The existence of life depends upon a substance which chemists call the universal solvent. This magnificent molecule, with its many unique properties, is ordinary water. Unlike almost all other liquids which contract upon changing from liquid to solid, water stops contracting and starts expanding at 4 degrees C. This results in solid water (ice) being less dense (lighter) than liquid water. Thus lakes and rivers freeze from the top down instead of from the bottom up. If lakes froze from the bottom up, life within every lake in a freezing climate would be destroyed.
Water also has a unique ability to conduct electricity at just the right resistance to make the processes of life possible within cells. In addition, its unique surface tension insulates some animals, while its inability to mix with body oils insulates other animals by keeping them dry. Water is only one of the special substances that God created to enhance and enable life.
From the properties of the smallest molecule to the complex interrelated systems of life, the entire universe has every appearance of being designed to work together in perfect harmony. This is one of many ways in which creation provides a vivid testimony to our Creator's attention to the details of life.
From A Closer Look at the Evidence by Kleiss, January 5.
