the neck, and immediately on making its catch it bites through these nerves, bringing instant death.

Of course the praying mantis isn't really praying, because it doesn't know anything about God who is watching over it and providing its food. It doesn't know this One that taught its mother how to protect her eggs and has shown it how to care for itself-things it could never learn to do with its small brain. Its ways seem cruel, but since it destroys many bad insects it is a friend of every gardener and should not be harmed by any of us.

In observing the ways of this insect we see another example of the way God has arranged for the care of one more of His creatures, and at the same time providing a necessary means of helping to control insects that are harmful.

Its manner of life, as it appears to be praying (but is actually waiting to catch something), makes us think of those who do not really know the Lord as their Savior, yet they pretend to be "religious." The Lord saw many people like this when He was on earth, and on one occasion said: "Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing... and the chief seats in the synagogues, and... which devour widow's houses, and for a pretense make long prayers." Mark 12:38-40.

But to those who sincerely seek Him the promise is: "The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth." Psa. 145:18. He will always hear your prayer when you speak to Him with a true heart.

A Miracle Caterpillar Butterfly

"God that made the world and all things therein... giveth to all life, and breath, and all things." Acts 17:24. 25.

When a butterfly looks for a place to lay its eggs, it will select a spot on, or very close to, a plant that the hatched caterpillar will like to eat. God has given it wisdom to know just what the little ones will eat, even though the butterfly itself does not eat anything.

When the egg hatches, what a surprise to the observer! It might be that he expected a baby butterfly to appear. But no, it is a little caterpillar that comes out. In spite of its small size, it has strong jaws and will spend its life eating leaves, fruit, or small plants, much to the dismay of gardeners. Four times in its life, its skin will become too tight, split open and drop off. A new skin will have already formed underneath, to replace it.

Many caterpillars are eaten by birds, but the one that fools this enemy is the swallowtail. When it is aware of a bird looking at it with greedy eyes, it turns over on its back and two large imitation eyes appear, so he then looks just like a snake. The frightened bird flies away. Do you suppose the caterpillar learned this by practicing, or by painting the "snake eyes" on itself? No, this means of escape was provided by the Creator when caterpillars were first created and passed on by Him to all following generations.

The time comes, usually at summer's end, for a great change in its life. An inner urge tells it to stop eating and prepare for cold weather. It does this by first weaving a net of silk around itself. Then it spreads a liquid all over this new oval home (called a chrysalis), which becomes hard and shiny, as though coated with shellac. These are usually golden colored, although there are other colors, too, and each is camouflaged to be hidden in its surroundings. The caterpillar (now called a pupa) stays totally quiet inside and remains that way through the cold winter.

But a miracle is taking place inside this shiny chrysalis. When it finally opens, a full-grown butterfly comes out, spreads its wings and flies off on an entirely new life. Its diet now will be limited to the nectar of flowers and blossoms, sipping it with a long, hollow tongue. When not in use, this coils up inside its mouth, like a watch spring.

Most butterflies are brightly colored, including the lovely monarch. Another very pretty one is the painted lady, which makes long migrations between Africa and Iceland. In the jungles of Central and South America, there are more beauties, an outstanding one being the blue morpha. Color markings of each species are always the same, because God has instructed them to reproduce "after their kind," and they never get mixed up.

The life of these interesting creatures is a reminder that God invites us to also make changes in our natural lives. We come into the world with natures that are selfish and sinful. But God has provided a way for us to be "born again" through the death of Christ on Calvary's cross. When we accept Him as Lord and Savior, we are brought into "newness of life... dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." Rom. 6:4,11. Have you made this important change in your life?

Swat That Fly

"Lord, Thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is." Acts 4:24.

Of the 85,000 kinds of flies in the world, the most pesky and best known is the common house fly. It has been called "the most dangerous insect in the United States," because of the germs it spreads. Although I'm sure none of us like house flies, let's take a closer look and see what things the Creator has given them.

Starting from a tiny egg laid by a female fly, a white grub hatches. This grub grows rapidly and within a few days changes to a pupa and then into an adult fly. In proportion to its size, its eyes are huge, each eye having some 4,000 six-sided lenses to give it outstanding vision. (No wonder it's so hard to sneak up on them!) Its body, made up of five segments, is covered on the underside with stiff hairs through which six hairy legs protrude. These hairs are always loaded with harmful bacteria (germs). Looking closely, we see that each leg ends with a combination of a tiny claw and a sticky pad, where more germs cling.

Did you ever wonder how a fly can walk as easily up a window as on a smooth table top? Or, how can it walk upside down on the ceiling? The claws help it get a grip on smooth surfaces, but it is the pads, coated with a sticky fluid, that enable it to climb or walk upside down without difficulty.

Then there are the amazing, balanced, transparent wings that move 330 times a second. As the wings move, rod-like structures, called halteres, vibrate at the same rate to give the fly its sense of balance. More than one-tenth of the fly's weight is in the muscles that control its wings.

