Using Nature to Teach Every Subject: A Biblical Approach

From the beginning of time, God has used nature to reveal His truth to mankind. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." When we look at the world around us, we see the fingerprints of our Creator woven into every subject we teach. Whether it’s history, science, mathematics, or even moral truth, nature offers a living classroom that points back to God’s design.

History Through God’s Creation

Nature has inspired some of the greatest human achievements throughout history. Take the Wright brothers, for example. These two pioneers of flight closely observed birds to understand how aerodynamics worked. They studied God’s creation, realizing that birds' wings were perfectly designed for lift and flight. By applying these natural principles, they developed the first successful airplane, forever changing human transportation. Their achievement reminds us that God has already placed solutions in His creation—we just need to look and learn.

Another example is bioengineering. Scientists and engineers often mimic designs found in nature to create medical and technological advancements. From Velcro (inspired by burrs sticking to animal fur) to the design of wind turbine blades modeled after whale fins, humans continue to learn from God’s creation. This field of study, called biomimicry, is a testament to the intelligence of our Creator, showing how His perfect design provides wisdom for scientific and technological progress.

Teaching Absolute Truth Through Nature and the Bible

Nature also teaches us about absolute truth—something our world desperately needs. Just as the laws of nature remain fixed, so does God’s Word. Gravity does not change based on personal feelings, and neither does the truth of Scripture. Jesus said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." The structure and order found in nature reflect the consistency of God’s truth.

For example, the changing of the seasons reminds us of God’s faithfulness. Genesis 8:22 states, "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." Just as we can count on the sun rising and setting each day, we can trust in the unchanging nature of God and His Word. By studying nature alongside Scripture, students gain a firm foundation in biblical truth.

Mathematics in Creation: The Fibonacci Sequence

Math is often thought of as a purely human invention, but it is actually a discovery of the order God has placed in creation. One of the most fascinating examples is the Fibonacci sequence, a series of numbers found repeatedly in nature. This sequence, where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, etc.), appears in the arrangement of sunflower seeds, the spirals of pinecones, and even the proportions of the human body.

This mathematical pattern is a clear reflection of divine order. Romans 1:20 states, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made." When we teach math through nature, we are not merely teaching numbers; we are revealing the intricate design of our Creator.

Bringing It All Together

Using nature as a tool to teach every subject not only deepens academic understanding but also strengthens faith. Whether studying history through the achievements of those inspired by creation, learning absolute truth from God’s order in the natural world, or exploring mathematics through divine patterns, students see that all knowledge ultimately points back to God.

As Christian educators and parents, we have a unique opportunity to bring our children closer to God by using His creation as our classroom. When we teach through the lens of Scripture, we are not just educating minds—we are discipling hearts for the glory of God. Let us embrace the lessons that nature provides, for in them, we find the wisdom, creativity, and truth of our Heavenly Father.

On the Podcast

For even more on a nature-based homeschool, check out this podcast episode with Eryn Lynum!

What if nature could be your best homeschool curriculum? In this episode of Super Simple Homeschool, I’m joined by Eryn Lynum to talk about the beauty and simplicity of a nature-based homeschool—where the outdoors isn’t just a subject but the foundation of learning.

We discuss how you can use nature study to teach any subject, from math to language arts, while helping your children form deep, meaningful connections with what they’re learning. Eryn shares practical ways to let nature take the lead, making homeschooling feel less overwhelming and more organic.

If you’re ready to simplify your homeschool while sparking curiosity, wonder, and a love of learning in your kids, this episode is for you!

🔗Resources & Links:

• Connect with Eryn at ErynLynum.com

• Check out the Nat Theo Podcast and Join the Nat Theo Club!

• Nat Theo episode on Math in Nature

• Nat Theo episode, How Do Birds Fly?

• Rooted in Wonder

• Nature of Rest

• Johannes Kepler: Giant of Faith and Science