July 2009 Seaside Devotions Archive
July 31, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, two tiny sandpipers were running together along the sand. They were playing, stopping to look at one another, then off to play again.
I thought of how God said, "Two are better than one." I thought of how much stronger we are when we are joined with someone to stand with us, to pray with us. Sometimes just their very presence seems to make the situation better and our spirits stronger, even when there seems to be no apparent solution at that moment. All it takes is one word from them, to lift our spirits and strengthen us for whatever we may be facing that day!
It is the same way with God. Surely our Father knew how He made us -- not to be alone. After all, that is why He created man . . . so He could have fellowship with us. And He is with us always, never leaving us, so we are truly never alone.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know that His presence in our lives makes us powerful, with the ability to do all things. He is our ever present hope and help in this life, and we can rejoice knowing that He created us to walk together with Him and with others around us. Be strengthened today and rejoice in this knowledge -- you are never alone!
Psalm 68:19 -- "Praise the Lord, God our Savior who helps us every day!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 30, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my heart sang for joy as I felt the water splashing on my feet. It was like Jesus was there playing in the sand with me . . . it was a joy of love and laughter in my soul that had overtaken everything else in my life.
It is truly amazing how, no matter where we have been, or what we have been through, Jesus has the amazing ability to wipe away all our tears, all our hurts and disappointments once we decide to turn it all over to Him. He heals our hearts, and fills our life with joy and hope. He makes a way when there seems to be no way!
How about you, my friend? Have you had hurts, disappointments that seemed overwhelming? Have you lost a loved one, been through a divorce, had a relationship that was devastating, or lost finances? Take heart today and know you have a solution with Jesus. He is the answer to every problem we have. He is the way to life!
As you walk your seashore of life today, have this confidence that He is there for you! He wants to restore all that has been stolen and give you life and life more abundantly! Never give up -- He is there for you and only has good plans for your life!
Jeremiah 29:11 -- "For I know the plans I have for you, plans for success, not for calamity, plans for a hope and a future."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 29, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I am always amazed at how the sandpipers never fret about finding food or provision. They just run about the beach, finding everything they need. And then I think of how we worry so much about our own provision.
There was a time in Israel when the rains stopped flowing for three years. Because of that, there was no wheat to the fields to make flour or olives to make oil.
It was a very difficult time for everyone -- particularly for one widow who was especially committed to serving God. Yet God made sure that she and her son had enough to eat because they did all He asked.
God always provides for those who love and do as He says. So today as you walk your seashore of life, do not fear lean days. Rather, rejoice that His provision never ends. Obey Him and you will be amazed at how He keeps the flour and oil flowing.
1 Kings 17:14 -- "Your jar of flour won't run out and your bottle of oil won't dry up before He sends rain for the crops."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 28, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I am fully aware of the seasons beginning to change again as we move into the next month of summer and harvest time will arrive. Harvest time in the spirit as well is fast approaching.
It brought to mind the farmer that has to be prepared every year for his harvest. Farmers undoubtedly grow weary of plowing the same land every year, especially the spots that consistently give them trouble. However, they know that if they want to see a harvest, they must do the work.
You may be experiencing something similar today -- the plowing of territory you have been over before -- repeatedly teaching you the same valuable lessons. You are assured of a good result if you persevere and trust God.
Remember this as you walk your seashore of life . . . you are promised an even more pleasant harvest than the farmer because God is growing a good character in you. The harvest in you will be one that lasts forever.
Hebrews 12:11 -- "All discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 27, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I picked up a stone that had been smoothed over time with the waves beating against it over the years . . . day after day.
I thought of how God's word smooths us out, after washing us year after year . . . as we come to see who we really are. It is an interesting paradox that the closer you grow to God, the less convinced you become of your own goodness. That is because as your acquaintance with Him increases, the more He reveals what you could be . . . the excellent person He is making you into.
And the greater your feelings of unworthiness at aspiring to His wonderful character, the more He assures you that the seeds of true godliness have taken root in you and are evidenced by your humility.
Part of God's goodness is how He develops you into the very best you can be. So today as you walk your seashore of life, praise Him for providing every tool you need to get there.
2 Peter 1:3 -- "His divine power has given us everything required for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 26, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I couldn't help but notice how the ocean creatures all worked together . . . the sea gulls, the peligans, the sandpipers . . . never worrying about what the others are doing. It seems to be a wonderful way to live.