The house fly multiplies rapidly. During her short, two-week lifetime a female will lay half a dozen clusters of 100 to 150 eggs each. If every egg became a fly and none were destroyed, it has been calculated that within four months the descendants of a single pair of flies would cover the earth! But God does not allow them to reach so great a number, keeping them under control with many enemies. In addition to people who swat them with a fly swatter, they have many other enemies-spiders, hornets, frogs, birds, mites and parasites, all keeping them under control.

When the Lord God created the first flies they were in no way harmful. But when sin came into the world, He allowed them to have their present bad habits as a reminder that "the wages of sin is death," and they became one of the ways by which death-resulting diseases are spread. In a future time all will be restored to order again, and these insects will no longer be harmful. That time will be after the Lord takes all who love Him into heaven.

Yes, even the house fly is under the Creator's control and shows again how wonderfully He has made every creature. Actually, every boy and girl is a much greater marvel of His creation. The Psalmist said, "I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are Thy works." Psa. 139:14. He has not only made us His highest creation, but wants us to know His great love. Have you responded to the invitation, "O taste and see that the Lord is good"? Psa. 34:8.

The Miracle That Is a Bee

"Eat thou honey, because it is good; and... sweet to thy taste: So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul... " Prov. 24:13,14.

The honey bee is much too interesting to describe just in one article, so let's consider its specially designed anatomy (body structure) at this time.

Bees have six legs and each pair has a special purpose. The front pair is especially adapted to clean off the insect's antennae or wipe pollen from its face, mouth and eyes. The hinged middle pair is used to pack pollen into the collecting baskets on the hind legs. In addition to carrying these baskets the hind pair work with the middle pair to tamp the pollen into pellets. These pellets are used in the hive. Each leg also has sharp tips for walking over rough surfaces, and cushions between the tips give a grip on smooth surfaces.

Two flexible antennae on the front of the bee are covered with thousands of tiny plates. These give the bee sensitivity to touch and also a keen sense of smell. Then there are the two specially-designed wings which enable the bee to carry heavy loads of nectar and pollen for long distances. When flying, the front and back wings attach to each other by hooks which then make one large, strong pair of wings. However, to enter small flowers, or the hive cells, these wings separate, fold down and overlap. Incidentally, a bee flies with its wings moving in a figure-eight pattern which allows it to move up or down, backward or forward, or hover like a humming bird.

Two huge compound eyes surround three smaller ones. The big ones, with many smaller plates called facets, somehow pick up the sun's rays and act as a compass wherever the bee may be at any time.

There is a wonderful "chemical factory" inside the bee. This changes the nectar it gathers into honey. The same organs produce beeswax, too.

No other insect has a mouth and tongue designed like a bee's. It is designed to penetrate into deep pockets of flowers and blossoms. The body shape and structure are also just right to carry pollen from one plant to another. It is God's chief pollinator of flowers, and in the course of a busy day each bee visits thousands of blossoms.

We read in Prov. 16:24: "Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones." How happy life would be if we all used pleasant words with as much energy as the bees use in gathering their honey. But it is only by knowing the Lord Jesus as our Savior that we have a new nature which delights in pleasant words and helpful works. It is also written: "... apply thine heart unto My knowledge. For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips." Prov. 22:17,18.

Have you acted on the pleasant words of the Lord which invite you to come to Him and be saved?

The Mayfly

"The Lord, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof." Psa. 50:1

There are over a hundred verities of the mayfly, most of which appear during May or June. With a body little more than half an inch long and three, thread-like tails, it makes a pretty sight flying about with its four wings.

But it doesn't start out that way. Sticky eggs, dropped in the water, attach themselves to plant stems or a rock. Soon "nymphs" hatch out, which have a dark outer jacket, or skin. This makes them hard to be seen by fish, dragonfly larvae, beetles or other enemies which like to eat them. The nymphs will crawl on the bottom of the lake or stream for about two years, eating food which is filtered from the water. At the end of two years, it changes from gill-breathing to air-breathing. Rising to the surface, its outer skin splits open, and it pulls itself out of it. With a short exposure to the air, its four wings strengthen. It then flies to a nearby object for a few hours of rest before becoming active.

After this change, its life is very short. As an adult mayfly it does not eat, because it does not have a mouth or a stomach. It spends its time finding a mate. When males and females come together, they engage in an interesting "dance," rising and falling gracefully through the air. Afterward, the female lays a number of eggs in the water and dies, as does the male.

Their adult life span lasts only a few hours. Because of this, the Latin name "ephermerida" has been given to them, meaning "living for only a day."

Frequently, great numbers of nymphs come together to the surface at the same time for their change into mayflies. As they rise in the air in large numbers, they cause great excitement among the fish, that leap for them, as well as birds, that swoop down, snatching them in mid-air. Even so, many do escape, so the egg-laying and eventual hatching of a new supply of nymphs goes on year after year.

Do you think God cares about these little creatures? He certainly does. They are part of His creation, all in balance with the rest of His creation. We may not always understand His purpose in the things about us, but like Isaiah we can say, "Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of His understanding." Isa. 40:28.

But He does want us, His special creation, to come to Him. We are invited to "Seek... the Lord while He may be found..." (Isa. 55:6); to listen to His invitation-"Come now, and let us reason together... though your-sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool" (Isa. 1:18); and to accept Him as our Lord and Savior. Our lives, like the mayfly's, may be shorter than we expect. How important it is to accept Him today!

