The Bible consistently affirms God's sovereign control over the natural world, portraying Him as the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This divine authority extends to every aspect of nature, from the weather to the animal kingdom, and is a testament to His omnipotence and wisdom.

Creation and Sustenance

The foundational assertion of God's control over nature begins with the creation narrative. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This verse establishes God as the ultimate source of all that exists. The creation account continues to describe how God spoke the various elements of the natural world into existence, demonstrating His authority over them.

In the New Testament, Colossians 1:16-17 reinforces this idea: "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage highlights not only God's role in creation but also His ongoing involvement in sustaining the universe.

Weather and Natural Events

Scripture frequently attributes control over weather and natural events to God. In the book of Job, God challenges Job with questions that underscore His command over nature: "Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or observed the storehouses of hail...?" (Job 38:22). This rhetorical question emphasizes God's intimate knowledge and control over meteorological phenomena.

The Psalms also celebrate God's dominion over the elements. Psalm 147:15-18 declares, "He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly. He spreads the snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes; He hurls down His hail like pebbles. Who can withstand His icy blast? He sends forth His word and melts them; He stirs up His breezes, and the waters flow." These verses poetically describe God's active role in directing the weather.

Miraculous Interventions

Throughout the Bible, God demonstrates His control over nature through miraculous interventions. One of the most notable examples is the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14:21-22, where "Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the LORD drove the sea back by a strong east wind all night and turned it into dry land." This event illustrates God's power to manipulate natural forces for His purposes.

In the New Testament, Jesus, as God incarnate, exercises authority over nature. In Mark 4:39, Jesus calms a storm with a command: "He got up and rebuked the wind and the sea. 'Silence!' He said. 'Be still!' And the wind died down, and it was perfectly calm." This miracle reveals Jesus' divine authority and control over the natural world.

Animal Kingdom

God's sovereignty extends to the animal kingdom as well. In Jonah 1:17, God appoints a great fish to swallow Jonah, demonstrating His control over the creatures of the sea. Similarly, in Daniel 6:22, God sends an angel to shut the mouths of the lions, protecting Daniel in the den.

The Psalms often reflect on God's care for animals, as seen in Psalm 104:27-29: "All creatures look to You to give them their food in due season. When You give it to them, they gather it up; when You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good things. When You hide Your face, they are terrified; when You take away their breath, they die and return to dust." These verses acknowledge God's provision and control over the life and death of all living beings.

Purpose and Providence

God's control over natural phenomena serves His divine purposes and reflects His providential care for creation. Romans 8:28 assures believers that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This includes the natural events that occur in the world, which are ultimately under His sovereign direction.

In summary, the Bible presents a consistent and comprehensive view of God's control over natural phenomena, affirming His role as Creator, Sustainer, and Sovereign over all creation. His authority over nature is a testament to His power, wisdom, and providential care.