10 Fall Outdoor Activities to Grow Closer to God & Each Other

Sep 22

Sep 22 10 Fall Outdoor Activities to Grow Closer to God & Each Other

After a tough work week, wouldn't it be great to enjoy a God-inspired finale: rest?

Fall is the ideal time to enjoy the simple things in life, because the secret to simplicity comes from our ability to rest. The breeze is just crisp enough to take our breath away, with the sun reflecting leftover warm summer rays against the amber colors of fall.

Just as Fall brings beauty and comfort, going outdoors frees up pockets of relational opportunity. We make room for God to speak to us apart from productivity. We remember how great it feels to laugh, smile, or just enjoy some quiet with others.

Being outdoors in the Fall reminds us that we can rest, because God is our rest.

We see God's artistry in the randomness of acorns starting to carpet nature's floor. We hear the soothing sounds of waves that sing to a Creator's rhythm. We look up to drink in an overflowing painted canvas of sky, bringing a breeze of musty leaves mixed with soil and sand.

“The whole earth is at rest and is quiet; They break forth into shouts of joy.” Isaiah 14:7

You'd be surprised. It is easy to talk about God once you're out in nature. You don't even have to plan any object lessons (feel free if you're so inclined!). Your heart opens up to them naturally. And so will theirs.

As for growing closer to God, children experience love and intimacy through spending time with their parents. There is a time and place for teaching Biblical principles, reading Scripture, and praying together. For us, spending time outdoors is focused on relational closeness, the glue that makes the reality of God stick on their hearts and reach into their souls.

Being outdoors is a great way for children to experience quietness, without television, music, or anything electronic. It sets the stage for quiet walks with God later as they grow older. When they can read and write, there will be opportunities to carry a journal and a Bible verse and do some journaling.

To see this entire post and Bonnie's list of 10 suggested Fall activities for families, go here.