Unusual Examples of Creation: Chapter 7

"For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible... all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist." Col. 1:16-17

The Lowly Sponge

"And one ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave Him [Jesus] to drink." Mark 15:36.

I'm sure when most of us think of sponges we think of the artificial, rectangular sponges which come in all sizes and colors. But the best sponges are still those from the ocean, and they still have many uses because the artificial ones are often too hard and scratchy.

Surprisingly, sponges are not plants but animals, although in the simplest form. Their bodies are made up of millions of cells honeycombed with tubes, but unlike most other animals they have no blood vessels, nerves, brain, stomach or other organs.

Small hairs on the surface draw large amounts of water through millions of pores into a hollow center where tiny plants and sea life are strained out to provide nourishment. This goes on 24 hours a day.

There are over 4000 kinds of sponges, from pinhead size to some six-feet tall. The more common ones have a dull black color, but some are quite pretty. Among the many kinds, finger sponges look like long pink fingers. Others also have names to fit their appearance, such as breadcrumb, horny, elephant's ear, etc. Some look like large vases and are prized by collectors, especially those colored bright yellow, pink, red, purple or green. Still others, called glass sponges, are equally as pretty, looking like feather dusters, umbrellas, unusual carvings, or long embroidered tubes.

Having no physical way to defend themselves, sponges would soon be destroyed by fish and animals, but the Creator has not left them helpless. To discourage raids by hungry prowlers, they give off a bad odor that keeps most of these enemies away.

Sponges are usually harvested by divers, sometimes in very deep water. All of the outside portion is stripped away, leaving only the clean inside part to be sent to the markets.

The next time you use a natural sponge think how it is among the innumerable things given by the Creator for man's benefit. Consider, too, that He watches over and delights in every one of them.

The scene at Calvary's cross, told in our opening Bible verse, reminds us of the cruelty of those who crucified the Lord Jesus Christ and His love in enduring the awful suffering. The offer of a sponge soaked in vinegar was perhaps meant as a little act of kindness. But the Lord did not accept it, choosing rather to pay in full without any relief the load He bore in accepting God's punishment for our sins.

What does His wonderful love mean to you? Have you personally thanked Him for dying on the cross for you? He longs to hear every boy and girl and every adult not only thank Him, but accept Him as his or her personal Savior. "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Cor. 6:2.

Seaweed Pest or Blessing?

"Every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving." 1 Tim. 4:4.

Did you ever hear someone say, "We can't picnic on that beach; it's covered with seaweed," or, "There's a good fishing spot, but too much seaweed," or, "Don't swim there; you'll get caught in seaweed"? To ocean shore visitors such statements are common. Yet the good things about these rather ugly plants outweigh their problems, and their part in the ocean is in accordance with the Creator's plans when He made the world and the seas in it.

There are many kinds of seaweed, the most common being the brown kelp. This is a giant species which in Pacific coast waters grows as tall as a 20-story building. Another is known as rock weed. Dulse, in several red-brown varieties, is another, and one drifting around the Sargasso Sea in great masses is called sargassum In this variety live the millions. of small eels that are born each year.

Seaweed can be a problem to someone cruising offshore when it gets tangled in his outboard motor. A homeowner gets upset when he discovers his ocean view is spoiled by dark-brown patches hiding the blue water. But it is very welcome to a sea otter, attaching itself to a strand to keep from drifting while napping, or to a fish escaping from a shark.

The above Bible verse stating "Every creature of God is good," refers to all created things (including seaweed) which, in one way or another, are beneficial to mankind if used properly. Do you know that thousands of tons of seaweed are harvested and sold for millions of dollars every year? It is used by a variety of industries, as well as appearing on the tables of people in many countries as an attractive and healthful food.

Seaweed is often an unseen but important part of glass, soap, vitamin pills and important medicines. Your toothpaste probably has some in it, as well as the pudding and pie your mother makes from store-bought packages. Shaving cream, cosmetics and paint, too, as well as chocolate goodies, ice cream, some candies and a long list of other products have seaweed as one of their ingredients.

Next time you visit the seashore and see whip-like or fan-shaped pieces of seaweed washed ashore, think how the Lord God has made this lowly sea plant a part of His benefits to you, and then thank Him for it.

Seaweed nourishes our bodies, but it is even more important to accept the spiritual food God provides through His Word, the Bible. In it He invites you to "taste and see that the Lord is good" and promises "blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." Psa. 34:8. A man who did so exclaimed, "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart." Jer. 15:16.

If you have not received this joy in your heart, read the Bible and find that you, too, may taste and see that the Lord is good."

Treasure in the Ocean

"The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.... He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap: He layeth up the depth in storehouses." Psa. 33:5,7.

We have previously considered some of the treasures of the oceans—fish, whales, shellfish, salt, minerals and much more. But there is another important treasure, billions of tons of it, and most people have never heard about it. It is a living material called krill, or plankton.

