Natural, Supernatural, Miraculous

The difference is emphasis. Natural law is normal, which is expected. Supernatural is beyond normal. Miraculous is also beyond normal with an emphasis upon unexpected. Natural law is supported by the scientific method of reproducibility, which both secular and sacred admit. Supernatural is beyond the scope of science, at least until the discovery of consistent, reproducible natural law explanations. Miraculous is beyond the scope of physics with an emphasis upon unexpected. Creation can only be miraculous, since a supernatural Creator speaks the world into existence. “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear” (Hebrews 11:3 KJV). Natural laws are the rules to which nature must comply; however, supernatural interaction with the natural world can modify outcomes, when applied. Miracles are directed from the supernatural often unexpectedly with unexpected outcomes. Humanity irrespective of religious or philosophical persuasion is subject to natural law. Supernatural beings both of the Creator and against the Creator may interact with the natural world, but subject to the Creator and conforming to the necessities of their being. Miracles also may interact with the natural realm, but especially are subject to the will of the Creator. “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:11p-12). 

Ice Cubes Shouldn’t Float

“By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast” (Job 37:10 ESV). If supernatural means defying the laws of physics, then a floating ice cube would be supernatural. Okay, maybe not as impressive as God speaking the world into existence ex nihilo or promising with a rainbow never to destroy the world again with a flood. In physics, we expect the solid form of a substance to be more dense than its liquid form. However, the solid crystalline form of water is less dense than its liquid phase, causing ice to float, seemingly defying the laws of physics. The polar ice caps consequently float, instead of sinking to the bottom, and freezing the earth’s oceans from the bottom up. Living water is the basic molecule of life on earth. Humanity needs to pay more attention to our Creator. LORD, we have willingly forgotten You as the source of all blessings. May we repent and return in worship and gratitude to You our Faithful Creator. Amen and amen.