I compared that to how we live in today's culture . . . always comparing ourselves to others, never forgetting when others have wronged us. It seems so easy to remember the wrongs that have been done, rather than the right and good things. We want to remember the negatives, and not the positives.
However, that is absolutely not true with God. When you believe in Him, He promises to forever erase any instance that you have fallen short. And He remembers and celebrates all the good things you have done out of love. Isn't that incredible? He does not forget one good deed that you have done for His sake!
As you walk your seashore of life today, know that you are in His Kingdom and walking free of any sin or wrong doings because of your Heavenly Father's love and forgiveness! Rejoice that the thoughts He has toward you are and always will be -- outstanding!
Hebrews 6:10 -- "God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love you have shown toward His name."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 25, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my thoughts were taken back to the loss of my dear husband three years ago. I also thought of how God has redeemed me and restored my life with new things, new friends, new joy -- so many things have been added to my life since that time.
I know another man who lost his beautiful wife in a tragic accident more than ten years ago, and he's still grieving today! I tried to encourage him, but he constantly made excuses, blaming God, blaming other people. I realized that he didn't really want to get well. He liked the attention that it got him. He became known as "the man who lost his wife." He even had several newspaper articles about that accident lying on his coffee table to remind him of the pains of the past. Sadly, he let his tragedy become his identity. To this day he is lving a deprssed and defeated life. He allowed a season of mourning to turn into a lifetime of mourning.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know that God wants to give us new beginnings, but He can't until we let go of the old.
Revelation 21:5 -- "He who was seated on the throne said, 'I am making everything new!'"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 24, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed a woman sitting on the sand that seemed really sad. I stopped to talk to her to see if I could cheer her up and help her through the difficult situation she had just come out of. Her attitude seemed to change, even as we shared about the situation.
I thought of how God instructed Samuel after the death of Saul. He gave clear instructions to Samuel when He said, "If you will quit mourning over Saul and get going, I'll show you a new, better beginning." Yes, Saul was God's first choice, but God always has another plan (aren't you glad?). Notice what God told Samuel to do: "Fill your horn with oil." Have a fresh new attitude. Put a smile on your face. Get the spring back in your step and be on your way.
If Samuel had wallowed in his disappointment, he might have missed King David, one of the greatest Kings in the Bible. Similarly, we risk missing out on the new things God wants to do in our lives when we stay in our pity parties.
Remember as you walk your seashore of life today, God has a better plan for you! It's time to get going for Jesus in this new day!
1 Samuel 16:1 -- "The Lord said to Samuel, '. . . Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sendnig you to Jesse of Bethelehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.'"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 23, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a fishing boat come close to shore. I could envision Peter getting out of the boat and walking toward Jesus. What a step of faith!
How about you, friend . . . do you look beyond where you are at this very moment? Do you look upon your life with eyes of faith? Thing of it this way: when we close our eyes, we should see more than we do when we have our eyes open. This is called seeing with eyes of faith. See your whole family serving God. See yourself rising to new levels of effectiveness in your life. See yourself stronger, healthier, and living a more abundant life. See God using you in a greater way.
Take a few minutes every day to dream big dreams; close your eyes, and see your dreams coming to pass with your eyes of faith. Envision yourself out of debt. Envision yourself breaking that addiction. Envision your marriage being more fulfilled. Envision yourself rising to new levels in your career.
As you walk your seashore of life today, if you can establish the pictures in your heart and mind that you desire, then God can begin to bring it to pass in your life.
Revelation 3:18 -- "I counsel you to buy from me . . . salve to put on your eyes, so you can see."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 22, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a crane with red fishing wire entangled around his legs. I wanted to help him get free, but he would not allow me to get close.
Is this the way we do with God at times? We are entangled in situations in the world, and yet we will not allow God to come near us, to help us, when all the while, He is there waiting to set us free. If only we would turn to Him in times of distress.
When we don't know what to do, the Word says to pray, and believe. Can you do that with whatever situation you are dealing with today? Can you take that problem and lay it at Jesus feet and leave it there -- trusting Him to do what only He can do? Or do you want to keep it and worry and fret, losing your peace trying to find a solution when He holds the answer in His hands.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, turn lose of that problem you are trying to solve. Take it to Jesus, and leave it there. Don't go back and pick it up -- but rejoice in the fact that He hears and answers your prayers. And He says, "We always triumph in Jesus Christ!" What a wonderful promise . . . just receive it today.