Without the immense supply of krill there would be no whales, porpoises, or some of the important fish that form part of man's food supply. For all these and many others, krill is the main food. Whales are perhaps the largest feeders on krill. Swimming through a mass of krill with its mouth open, then closing it to squeeze out the water, the "krill soup" that remains is swallowed. It is estimated that a large whale may swallow over five tons of this a day, composed of trillions of krill.

Most krill is found in the icy waters of the Arctic and Antarctic oceans and is the real reason why whales, penguins and many kinds of fish are so plentiful in those areas. The name "plankton" means "wandering" and refers to that part of the krill composed of tiny plants and animals (also called diatoms), some so small that a teaspoonful of water could hold one million of them! These drift about in ocean currents, and if not devoured, their tiny skeletons eventually drop to the bottom, making, over the centuries, great deposits of "diatomaceous earth." This material can be dredged out and used as filters for swimming pools, in sugar refineries, in paints and for many other purposes.

However, krill is made up of many things besides diatoms. Tiny, shrimp-like creatures often form part of it as well as others that look like miniature lobsters, shellfish about the size of a postage stamp, another shellfish called a copepod, great masses of algae and untold millions of microscopic plants and life forms. The lobster-like krill, whose eyes form the major part of their head, are a choice food of penguins along with a heavy diet of fish. Table-size shrimp are fond of krill also. All of these receive from it important vitamins and minerals which is part of the Creator's way of providing strength and health for them and, in turn, on to others who eventually use them for food.

Sometimes called "the pasture of the sea," krill is often found in great masses covering the ocean for several miles. It often glows with a soft but plainly visible light as ships pass through it at night.

While these creatures are unseen to most of us, we cannot help but consider how wonderful it is that the Lord God, their Creator, is always aware of all His creation and through krill provides for so many of them. "These all wait upon Thee; that Thou mayest give them their meat [food] in due season" Psa. 104:27.

Salamanders Like to Hide

"And God made... everything that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good." Gen. 1:25.

We might think that God is not very interested in a little animal like a salamander. But as our verse tells us, He not only brought all the little things into being, but "saw that it was good" after He had done so. One reason He made them was to benefit mankind by helping to keep in check the harmful bugs and insects that damage man's food supply. They do this very well.

Most salamanders (or newts) keep hidden in the daytime. Sometimes after a heavy rain they appear in street gutters or along paved sidewalks. Because they show up when things are soaking wet, they are often called "water dogs."

There are over three hundred kinds, ranging in size from one inch to five feet long. Most are about the length of your middle finger (not counting the tail). Since they must keep their skins moist, they live near ponds or swamps, or under logs or wet leaves, and some in underground burrows.

One unusual species in the tropics spends its entire life in trees, sometimes a hundred feet above ground. It makes its home in plants that grow on tree trunks and hold water in their leaves. Such salamanders have very flat bodies, so they can move around in these tight places.

They also have webbed toes and "suction-cup" feet, so they can scamper over tree leaves easily.

Another interesting species, the red eft, is only about three inches long. It starts life as an egg carefully wrapped in a leaf by its mother, which she fastens just below the surface of a pond. When it hatches, it drops as a larva to the bottom of the pond where it lives for about a year. Emerging from its shell in the fall, it crawls out on land as an air-breathing little creature, brick-red in color, and heads for a winter hiding place in a rotten log or other safe place. In the spring it comes out and is quite happy to spend most of its time waiting for a fly or bug to come close. When this happens it flicks out its sticky tongue-so fast it can hardly be seen -and captures it.

Newts, like lizards, have the ability to replace lost or injured parts of their bodies. If a tail or leg is bitten off it will grow back quickly, just as healthy as ever. Some have even been known to lose an eye and have a new one replace it.

We might wonder why God put these odd little animals on earth, but they are just part of His whole design in balancing the rest of His creation. How wonderfully He has equipped each one to fit its own way of life-whether below the ground, in the water, on the surface, or up in a tree top.

Some teachers, who don't believe in God or don't believe the Bible, claim all things came by evolution. But we know the truth of Scripture: "There is but one God.. and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things." 1 Cor. 8:6. Happy is that person who recognizes Him not only as Creator, but as Lord and Savior, as well.

Putting the Sun to Work the Crocodile

"The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose." Eccl. 1:5.

Many crocodiles make their homes in the Nile River. Their young come from eggs, and their hatching is quite interesting. Before laying her eggs, the female leaves the river and finds ground that is exposed to the hot sun. After digging a hole about a foot deep, she lays the eggs in it. She then covers them with dirt and presses it down firmly. Until they hatch, the mother crocodile stays nearby guarding her eggs. She will attack anything that tries to dig them up.

Nearly three months after the eggs have been laid, her patience is rewarded. She seems to know that the little ones are starting to break out of their shells. But, unless they get help they will not be able to get out of the nest. The sun-baked soil has become hard as a rock. That is when "mother" comes to the rescue. With her strong claws she rips the nest open and frees the baby crocodiles. She picks them up very gently in her jaws, holding twenty or more at once, and carries them to the river or a pool where she releases them. After a few lessons in the water, they soon learn to care for themselves.

