If I asked you what color a polar bear’s fur is, what would you say? Most people might answer “white,” but the truth is far more surprising—and it holds an incredible lesson for us about how God sustains life in even the harshest places.

Let’s explore this surprising fact about polar bears and uncover the ways God’s light helps all His creation thrive.

Free Arctic Animal Coloring Sheet

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This lesson is made possible by: Apologia curriculum — Explore Apologia’s award-winning science curriculum.

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What Color Is a Polar Bear’s Fur?

At first glance, a polar bear looks white as it moves through the snowy Arctic landscape. But its fur is not actually white. Each strand of fur is clear and hollow, reflecting and scattering light, which makes the bear appear white against the snow.

Even more fascinating is what’s underneath that fur—black skin. This black skin absorbs and traps the sun’s warmth, helping polar bears survive in the freezing Arctic temperatures.

This ingenious design showcases God’s creativity and provision, ensuring that polar bears can live well in one of Earth’s most unforgiving environments.

God’s Provision in the Arctic

The Arctic is a land of extremes, with temperatures plunging far below freezing and daylight varying dramatically between seasons. Yet, it is home to a wide array of creatures that thrive because of God’s perfect design.

• Birds like the rock ptarmigan rely on dense, insulated feathers and waterproof oils to endure the cold.
• Some Mammals have thick fur, blubber or back fat, and color-changing camouflage fur to survive and thrive.

Each of these animals reflects God’s provision and care, reminding us that no detail is too small for our Creator.

The Light That Sustains Life

Polar bears aren’t the only ones that depend on light to live. The sun, created by God on the fourth day, is vital for all living things:

1. Plants use sunlight to create energy through photosynthesis, supporting life at every level of the food chain.
2. Humans benefit from sunlight through vitamin D, which strengthens our bones and immune system, and by regulating our sleep and energy cycles.
3. Animals like reptiles use sunlight to warm their bodies, while creatures like polar bears rely on it indirectly through their skin and fur.

Without light, life on Earth would be impossible.

The True Light That Gives Life

Just as the sunlight is essential for life on Earth, Jesus is essential for our spiritual lives. The Bible calls Him the “true light.”

• John 1:9 says, “The true light that gives light to all was coming into the world.”
• John 1:4 tells us, “In him there was life, and that life was the light of all people.”

Jesus came to earth to give us life—not just physical life, but abundant and eternal life. His light shines into our darkness, transforming us and helping us reflect His goodness to others.

Living as Children of Light

When we allow Jesus’s light to fill our lives, we are changed. His light brings truth, joy, and purpose, enabling us to live in a way that honors God and blesses others.

• Ephesians 5:8-9 reminds us: “In the past you were full of darkness, but now you are full of light in the Lord. So live like children who belong to the light. Light brings every kind of goodness, right living, and truth.”

Just as sunlight helps a polar bear thrive in the Arctic, Jesus’s light helps us thrive in life’s challenges. His presence warms and sustains us, even in the harshest seasons.

Reflecting the Light

Think about how the polar bear’s fur reflects light, making it appear white against the snow. In a similar way, we are called to reflect the light of Jesus to those around us. When His love and truth shine through us, others can see His glory and goodness.

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A Final Thought
The next time you see a picture of a polar bear or feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, take a moment to thank God for His incredible designs in nature and for the gift of His Son, the true light.

Just like the polar bear thrives in the Arctic because of its unique design, you can thrive in life when you let God’s light shine into your heart and guide your steps.