Psalm 91:14 -- "Because He has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 21, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the water covered my feet so gently. I thought of the gentleness of how God helps us through the hurts of our past and how He erases the pain and fills our hearts with joy every day.
When I compared the joy of the present with the past hurt, it seemed almost as those things never happened. My friend, our God is bigger than our past, our disappointments, and our problems. We may have made a lot of mistakes, but God can turn those things all around. People may have hurt you and done you wrong, but if you'll leave it up to God, He'll pay you back. He'll make your wrongs right. Start focusing on your possibilities. Let hope fill your heart today.
Remember as you walk your seashore of life today, no matter what you've been through, God is saying there are great days ahead for you and for me. Say, "I'm not going to be a prisoner of my past. I had enough. I'm going to stop focusing on my disappointments and move forward with my life." Declare this today and put the devil on the run. God will give you a new beginning.
Psalm 16:11 -- "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 20, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a sandpiper take a fish away from another that had struggled to get the fish out of the water. One had done the fighting and the other took it from him. That didn't seem quite fair to me.
I thought of situations in my life at times, that did not seem quite fair. But God has promised that if you will put your trust in Him to bring about the justice in your life, He will pay you back for all the unfair things that have happened to you. Isaiah 61:7-9 tells us so. That means you don't have to go around trying to pay everybody back for the wrong things they have done to you. God is your vindicator. Let Him fight your battles for you.
When you truly understand that you don't have to fix everything that happens to you, you don't have to try to manipulate the situation or control the circumstances or people involved. Remember as you walk your seashore of life today, when you leave it up to God to pay you back, you take the high road, respond in love, and watch what God will do. Remember, God always pays back abundantly.
Romans 12:19 -- "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God's wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay says the Lord."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 19, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a fish swirling about . . . in a circle. This is not the normal, because they usually are swimming up or down the wave of the ocean, but not in a circle. It did not make sense to me.
I thought of sometimes when reading the Bible it just doesn't seem to make sense. I can easily comprehend the stories, but something about them will not connect. I feel as if there might be a point that is just beyond my reach.
It will almost be as if a voice witin myself is asking, "Do you understand this?"
I believe this is God's spirit stretching us. He will bring the story or lesson back to my mind repeatedly in order to clarify a truth that I need to know. Have you experienced this?
Today as you walk your seashore of life, if there is some passage of the Bible that has you stumped, rejoice. It is probably a principle that God's spirit is trying to teach you in a special way. That is the way our Father teaches us.
Acts 8:30 -- "Do you understand what you are reading?"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 18, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the dolphins playing in the water . . . side by side . . . jumping and enjoying the wonderful ocean they live in. It was a sight to see.
I thought about us, and how God really wants us to be like His children -- free and trusting Him to do what He says He will do. This means He wants us to be able to enjoy our freedom as His children on our bad days as well as our good days. After all, it takes no faith at all to have fun and frolic about when things are going great! This is not a challenge -- to trust when things are good. Anyone can do that.
How are you on the days everything seems to be going wrong? Are you still His child? Are you still joint heir to His Kingdom? Are you still in His care? Of course you are, so why not enjoy the challenging days as well. He is still on the throne and when we learn to relax in that fact, we will be like the dolphins -- always enjoying the wonderful ocean of life we are created to enjoy.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know your heavenly Father loves you and wants you to enjoy your life. He has provided life and life more abundantly. So make every day count and don't let circumstances steal your joy! Rejoice in each day He gives you life to live. Play like the dolphins and spread the joy to others.
John 10:10 -- "I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 17, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I see the blessings He showers us with everywhere I look. I can't help but wonder if Jesus ever gets tired of giving us incredible blessings every day and we forget to appreciate them or say "thank you."
Every day we are able to get up, and breath, walk, laugh, cry, be joyful, and see the amazing creation our Father has placed all around us -- especially the beautiful beach, we should shout from our rooftops how thankful we are to Him.
Yet I know there are days we awake and never even think of how wonderful He has been to us . . . the fact that He died for us and that we can live forever, and enjoy the wonderful life here on the earth, surrounded with His beauty and favor. How sad that must make Him.
As you walk your seashore of life today, don't forget to add those words "thank you" to your vocabulary. Lift your voice to Him and sing praises for all He has done for you and for all He has planned in your future. He loves you and has given you everything pertaining to life -- so enjoy every day and let Him know how very grateful you are! He is worthy of our praise!!!