THE MALLEE FOWL

This large bird makes its home in Australia. Its method of hatching its young is quite similar to that of the Nile crocodile. The female, rather than making a nest as most birds do, digs a pit in the ground. She partially fills it with leaves, lays the eggs on them and finally covers it all with dirt. From then on she turns all the care of the nest over to her mate.

The decaying leaves and the hot sun heating the soil provide just the right temperature for incubation. While waiting for the little ones to hatch, the male bird takes very good care of the eggs. From time to time he scrapes away the soil to check on them. If it doesn't seem to be going just right, he will sometimes clean everything out and make the nest all over again. Since his mate lays eggs several times a year in separate nests, the poor male spends a great deal of his lifetime performing these duties.

How did the crocodile learn that the heat of the sun will cause its eggs to hatch underground? How does it have patience to wait so long for this to happen? Who taught her how to carry the babies in her jaws?

How did the mallee Fowl discover such a strange way to hatch her eggs, and who told the male how to take care of the nests? Such instructions could only have come from the One who created them. And He didn't leave them to discover these things over centuries of time, but taught them the very day He created them.

Do you know that the Scriptures have something to tell us, too, in regard to instructions? The Lord says: "I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye." Psa. 32:8. The way of happiness is to follow His instruction and guidance.

Is It a Frog or a Toad?

"Or ever the earth was.... My delights were with the sons of men." Prov. 8:23,31.

From these Bible verses we know that the Creator, God Himself, loved the people of earth even before He created the world. This delight and joy also included having us share His happiness in' His created things. This even includes learning about the many varieties of toads and frogs that He has placed in the world.

In response to the title question, "Is it a frog or a toad?" the term "frog" is used many times to describe what actually is a toad. In spite of similarities, there are many differences. Toads, for instance, have no teeth whereas most frogs do. Toads have hind feet which are only partially webbed while frogs' feet are fully webbed. Only toads are covered with warty skin, having poison in glands behind each eye and in each wart, that irritates and sometimes kills enemies (although it is harmless to humans). (Incidentally, it is not true that handling toads will give you warts.)

The eyes of toads are interesting, and many people think that they are quite pretty. Each variety 'has its own colors and jewel-like design. Like frogs, toads seldom blink their eyes.

Both toads and frogs have excellent patience, sitting perfectly still for long periods of time,. waiting for a morsel of food to come swimming, crawling or flying by. Then, a quick flick of its long tongue will capture its dinner.

Most frogs and toads make their homes in warm climates. However, one that likes the cold is the boreal toad, a resident of British Columbia and Alaska. Another also preferring the northern climate is the Hudson Bay toad, a heavily warted specimen distinguished by a white stripe down the center of its green back.

One of the most interesting is the Surinam species of South America which is so flat it looks like it has been stepped on. Never leaving the water, it eats small fish, insects, worms, etc. Its long and slim, webless front fingers are very sensitive to touch, and with them most of its food is found. When the female lays eggs the male places them, one by one, in pockets on her back, and her skin quickly closes over them, providing a separate incubator for each. After several weeks they come out fully developed adults and do not have to go through the tadpole stage as most others do.

There is also a six-inch-long, four inch-wide American toad, given the name of giant, but it is actually only about half the size of its cousin, the well-known American bullfrog.

These and a great number of other varieties are, like each of us, always under the watchful eye of our Creator, the Lord Jesus Christ. God's Word, the Bible, tells us: "Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the Lord hath wrought this? In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind." Job 12:9,10. Have you ever thanked Him for watching over you?

"For He [God] looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven." Job 28:24.

Yes, even toads and frogs are included in the above verse, as is every creature God has made. In the last issue the unusual ways of some toads in various parts of the world were considered. Let's look at a few more.

Among the smallest is Rose's toad of South Africa which is only about an inch long. Another short one, the two-inch spadefoot, has a sharp spade (shovel) on the inside of each hind foot, something like the nail on your big toe. With these it digs underground to escape desert hot spells, remaining there until the rainy season brings it out again. The spadefoot is sometimes referred to as a frog, but it is more correctly a toad.

Both the Fowler's toad and the oak toad look twice their actual size when blowing balloons from their mouths to increase the volume of their croaking. Some others make similar balloons, swelling out their throats to increase the volume.

The yellow natterjack of England, with deep brown warts, is also interesting. Looking almost like a tiny bulldog, it doesn't hop, but runs over the ground. Another, rather peculiar looking, is the pale-green South American granular toad, covered with sharp-looking points that scare would-be attackers, although they are just soft warts.

One species which does not have the normal drab colors of toads is the olive-green Colorado River toad.

It lives in the deserts of the United States and Mexico and is the most venomous (poisonous) of all toads,.

It has glands in its legs containing poison which when rubbed into the skin of a small animal brings painful death. This is good protection for this species and it is seldom attacked.

Another even more colorful species, which lives in groups of a thousand or more, is the golden toad. Their colors range from a bright enamel red to a brilliant orange. These make beautiful displays of bright color among the trees and forests of Costa Rica. They do not have to use loud croaks to keep in touch with each other, for their bright colors serve that purpose.

