God doesn’t just form. He fills.

On Day Five, empty waters and open skies are filled with life in motion, created to multiply and give praise.

“And God said, ‘Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the heavens.’” (Genesis 1:20 ESV)

This is the first mention of living beings in creation. And the Hebrew word for “living creatures” is nephesh — soul, breath, life-force. Not just motion, but vitality. God fills the emptiness with life that moves, breathes, and glorifies.

The waters swarm. The skies stretch with wings. Life doesn’t trickle in — it bursts forth. Creation echoes with energy and song.

And then, for the first time in Scripture, God speaks a blessing over what He made:

“And God blessed them, saying, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters… and let birds multiply on the earth.’” (Genesis 1:22 ESV)

This blessing reveals something important: movement and multiplication are God’s idea. He doesn’t just create life, He commissions it. He speaks purpose into what He makes.

That same rhythm echoes in us. We were never meant to stay stagnant or self-contained. We were created to bear fruit, to fill, to reflect the blessing of the One who breathed us into being.

If your life feels dry or directionless, remember Day Five. The God who filled the seas and skies can fill you again with movement, purpose, and praise.

REFLECT

• Are you living with the awareness that your breath is a gift from God?
• Where might God be calling you to multiply — not just in numbers, but in influence, love, or joy?
• Are there areas of your life that feel empty, where you need God to fill?

PRAYER

Lord, You are the giver of life, the One who fills the emptiness with Your provision. Breathe on me again. Stir movement where I’ve grown still. Multiply what brings You glory in me. Let my life be full of Your blessing and alive with Your purpose. Amen.