Psalm 68: 19 -- "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 16, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my thoughts were quieted by the calmness of the ocean. Today it seemed tame and peaceful, as our spirits should be when we are walking with Him, trusting Him for our every need.
How restless we become when we take over our own lives, and forget that He has every detail covered from beginning to end. He is the author and finisher of our faith, and He knows the beginning from the end. That is what the Word of God says.
My question to you is -- do you believe Him and take Him at His Word or do you have doubt? He says that if we doubt, we will not have our prayers answered.
So, as you walk your seashore of life today, ask yourself this question. "Do I trust Him and take Him at His Word, or do I trust myself, and my resources?" Make the right choice and trust Him. He has the answers and the provisions. Then you will live in peace, trusting Him for every need.
Jeremiah 17: 7-8 -- "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters which spreads out its roots by the river and will not fear when heat comes but its leaf will be green. And will not be anxious in the year of drought nor will cease from yielding fruit."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 15, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a huge sting ray jump out of the water . . . something I had never seen before. It was an amazing and unusual sight! This was certainly not the normal activity of a sting ray.
The Holy Spirit began speaking to me . . . "I am doing a new thing." The sting ray's nature is to stay in shallow water on the bottom of the sand, moving slowly about not jumping out of the water, wildly lashing about. Also, the sting ray does not use his "eyes" to find his food, but feels the electric fields about him.
This is the way the Holy Spirit speaks to us, not by what we see, but by what our spirit is saying to us. Are you listening with your spirit or are you listening to what you see? This is how our Father leads us, by our spirit. Those who listen with their spirits are the ones He is using in this day and in this time.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know He is leading you by your spirit and hear what the Spirit is saying. He has new ways of doing things in the time we are living in and is breaking us away from old habits, old ways and doing new things! Be prepared for an exciting and fresh walk with Jesus!
Isaiah 43:18-19 -- "Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 14, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, it seemed as though the ocean was raging, even though so many times I see it so peaceful. It usually has a calming effect on me, but today the raging seemed to be transferred to my spirit.
That is how the enemy comes into our lives, through our thought lives. Whether or not you are aware of it, war is raging all around you today, and the battle is always for your mind. Your enemy's number one target is the arena of your thoughts. If he can control how you think, he will be able to control your entire life. Indeed, thoughts determine actions, attitudes, and self-image. Really, thoughts determine destiny, which is why the Bible warns us to guard our thoughts.
Don't ever start your day in neutral. Today as you walk your seashore of life, set your mind on the right course by agreeing with the Psalmist, "This is the day the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it." I will be happy, I will be productive, I will accomplish great things for the Lord today. And the enemy will not have control over my thoughts. Magnify your God and go out expecting great things every day! Remember, the battle is in your mind!!!
Isaiah 26:3 -- "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 13, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed a monumental sandcastle that the children had built. It looked more like a "mountain" of sand than a sandcastle . . . a big, big mountain of sand.
It brought the scripture to mind regarding "speaking to our mountains", Mark 11:23-23. What mountain is in front of you today -- a relationship, a job, sickness, financial concerns, a floundering business? Jesus said that whatever your mountain is, you must do more than think or pray about it; you must speak to that obstacle -- whatever it might be.
The Bible says, "Let the weakling say, 'I am strong'" (Joel 3:10). Start calling yourself healed, happy, whole, blessed and prosperous. God is truly a miracle-working God. We must stop talking to God about how big our mountains are, and start talking to the mountains about how big our God is. They shall be cast into the sea! Watch and see . . .
Mark 11:23-24 -- "Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be taken up and cast into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him. Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted to you."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 12, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the people coming from everywhere to enjoy the beautiful beach for the summer months. Most of them are blessed and fortunate enough to afford a beautiful summer getaway. And I couldn't help but wonder if any of them are needy in other ways -- not financially, but in other ways -- maybe emotionally or spiritually.
I thought about the word that says it is both good and scriptural to give to the poor -- they should be one of your primary concerns. Look for people who are needy and bless them. Share what you have with those who are less fortunate.
But it is also good to remember that everyone needs blessings -- even the rich, the successful, and those who "appear" to have everything. What you buy or do for these people is not the real issue; they may not need the gift, but they need the love.
We all get weary sometimes and need to be encouraged, edified, complimented, and appreciated. This can be done with words alone, but it is a nice gesture to spend time with them, or give a personal gift when appropriate or even just a smile.
Remember as you walk your seashore of life, God blesses you so you can be a blessing -- not only in a few places but everywhere you go!