It would take more space than available here to write about all the known varieties of toads, but this little glimpse of them should cause us to admire the Creator's marvelous work. The Bible's assurance: that "all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do" (Heb. 4:13) includes each of us, too. It is sobering to realize the time coming when we all must give account of ourselves to God who has been watching and caring for us (see. Rom. 14:11,12). Are you prepared for that time?

More About Frogs

"O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! in wisdom hast Thou made them all: the earth is full of Thy riches." Psa. 104:24.

When God looked at His creation He "saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good." Gen. 1:31. It is well to remember that, while some things seem unattractive to us, they all have a purpose in God's arrangements for the good of the whole world.

This is certainly true of frogs. They are of real benefit to mankind in eating great quantities of insects. They have been designed by the Creator to do this efficiently.

Adult frogs are interested in eating only living things. Their tongues are placed in the front of their lower jaw for lightning-like action (faster than a human eye can follow). A frog is a model of patience, sitting quietly without any movement until an insect flies or crawls near, it. Then, flicking out the whole length of its sticky tongue, the frog catches and swallows the insect. Its diet includes flies, grubs, slugs, beetles, grasshoppers, mosquitoes and other insects. No wonder farmers consider frogs their friends and encourage them to stay on their property.

Many frogs hibernate in various ways through the cold months. The leopard frog spends the winter under the ice, but most others bury themselves in the mud. In Australia where it gets very hot, they do not hibernate. However, one large frog, known as the water, reservoir, is able to hold a great amount of water in its body and stays alive this way through dry spells. Natives who are dying of thirst have often been saved by killing some of these frogs and drinking their stored water.

To escape its enemies, such as snakes, turtles and large birds, some frogs are able to change their color to that of their surroundings as they move from place to place. But more important, they have the ability to leap quickly to safety. Even a two-inch tree frog can jump four or five feet, and the big ones can jump much farther.

Much time and money has been spent by scientists who are curious to know how frogs got these interesting traits. Some say, "It must have taken millions of years, by means of evolution." Those who believe God do not have problems like this, since they know that God, through His Son the Lord Jesus Christ, created everything perfectly. He caused all functions to be passed on without change from generation to generation.

Can you join us in saying, "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created"? Rev. 4:11."'

Look Out - a Rattler!

"The wicked are estranged... speaking lies. Their poison is like the poison of a serpent." Psa. 58:3,4.

Rattlesnakes, 47 kinds of them, are common throughout North America. The largest and deadliest, the eastern diamondback, is as much as eight feet long and as big around as a man's forearm. It is one of a group known as "pit vipers," so named from two cone-shaped pits located in front of each eye and below them. These are sensitive to heat radiated from animals, and this is how it locates them in the dark. During daylight it depends more on keen sight and smell with its flicking tongue helping to pick up odors.

Almost everything is an enemy of the rattler, including many large birds and animals and even some snakes that attack and eat it, so its life is not an easy one. In Prov. 13:15 we are told "the way of transgressors is hard," and in Gal. 6:7 the Scripture says: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Many a boy and girl whose life is full of rebellion has found this to be very true. How happy it is when they express this prayer: "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psa. 51:10.

The first "button" on the snake's rattle grows about ten days after birth, and a new one is added each time it sheds its skin. Usually this happens as much as six or eight times a year.

The rattler's reputation is worse than it deserves. Its main interest in life is to find food, and it does this as quietly as possible. It prefers to hide when a large animal or a human comes along. Unless taken by surprise or provoked, it will seldom attack them. But when surprised, it coils its body and is so tense that its tail vibrates rapidly, making the buttons "rattle." Its action in striking is so fast, the human eye cannot follow it. With its mouth wide open, two long, hollow teeth get into position, the flesh covering them automatically pulls back. These fangs, piercing the flesh, put poison in the wound. Small creatures die quickly. Larger animals seldom die, but have severe pain and learn to stay away from these serpents. When humans are bitten, a medicine (anti-venin) serum) is available in every section of the country. Without this medicine, severe pain and even death could result.

Although rattlesnakes do a great deal of good in killing rats, mice, gophers and other harmful rodents, and although God has provided many special features for them, they still are vicious creatures. We are reminded that the Bible refers to our great enemy as "that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world." Rev. 12:9. But the Lord Jesus, who gave His life on Calvary and destroyed the works of the devil, will turn all who believe on Him "from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins." Acts 26:18. Have you been delivered from the power of Satan's darkness and been brought into the wonderful light of Christ's salvation?

The World's Biggest Snake

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:14,15.

Of the world's more than 2,500 kinds of snakes, the largest are anacondas and boa constrictors living in the swamps and tropical forests of South and Central America, and pythons in southeastern Asia, Africa and India.

The 12-foot boa constrictor is smaller than the 30 to 40 foot anacondas and pythons which are as big around in their middles as a fully grown teenager. All kill their prey by coiling around their bodies and constricting (squeezing) them to death, then swallowing them whole. They do not actually "eat" their food, but draw their hinged, elastic mouths over it, the non-poisonous fangs then pull it into their bodies an inch or two at a time. After a big meal the snake may not eat again for three or four months or more.

The long, flat head of these snakes has no ears. Vibrations and a keen sense of smell, received in part through a flicking tongue, make them aware of what is nearby. They never stop growing, although their skins do. Twice a year a new skin replaces the tight uncomfortable old one which is rubbed off-a startling thing to come across as it lies empty on the grass or on a rocky ledge.

Anacondas and boas give birth to live babies, but pythons lay eggs, incubated by the mother coiling around them. Either way, the "little" ones, as many as six dozen at a time and as much as two feet long at birth, immediately know how to squeeze small victims to death.

The boas spend a great deal of time in water, often with only a small part of their heads showing, waiting for animals to come near. At other times they climb trees to rob bird nests, or stretch out on a low limb to dart down and catch animals passing below. Pythons in their part of the world have similar habits, sometimes tangling with tigers or other big animals. Once they get their coils around their prey they are almost sure to win these battles. But such victims are too big to eat, and these contests only happen when for some reason they attack one another.

These reptiles have a place and purpose in God's creation, but most people find them repulsive, especially so when remembering that in the Bible Satan himself is called "that old serpent, which is the Devil."

When the Israelites in the wilderness spoke against God (Num. 21:4-9), He sent fiery serpents among them and many died. But the Lord did provide a way of escape, telling Moses to place a brass serpent on a pole and any who simply looked on it were healed. This is a type of the Lord Jesus Christ who later died for sinners on Calvary's cross, with the wonderful promise that "whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life," as our opening verse states.

Have you confessed that you are a sinner and looked in faith to the Lord Jesus to save you?

The Loggerhead Turtle

"For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth... all things were created by Him, and for Him." Col. 1:16

If you were on a Caribbean island beach some dark night in early spring or late summer, you might become aware of a number of large creatures coming out of the surf. They drag themselves with much effort over the sand, up and up, until they arrive beyond the highest tidewater point. Curious to know what was taking place, you would (with the aid of a light) find these to be female loggerhead turtles. Each of these brownish-green turtles weighs close to 500 pounds (not as large as the leatherbacks, which weigh up to a ton).

You would find her busily scooping sand with her flippers, making a hole about seven inches wide and almost two feet deep. After an hour of this tiresome work she will rest awhile, then place herself over this nest and proceed to lay her eggs. The eggs will be laid, one by one, every few seconds. They look like ping-pong balls. Usually between one and two hundred are deposited.

After she had finished you would see her scooping the sand back into the hole and patting it dawn firmly. She scatters the excess sand over the area, making it so natural looking that no one would suspect there was a nest below. All this time, looking closely, you might think she is crying, since there are tears running from her eyes. The fact is that this is nature's way of washing out the sand that gets in them. When the job is complete she returns to the sea, soon disappearing in the waves.

In about two months the little ones hatch out. Before hatching, each baby turtle develops an "egg tooth" on the end of its nose. This is used to break out of the shell. It might seem they would die in their deep nest, but they work their way to the surface, which might take several days. As the baby turtles come to the surface, they run as fast as they can toward the ocean. Since they are only about the size of a silver dollar they must run fast, because there are many other creatures waiting to eat them. Birds, crabs, rats and other enemies take after them, and very few• of these baby turtles make it across the beach. In the water there are sharks, fish of all kinds and more birds. Perhaps only half a dozen out of the whole nest manage to survive: In five to eight years they have reached full size. Then they are safe from natural enemies and' live to a ripe old age.

Our lives are not as full of danger as these creatures' lives are. God has graciously provided many benefits for each of us and cares for us most lovingly. He knows all our needs and our activities, too. It is written in the Bible: "Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee." Eccl. 11:9. This is followed by the instruction: "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not." Eccl. 12:1. What excellent God-given advice this is for us to follow!

The Deadly Scorpion

"Light is come into the world, [but] men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." John 3:19.

Those who live in tropical climates or in the deserts of the southern part of the United States try to stay away from scorpions. They know a scorpion sting is very painful and sometimes can be fatal. This creature, which will strike anything it thinks is threatening, fits the description of the above scripture. Although sometimes seen in daylight, it prefers the dark and will scurry to a dark hiding place if light reaches it.

A scorpion looks rather scarey. It has a five to eight-inch jointed body covered with a dark shell which protects it from heat and injury. Its four pairs of legs are covered with hair, and two sharp pincers extend in front. A poisonous stinger is at the end of its tail, usually curled over its back, ready for action. They are not even friendly among themselves and prefer living alone. When an insect comes close the sharp pincers catch it, and the tail arches over its back, plunging the poisonous stinger into its victim.

Some scorpions have as many as twelve eyes, but most have only six or eight. When it moults (sheds its shell), some of these eyes drop off, but they grow back in when the new outer shell is formed. This happens four to eight times in its short life. Its brain is very simple, but it has been given a keen sense of touch through the hairs that cover its body. In addition, the comb-like parts on its abdomen pick up ground vibrations.

When hatching from their eggs, the little ones are exact miniatures of the parents and stay with their mother until their first moulting. She is unusually kind to them and lets them cling to her back, legs and tail. Sometimes there are so many of them that they completely cover her.

We cannot help but marvel at the way God has equipped scorpions with features that allow them to fit so well into their harsh way of life. We know that He has a place for them among all His other creation. He has even made them helpful to mankind in one way-they destroy many harmful insects.