2 Corinthians 9:9 -- "He scatters abroad; He gives to the poor; His deeds of justice and goodness and kindness and benevolence will go on and endure forever."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 11, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt the joy of the Lord in my soul as I felt the waves splashing on my feet. I felt He had created the ocean just for me to enjoy on this day.
Do you feel the joy of the Lord in your spirit or are you carrying ashes from the past with you daily? The Lord says in His word that God wants to give consolation and joy -- beauty instead of ashes -- for those who mourn. But in order for Him to do that you must let go of the ashes of your past.
Some people have their loved ones cremated and keep their ashes in a box or urn. Eventually, they may carry the ashes to a meaningful spot and throw them to the wind. It is a way of letting them go -- permanently.
That is what God wants you to do if you have been hurt in the past and are hanging on to the ashes. If you want real joy, let go of those ashes, allowing the wind of the Holy Spirit to blow them out of your life . . . permanently.
Isaiah 61:1, 3 -- "The Lord has anointed me to grant consolation and joy to those who mourn . . . to give them an ornament of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 10, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a tiny crab hiding in his shell for protection against the birds that were looking for food. He was safe in his tiny shelter, away from the enemy's attack.
When the devil comes against you, you must have on the complete armor of God if you are to resist the devil and do all God wants you to do.
You must realize that what you do to overcome one crisis may not be the best way to handle the next crisis. The solution to your problem is not in a certain method or procedure, but in the power God gives you to accomplish what He directs you to do.
When you deal with a crisis, the key is not in your method but in unleashing the power of God through faith. So wear God's armor, stand your ground against the devil, lift up the shield of faith, and see how God will bring the victory.
Ephesians 6:13 -- "Therefore put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day of danger, and having done all, to stand firmly in your place."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 9, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a child become very upset when the waves came crashing in on his sandcastle that he had worked on for hours. Isn't that how we all feel at times -- when the waves of life come crashing in on us?
If life sometimes seems to be a battle that causes you to feel upset and fearful, you'll be glad to know you were not meant to fight the battle alone. The Bible says, the battle is God's.
God never loses a battle. And when you work with Him according to His plan, you won't either.
During trying times, do you worry or worship? I know it seems difficult, but He says we should worship Him always. And our praise and worship should not be limited to a few minutes in church. If you are not worshipping at home on a regular basis, you may feel like the victim in life instead of the victor.
God's Word clearly details the Holy Ghost-anointed battle plan to combat every challenge you face. When you begin to substitute praise for petition and worship for worry, God will move on your behalf. Try Him and see if He doesn't do exactly as He says every time . . . praise will move the mountain of worry and you will win, every time.
2 Chronicles 20:15 -- "Be not afraid or dismayed . . . for the battle is not yours, but God's."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 8, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed a small child, crying and disturbed. I stopped for a moment, sat down beside the child and comforted her . . . waiting for her mother to notice us, to come to take her back with her family.
I thought of how God comforts us -- with the stories in the Bible -- our gift to help us in times of difficulty. The people in Scripture had challenges and doubts just like we do. And God never failed them. Likewise, you know He will always come through for you.
Whatever instructions, promises, and comforts God gave to Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul, He gives to you. Claim them as your own treasures and rejoice in them.
God will make your story into an encouragement as well -- helping others to know that they are not alone. As you walk your seashore of life today, know that others will be heartened by how God has strengthened you through the Word He has given to each of us.
Romans 15:4 -- "Whatever was written before was written for our instruction, so that through our endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we may have hope."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 7, 2009
As I walk the seaside with Jesus today, a seagull dove into the water and came up with the needed provision -- a fish for food.
I thought of how God has planned for provision for each of us in our lives daily. His plans are exceedingly strategic and effective. He not only readies good things -- just as He put the fish where the seagull could reach it, to fill your life with joy, but He also prepares you with the ability to truly appreciate them.
There is never regret when God blesses you. There is no looking back and thinking, "if only I had more knowledge, maturity, or skill." Rather, your exclamation will be about how amazing that God coordinated all factors to culminate in a joyful way.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, be patient. God is strategically ordering good things to bring you great happiness. You will be thrilled when you finally possess the merciful and gracious blessings He has planned for you.
John 1:16 -- "Out of the fullness of His grace He has blessed us all, giving us one blessing after another."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 6, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I could feel the love of God come over me as the waves come over the beach.