But they also remind us of those people who are without God in their lives, of whom the Bible says that "denying the Lord that bought them:..bring upon themselves swift destruction." We are further told that these same people "speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption." 2 Peter 2:1,12. What a sad contrast these are to those who through faith claim the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. To these the promise is to know "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, (which) shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:7.

This is what God desires for everyone, because He is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9. Are you one of these happy people?

The Adaptable Lizard

"These also shall be unclean unto you among the creeping things... the chameleon, and the lizard." Lev. 11:29,30.

Although declared by God in the Old Testament of the Bible as "unclean" and not to be eaten, the 3000 varieties of lizards are very much a part of God's creation and care. They are found just about everywhere in the world except the Antarctic. They usually make their homes in warm, rocky spots, but sometimes in trees or in water.

The chameleon and most other lizards can actually change the color of their leathery skin when they want to, even showing stripes like a zebra or sometimes mixing colors like an autumn leaf. They can also shed their entire tail when attacked. The wriggling, separated section attracts the enemy's attention while its owner escapes. Soon a new tail grows back. Every lizard has a long, sticky tongue for catching flies and other insects.

Each lizard has been especially designed by the Creator to fit into its surroundings. Those on rocky cliffs have needle-sharp claws and hang onto rocks so tightly, that if forced off, their claws remain behind. They also have special scales under their tails to help them cling to steep surfaces. Tree-climbing monitors and iguanas, which have special toes for climbing, also use monkey tricks, like climbing and swinging by grasping tree limbs with their tails. These lizards also are well hidden, being colored like bark or leaves.

Those species that live in the desert are colored like the sand or rocks and often change color as they move about. Burrowing species have wedge-shaped heads, and their ears and nostrils are protected from the sand by clever shields. They have tough scales on their feet to help dig, and some even have shovel-shaped feet for this purpose. Some of these can "swim" through sand as fast as a fish swims through water.

Flying lizards glide from tree to tree. They are provided with webs of skin, like flying squirrels. One, the flying dragon, looks like a colored leaf traveling through the air. Another, the gecko, can shed its skin to escape an attacker, and it also makes long leaps through the air.

Many lizards can make short runs at more than 15 miles per hour and sometimes rise on their hind legs when running. Several species easily adapt themselves to mankind and often scamper over the walls, ceilings and floors of houses.

The ability of all these little creatures to do these things is another example of the wonders of God's creation, yet not one of them is able to think about the Lord God who created it and takes care of it "by the word of His power."

While the Lord God cares for all His creation, it is only to man that He has said, "I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee." Jer. 31:3. Have you responded to that loving-kindness that wants you to come to Him? He wants to forgive all your sins. All you have to do is come in faith and accept Him as your Savior.

The Desert Tortoise Takes Its House With It

"But be ye glad and rejoice forever in that which I create." Isa. 65:18

The desert tortoise, with its 12-inch-diameter arched shell, elephant-like hind legs, flat feet and short tail, lives in the deserts of California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona. It is an expert at digging, often digging burrows up to 30 feet long where it can hibernate for six months or more during the winter.

Some of these tortoises have been known to live well over 50 years. How do they find enough food to stay alive year after year in this harsh climate? We might not find much to eat in the desert, but the tortoises feed on the plants that grow there-grass, flowers, wild fruit, certain shrubs and even the prickly desert cactus. Sometimes snails and insects are a part of their diet, too. But if food is scarce they can fast (not eat) for a month without harm. They hunt for food only in the cool hours of the morning and evening, crawling into their burrows or resting in the shade at other times.

The tortoise, though wondrously designed by the Creator to withstand fierce desert heat, does need water, which is a scarce item in the desert. God has given their bodies the ability to get all the water they need from the vegetation they eat. Of course, they drink water whenever they find it, usually from pools left by rainstorms, but that does not happen very often.

Early in June the female digs a dirt burrow nest several inches deep, making a cavern under the hard surface soil. Her eggs (about 10 of them) look like Ping-Pong balls. As each one drops into the nest, she packs dirt around it. Then she fills the whole nest with dirt, tamping it down and smoothing it over so it is cleverly concealed. From then on the eggs are "on their own," as are the young tortoises which hatch about 100 days later. It is amazing how they can hatch underground and stay alive as they dig their way to the surface. The Creator, whose eye is on every living thing, takes care of them even though we do not understand how He does it.

The newly hatched tortoises are exact miniatures of their parents and are about the size of a half-dollar. They have soft shells and need to hide or run quickly to avoid being eaten by vultures, coyotes and snakes. As their shells harden they become like a piece of armor. They soon learn that they have no need to fear harm from their enemies, and so they just go about the desert slowly and peacefully.

The world in which we live is often compared to a desert, too, in spite of all its glamor and attractions. God's enemies, encouraged by Satan, seem to be increasing daily. Yet, for those who love Him and know His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as their own Savior, He has provided an armor to protect from all evil. (See Eph. 6:10-17.) The important thing is not just to know that the armor is provided, but as it says, "Put on the whole armor of God" (verse 11). Are you doing this?

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