I heard Him say to me, "Remember who you are -- you are God's cherished loved one". You are fully accepted and completely cared for. Keep in mind the privilege bestowed on you. You are given an instant audience whenever you call upon the throne of heaven.
It is important that you keep these great gifts in mind so that you do not lose heart or feel alone. Your mighty God is close to you and is always securing your way and constantly available to you.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, allow that truth to fill you with joy. Ask God to reveal His presence to you and to help you understand how awesome He really is. And never, ever forget that He is there.
Deuteronomy 4:7 -- "What great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him?"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 5, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a sand castle that had been destroyed by the tide that had come in and washed it away. I thought of my own messes that had been made in my life with wrong decisions and wrong turns.
When English naturalist John Ray wrote "Misery loves company" he tapped on an inherent human characteristic. People relate to those who have similar failings.
If you have ever doubted, you are certainly not alone. After walking with Jesus for three years, Peter denied Jesus in a way that broke his heart. Peter doubted and abandoned Jesus when Jesus needed him most.
Yet Jesus powerfully forgave Peter's denial -- Peter's biggest mess-up. And Peter went on to be one of Jesus' most wholehearted and effective proponents.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, if you relate to Peter's failings, take heart in his failings. God forgives your mistakes as well. Take heart and believe.
Matthew 26:75 -- "Peter remembered what Jesus had said, "Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times." He went out and cried and cried and cried."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 4, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I became distracted in my walk as I watched a flyaway kite floating in the air. I walked into the wave that overtook me by surprise, because I was not watching where I was going.
There will be times when circumstances temporarily draw you away from the one thing that you are most committed to -- the person, project, or issue that has most required your attention.
It will be hard to let your responsibility go, even for a short time. Yet you are confident becaue God cares about what you care about. You need to acknowledge that He is ultimately the One in control of your situation.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know that everything is going to be okay. You leave your precious concern in the very best hands -- His hands. So let go and have confidence that the almighty God tenderly guards that which you love.
Jeremiah 9:24 -- "Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 3, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw a beautiful shell that was small, but would one day become a bigger, more beautiful shell. God makes a way for all of us to become great!
I thought about how we all dream of greatness. What about your dreams of greatness? What is it that drives your passion to excel? Is it a title, financial endeavor, or physical goal?
Seeking such things can be consuming and exhausting -- and ultimately unsatisfying. Many people have reached their goal of greatness only to find it was not all they expected. They also discovered that their fears increased. They worried that someone would surpass them, stealing the identity they had worked so hard to attain.
As you walk your seashore of life today, know Jesus said that the person who teaches His principles and serves others achieves a fulfillment that has eternal significance. Work for the greatness that will never diminish.
Matthew 5:19 -- "Whoever practices and teaches these commandments will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 2, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I thought of the trials and challenges we all are faced with daily . . . and yet we can see our God being faithful every day. It is so emphasized in tides of the ocean -- in and out -- every single day, just as our faithful God has commanded. We know our God is there working on our behalf as we watch His creation.
Job knew God even in the times of great challenges. After a lifetime of seeking and serving Him, he understood God's great wisdom, power and love. And so, when trouble flooded Job's life, he was not fazed. Though he experienced pain and sorrow, he still trusted.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, with your own challenges and problems, hopefully you are comforted by your relationship with God. Hopefully you have experienced His loving character and profound wisdom in your life. Once you have experienced His amazing grace, you too realize that no matter what happens He is there to see you through.
Cling to Him in faith and trust. Like the gentle shepherd, He will guide you through your troubles, and your confidence in Him will be strengthened -- just like Job. You too, will "know" Him -- no matter what challenges life may bring.
Job 13:15 -- "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
July 1, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed a little sandpiper with a wounded wing that dragged along on the sand as he followed the shoreline. I prayed for him and thought of how tender God is with our wounds.
You know how it is when you break a toe or bruise a muscle. You favor, protect it from further injury, making sure no one touches you in that tender spot. The same is true emotionally. You are very guarded where those areas of hurt are concerned, careful not to let anyone near those places.
However, it is important to understand God's character when dealing with the fragile, vulnerable issues of your life. How easy it would be to finish breaking a reed that is bent in two? Or to put out a wick that is only smoldering? Most would not think twice about it.
Remember as you walk along your seashore of life today, God is gentle and kind -- He would never hit you where it hurts. Rather, He will tenderly nurse your fragile issues so you can be healed and made whole again. What an awesome God we serve!
Isaiah 42:3 -- "A brusied reed He will not break and a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron