August 2009 Seaside Devotions Archive
August 31, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed the air being cooler than normal. The hint of a new season is right around the corner as we close out the month of August.
What about you, my friend? Are you ready for a new season in your life? Aren't you ready to put old things behind and press into the new things God has prepared for you in this new season?
God is waiting for you to quit looking behind you and focus on the future He has already prepared for you! He does not look back. God is always moving forward toward the destiny He has prepared for you.
If you are not focused on the day you are living in, you are missing the blessings of the moment! It is a new season -- a new day, so get your heart ready for the blessings God is ready to pour out on His children. Those that are expecting and waiting for the blessings in this new season will receive -- so don't miss your window of opportunity! Watch and listen and move into your destiny today! This is your season! Be ready and receive!!!!
Philippians 3:13 -- "Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. Pressing toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 30, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a little crab hide away in his little hole . . . escaping the dangers from the outside world.
I thought of Jairus . . . he had nowhere else to go. His little girl was dying, and the others in his household had given up hope that she would recover. So Jairus went to Jesus.
You may be in the same kind of delimna -- a situation so difficult that everyone else gives up. It may look hopeless; however, God says the same to you as Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid. Just believe."
Jesus healed Jairus' daughter. As you walk your seashore of life today, remember that God can do wondrous things in your situation too. You don't ever have to lose hope as long as you believe in Him. You just have to trust Him.
Mark 5:36 -- "Do not be afraid; only believe."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 29, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, one of the fisherman on the beach had caught a baby shark. He was working furiously to take the hook out of the mouth of the shark -- trying to free him, but the baby shark was wrestling with him -- causing more pain as the fisherman was trying to set him free. Finally the hook was out and the baby shark swam swiftly back to the freedom of the sea.
I thought of so many times when God is wrestling with us to free us from our pain and trouble and how we fight Him in the release. Does this sound familiar to you? It certainly has been true in my own life -- when I would find myself in trouble and try to get myself out with my own devices! I could hear God saying "this is the way out . . . ," but I would continue to fight His ways, going my own rebellious way trying to find other solutions. It would have been so much easier and quicker if I had only let the Master free me from the pain I had created.
Do you believe He is there for you -- waiting to rescue you from the troubles of the world? He says in His word if we will only call on Him, He will rescue us out of all our troubles. He does not lie. Today as you walk your seashore of life, let Him rescue you out of all your troubles and walk peacefully, through the storm of life. He is waiting for you!
Psalm 20: 1 -- "May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob defend you."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 28, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I was calm in my spirit -- watching the waves gently lap against the cool sand. And the beautiful sunrise took it's time rising as the day began.
My thoughts went back to a time when so many needs were pulling at me -- in so many ways . . . trying to be all things to all people. I finally realized you cannot be all things to all people. In fact, if you have been pulled in a hundred different directions today, and have paused for a moment of sanity -- this message is for you.
Our source of strength must be God. He and only He, takes care of the things you cannot take care of.
Do not let yourself be trapped by thinking that you are the only one who can save the day -- that is God's job. Instead -- you must stop and refocus.
Today, free yourself from those things that demand your attention and decide what your real priorities are, what is truly important. Take a walk on the beach in your mind . . . relax and breathe! God will give you the strength and wisdom to handle those things, and He will take care of the rest. Trust him and live life in His strength!
2 Corinthians 3:5 -- "Our power and ability and sufficiency are from God."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 27, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw the sandcastle built with a wall around it that fortified it against the waves coming in to wash it away! It was built as a fortress on the sand!
In ancient times, a city's strength was found in the walls that surrounded it -- its defense against marauders and attacking armies.
Today, depending on where you live, you probably have features that keep your home safe, such as your home safe, locks on your doors or a security system. Though those devices limit your movement, they protect you from harm.
So it is when you practice self-control. Whether you guard your health by eating well and keeping fit, or protect your finances by spending and investing wisely, discipline is your effective defense to a life well lived.
As you walk your seashore of life, you are strengthened by self-control. Exercise discipline in every area of your life.
Proverbs 25:28 -- "A person without self-control is as defenseless as a city with broken-down walls."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 26, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the clouds were gathering and it looked very dark on the horizon with the waves crashing hard on the sand. I knew a storm was on the way.
I thought of Job in his trials. If you have read the book of Job, you realize that although his suffering began in chapter 1, he was not delivered and healed until chapter 41. But from the very beginning in the darkest moments, Job never lost hope. He was says, "God, I don't care what the situation looks like, You are a good God. Your favor is going to turn this situation around."
As you walk your seashore of life today, remember to look at who is in control of your life! And He has a good plan for you and me according to Jeremiah 29:11. You may be in circumstances today that look impossible, but never rule out the favor and goodness of God. Stay in an attitude of faith. God promises that good things will come to you.
Habakkuk 3:17-18 -- "Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls -- yet will I rejoice in the Lord; I will joy in the God of my salvation."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 25, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I thought of the favor of God that brings us blessings every day, even in a world that seems to be reeling on its way of rebellion against God. That favor is available to each of us who serve the living God.
How about you -- do you think about the favor of God? The favor of God can bring you out of your difficulties and turn your adversities around for good. The Bible is replete with examples of people who were in great need, but then the favor of God came on them in a new way, providing whatever they needed. The whole earth was about to be destroyed by a flood, and God gave Noah the job of building a huge boat, not to mention the gathering of the animals. No doubt, Noah was tempted to get discouraged, yet amazingly, the Bible describes how Noah found favor with God. God was pleased with Noah, and the favor of God came on him in a new and fresh way -- giving him unusual ability and provision needed to get the job done.
As you walk your seashore of life today, remember that the favor of God surrounds you as with a shield and it is available every day you live!
Genesis 6: 8 -- "Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 24, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the waves rage against the sand -- reaching record heights today. The pounding seemed to be heavier than usual today, with the storm that is moving into the area.
It made me think of how life sometimes beats against our dreams -- our hopes -- with issues of life pounding against us. Perhaps we started with big dreams in our hearts -- we're going to excel in our careers, excel as parents, excel in our walks with God. We get started, but then things get difficult, and achieving our goals doesn't happen as quickly as we had hoped. Discouragement sets in, and we start to give up.
Look yourself in the mirror and say, "I am not going to settle for mediocrity. Nothing may be going my way right now, but I'm going to trust God to help me expand my horizons and keep believing for all that He has for me. I'm going to make it." Focus on your goal, set your course, and have the attitude that I'm going to reach my full potential in God.
Psalm 31:24 -- "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 23, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I sang a song of praise to the Lord for the beauty of the ocean . . . the waves, the blue sky, the creatures enjoying the beach . . . including myself!
What are you doing today? Are you praising the Lord? Or are you magnifying your challenges in life today. I thought of David who was always encouraging himself in the Lord through praise. David said in Psalm 34, "I will magnify the Lord". What does that mean? What does it mean to magnify the Lord.
Magnify means "to enlarge or make bigger in perspective." When we magnify something with a magnifying glass, we don't change its reality. We don't make the object we are observing any bigger but we change our perception of it. We cannot make God any bigger than He already is -- you can't increase omnipotence, but you can magnify or diminish your perspective of God. Perspective has everything to do with whether you are encouraged or discouraged!
Today as you walk your seashore of life, refuse to magnify the problems, and magnify God. Make God bigger than your trouble. Magnify the Lord! Speak of His greatness, His power, His might. Talk about how big and powerful God is! You will be encouraged just as David was!
Psalm 34:1 -- "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make it’s boast in the Lord; the humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 22, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt joyful as the water splashed on my feet. It makes me feel like Jesus' little girl that He has given the whole world to play in. Joy overflowed as I continued my walk down the beach.
Let me ask you a question. When you wake up in the morning, do you feel joyful? Do you think of all the things that are "wrong in your life" or do you look at the amazing abundance God has blessed each of us with -- health, light, sunrises, sunsets, friends, homes to live in, clothes to wear, rain to water our yards and flowers . . . so many things we can overlook as we go through our life! We make the choice every day -- to see the blessings or the curses. Look around and see God's blessings everywhere we go! He has provided wonderful things for His children to enjoy every day!
Remember today as you walk your seashore of life, that the joy of the Lord is your strength. It will make a difference daily in your life if you walk in joy!! Don't miss out on the joy that is available to you today!
Nehemiah 8:10 -- "The joy of the Lord is my strength!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 21, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the baby sandpipers following the mother -- staying very close to her as they ran down the sand. I thought of how we are to stay close to our Heavenly Father as well, following in His footsteps.
There is a life that is so superior to anything the world has to offer that no comparison can be made. But in order to have that kind of life, we must be willing to be yoked to Christ and learn His ways. This means we must stay close to Him and learn how He handles every situation that arises.
His ways and thoughts are far superior to ours, and we must be willing to surrender our ways to Him and discover what His will is for our life.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, let's determine that we will give up being independent and learn to lean and depend on God. Let's give Him full reign of our lives . . . in return we will find rest, relief, ease, refreshment, recreation and blessed quiet!
Matthew 11:29 -- "Take My yoke and learn of Me, for I am gentle, and humbe in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 20, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a huge peligan flew close to the shore line . . . sweeping the waves for food. I always loved to watch birds fly -- since I have a love for flying myself, and felt if I could be another creature on the earth, I would be an eagle.
God's Word makes several references to eagles, the most powerful winged creature on earth, and I believe we can learn valuable lessons from them.
Eagles do not fear or run from a storm -- they allow the powerful wind currents to lift them above it. Nor do they waste time battling with other birds. When attacked, they simply mount up higher, soaring effortlessly above their enemies.
When you grow weary of the struggles and battles of the "lower life" it is time to learn to fly.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, allow God to teach you how to fly above your problems. Be determined to know Him and the power of His resurrection. You will discover that when you are soaring close to the heart of God, you can face whatever comes without growing tired and weary!
Isaiah 40:31 -- "Those who wait for the Lord shall mount up as eagles . . . they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 19, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a wounded sandpiper lay along the side of the beach, moving slowly out of the way. He seemed lost and frightened, and I just prayed for the small creature as my heart was filled with compassion.
It made me think of how we are when we are wounded or consumed with pain, or set aside for a time. We think we are of no use for the Kingdom and are accomplishing nothing. We tend to feel we are doing the "greatest good" in the world only when we are strong and fit for active duty and when are hearts and hands are busy with kind acts of service.
Yet, if we will be patient and submissive, it is almost certain we will be an even greater blessing to the world around us during our time of suffering and pain . . . more than we ever thought we could when we were doing our greatest work. That is when we are truly depending on Him to do whatever needs to be done, in our weakest times. It is then we know we are moving by His grace and His power -- not ours. Our lights are truly shining in the darkness in our darkest hours . . . be encouraged and trust Him in your moments of pain. Then you are being His greatest witness.
Philippians 3:8 -- "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 18, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the dolphins were playing in the waves close to the shore. They never seem to get in a hurry -- they just seem to glide along in the water, enjoying the water and playing and having fun.
I thought of how we seem to always be so hurried and impatient in our lives. Why can't we learn to glide along and trust our Heavenly Father like they do?
Patience is powerful because it frees you from the control of the devil and the circumstance he brings to upset us. However, patience -- which is a fruit of the Spirit -- only grows through trials. It is during these times that you can develop the ability to remain strong and stable.
Patience is required if you are to see the fulfillment of God's promises in your life. So it is important to develop control over your thoughts and what you say when you are faced with challenging circumstances. It isn't easy, but with God's help you can do it.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, actively pursue the patience of Christ and it will lead you into His power. Then you will be able to accomplish God's will and receive His promises.
Hebrews 10:16 -- "For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away and enjoy to the full what is promised."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 17, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I thought of how much time Jesus spent on the water, telling the people about the Kingdom of God. And here I am -- on the ocean shore -- telling people about the Kingdom of God. How exciting to be in His Kingdom!
As a child of God it is your privilege to live in God's Kingdom as well. But what and where is His Kingdom? Luke 17:21 says the Kingdom of God is within you. And the scripture for this sheds light on what it is and what it is not.
The Kingdom of God is not food and drink -- things of this world -- but it is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Many people have the wealth of the world, but they do not have true satisfaction.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, remember that satisfaction in your inner man is what Jesus wants to give you. When things are right on the inside, the outward things don't matter as much. So keep your eyes on the true Kingdom of God and the rest will be added in abundance. That is your promise from Him.
Romans 14:17 -- "The Kingdom of God is not a matter of getting food and drink, but instead it is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 16, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my heart was filled with joy -- joy for the very moment on the beach with my Heavenly Father. I didn't think of the future and what I was going to do, but I was living in that very moment with Jesus -- and truly enjoying it.
Life is a journey -- a process of advancement and progression. We all make our plans and get ahead of God as we go through life. As you move toward the future, you must be careful not to lose sight of the now and the enjoyment it can bring you right this very moment!
Lots of times in our life as a Christian, we know we are saved, but we are not enjoying our life! God reminds me often that our enjoyment is not based necessarily on enjoyable circumstance. It is an attitude of the heart, regardless of what our circumstance may be.
As a believer you have available to you the abundant quality of life that comes from God. As you walk your seashore of life today, don't get so caught up in your busyness that you fail to enjoy the pleasures God provides every day. He has given you abundant life and your goal should be to enjoy it to the fullest every day of your life.
John 10:10 -- "I come that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 15, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the vastness of the ocean seemed to be endless. Its boundaries reach to the outer ends of the earth.
We seem to limit our God with our thinking when we think of our lives on the earth. As a Christian, you believe Jesus died for your sins and that when you die you will go to heaven because you believe in Him. But there is more to our redemption than that. There is a life of victory God wants for you now . . . the boundaries are endless.
It is impossible to live victoriously in this earth without understanding your rightful authority and dominion over the devil and all his works. Your position "in Christ" is one of being seated at the right hand of the Lord God Omnipotent.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, God wants to restore you to the place of authority that is yours. He has already made all the arrangements; you might say He has "sealed the deal." The purchase price has been paid in full. You have been bought by the precious blood of Jesus. Therefore, I encourage you to go forth with confidence and enjoy the life Jesus has provided for you.
Galations 4:7 -- "Therefore, you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir by the aid of God, through Christ."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 14, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, again I am overcome with the goodness of our creator to give us such visual blessings -- the ocean filled with it's wonder and beauty! You can never be depressed when you are enjoying the beauty God has given us to see daily!!
David wrote often about the wonderful works of God. When he was feeling depressed he wrote in Psalm 143:4-5, "Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed and faints within me (wrapped in gloom); my heart within my bosom grows numb. I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your doings; I ponder the work of Your hands." David's response to his feelings of depression and gloom was to choose to remember the good times of past days -- pondering the doings of God and the works of His hands. In other words, he thought on something good, and it helped him overcome depression.
As you walk your seashore of life today, when the enemy comes against you with depression or discouragement, choose to remember the times God has blessed and delivered you in the past. Hope will rise in your heart and your troubles will seem small.
Psalm 48:9 -- "We have thought of Your steadfast love, O God, in the midst of Your temple."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 13, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a little crab trying to hide from one of the sandpipers. He was scurrying about, looking for a place to hide. I am sure he was worried about his future -- which could end very quickly if captured by the sandpiper.
I thought of how we worry and think the enemy is going to capture us, as we carry our burdens around with us in our daily lives. The scripture in 1 Peter 5:6-7 says for us to cast our care on Him. This word means for us to humble ourselves before Him and not worry about our lives.
Worry is the mind racing around trying to find a solution to its situation. A person who worries still thinks that in some way he can solves his own problems. But only God can deliver you and in every situation your first response should be to lean on Him.
Today as you walk your seashore of life remember this . . . when the enemy tries to give you a problem, you have the privilege of casting it on God. The word cast actually means to pitch or throw. You and I can pitch our problems to God and He will catch them. He knows exactly what to do with them.
1 Peter 5:6-7 -- "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you, casting the whole of your care on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 12, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the final days of vacation are coming to an end and I wish many of the vacationers goodbye till the next season. It is a time to get back to real life and taking life on again -- with it's issues and challenges.
Let me encourage you today that these days on earth are meant to be enjoyed and lived to the fullest -- trusting our Father with every detail. We often don't do that -- we take on all the care's and carry them with us daily, forgetting we have a promise that He has our life's needs taken care of.
It is true that many serious things are going on in the world and you need to be aware of them and prepare for them. But you also need to learn to relax and take things as they come without getting all nervous and upset.
You need to learn how to enjoy the good life God has provided for you through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ (John 10:10). As you walk your seashore of life, when you become tempted to be anxious, upset or weighted down with life, find something happy to think about. Have a talk with yourself about all the good things God has done in your life . . . I am sure your heart will be lifted!
Proverbs 12:25 -- "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, but an encouraging word makes it glad."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 11, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, He reminded me of the dreams and visions that have been planted deep in my heart. The ocean seashore is a wonderful place to ponder on these things -- as you see the vision our Father had when He spoke creation into being.
I wonder today if you have dreams and desires in your heart that have not come to pass? More than anything else in the world, Hannah wanted a baby. She often wept while she prayed because her desire for a child was so ingrained and impassioned. What is it that brings tears to your eyes when you think about it for too long?
Let peace permeate your soul -- God has received your prayers. If He has promised to fulfill your deepest longing, you can count on the fact that He says He will . . . He will do it! He gave Hannah her child, and He will grant your request as well.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, take heart that God receives your prayers. Wipe away your tears and receive His peace. Rejoice in the Lord today!
1 Samuel 1:17 -- "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel give you what you have asked of Him."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 10, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt such a peace enjoying the beautiful waves lapping gently against the sand. What a joy to feel peace inside and on the outside as well.
My thoughts were taken back to days I had not been able to find this peace -- to enjoy such a moment as this morning's walk. Events of life seem to steal that peace -- daily, if we allow it.
Were there events in your life today that shook your faith? Were there incidents that made it seem like God was not working on your behalf? These will absolutely arise, because that is how our Father builds our faith!
God allows that which is seen as temporary to seemingly contradict what you know to be His purposes for your life. Why? Because your faith is built by what is unseen. All evidence may point to defeat, but with God -- whose person and work are invisible -- is victory.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, when circumstances shake your faith, never forget God's unseen workings. Focus on God; believe in Him. What you see is temporary, and your triumph is eternal. We always triumph in Christ Jesus!
2 Corinthians 4:18 -- "We do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen; for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 9, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I thought of how people escape to the beach to get away from the activites of life -- work, responsibilities, yard work, meetings, and all the other things that seem to consume our lives in today's world.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if we escaped to the beach just to focus on Jesus? According to James 4:4, when you pay more attention to the things of the world than you do to God, He looks upon you as an unfaithful wife who is having an affair with the world and breaking her marriage vow to Him. To keep you faithful to Him and in close fellowship and communion with Him, sometimes He must remove things from your life that are keeping you from Him.
The Holy Spirit wants to be made welcome; He yearns for fellowship with us. Don't allow jobs, friends, family, money, success or even our vacations to take His rightful place in your life. Today as you walk your seashore of life, open up your entire life and say with all your heart, "Welcome, Holy Spirit; I am glad you have made your home in me!"
James 4:5 -- "Or do you suppose that the Scripture is speaking to no purpose that says, 'The Spirit Whom He has caused to dwell in us yearns over us and He yearns for the Spirit to be welcome with a jealous love?'"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 8, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I saw two little sandpipers sitting on the ground asleep . . . this is not the normal for them. They are usually running quickly along the beach, but today these two were sleeping.
I thought about us, in our Christian walks. Are we sleeping when we need to be wide awake and praying. Jesus wanted the disciples to pray with Him, but they kept falling asleep. He was trying to prepare them for the trial that was coming. He was saying, "Don't sleep, pray! You're going to be tempted beyond what you can bear if you don't pray." As Jesus prayed, an angel came and strengthened Him in spirit enabling Him to endure the cross. But the disciples didn't pray -- the slept -- and proved that the flesh is truly weak.
Our spirits are willing to do what is right, but our flesh will not help us. Our flesh will rule us if we don't pray and ask God to strengthen us in spirit and help us resist temptations we may encounter each day.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, remember -- your flesh may be tired, but take time to spend in prayer and be prepared for whatever comes your way tomorrow. Be built up in the spirit! God has gone before us, and we must do our part!
Matthew 26:41 -- "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 7, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I had the opportunity to share my faith and love for our creator with a person that needed some encouragement for the day. What a blessing -- to share the love of Christ.
I thought of how we don't always take the opportunity to share boldly of our Father's love for us. The phrase, "before the sons of men" means that if you will not be a closet Christian, but live for Jesus openly before others, God will store up His goodness for you.
Many Christians aren't comfortable talking about their faith. We all have moments where we don't take a stand for God like we should. Maybe we are afraid of being rejected, isolated, or ridiculed. It can feel awkward to say, "I really don't want to hear a dirty joke." "I'm a Christian and I'm not interested in going to an inappropriate movie." Bottom line, we aren't brave soldiers and declare the one we serve.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, make a decision not to be a lukewarm, wishy-washy Christian. When you and I take an uncompromising stand for Christ, God will reward us openly. What a way to live . . . live for Him today!
Psalm 31:19 -- "Oh how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear, revere, and worship You, goodness which You have wrought for those who trust and take refuge in You before the sons of men!"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 6, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the children furiously building a sandcastle . . . working to beat the waves which continually tore the building down.
It made me think of the way I so often want to build things on my own, getting ahead of God many times. Trying to make things happen on your own without God's help is foolish and often causes feelings of frustration and condemnation. It makes no sense for us to try to do what only God can do. When will we ever learn this?
God wants us to realize it is impossible for us to change ourselves -- only He can do that through the marvelous wonder of His grace, which is a free gift to everyone who will receive it.
If you have been struggling to achieve good results on your own, it's time to make a change. God wants us to struggle less and believe more. Today as you walk your seashore of life, accept the free gift of God's grace and allow Him to change your life into the peaceful, abundant life He has planned for you.
Galations 3:3 -- "Are you so foolish and so senseless and so silly? Having begun with the Holy Spirit, are you now reaching perfection by dependence on the flesh?"
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 5, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the heat seemed almost unbearable as I struggled to complete my walk. I would not give up, but I was determined to complete the walk.
I thought about how we are when we are waiting on God. We cannot lose heart. Though pressures of the day may have overwhelmed you, though dreams are long in being fulfilled, though you are physically and emotionally exhausted, embrace this hope.
When you receive God's magnificent promise, the troubles and fatigue you feel right now will seem light, momentary -- and easily forgettable. You will see God's glory, and it will be the most extraordinary thing you have ever experienced.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, take courage and rejoice. Trust in God and eagerly expect Him to work in your life. Surely you will have overwhelming joy when you finally see His glory.
2 Corinthians 4:16-17 -- "We do not lose heart . . . for our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 4, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the beach was glorious and my heart was filled with praise to my Lord for the ability to enjoy His creation.
My question is, are we able to praise Him even on our bad days when problems arise and life is not so smooth? I thought of Paul and Silas, who were able to praise the Lord, even in an uncomfortable situation -- being in jail.
It is not shocking that these missionaries were in prison -- their preaching often angered the religious leaders. What was surprising, however, was their response to being beaten and chained. To everyone's amazement, they sang hymns to God.
How do people praise God when they hurt? It is a difficult sacrifice, to be sure. However, it asserts the foundational belief that no matter what the situation, God holds the situation in His hands.
As you walk your seashore of life, know that God freed Paul and Silas from prison, and He can release you from your pain as well. So sing a hymn of praise to Him and experience the way He honors your sacrifice.
Acts 16:25 -- "About midnight, Paul and Silas were at prayer and singing a robust hymn to God. The other prisoners couldn't believe their ears."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 3, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, it was raining and damp . . . not the usual sunny day at the beach. It only made me thankful for the beautiful days as I reflected on the goodness of God.
How often do we remember God's goodness . . . is it only on the good days, when everything seems to be good -- sunny and bright, no problems? Surely He has accomplished great things for each of us. Even now, on a rainy day, He brings to mind the many times He has shown me His love and goodness.
There is an amazing benefit to meditating on all God has done. Dwell on His goodness and it will truly inspire you. Recall his excellent words and your faith will continually be renewed. Express your appreciation for His provision and your trust in His flawless character -- and your heart will soar to the threshold of heaven.
Remember as you walk your seashore of life today, nothing encourages your soul or pleases God like our praise. Let's exalt Him for all the joy He has given us. He is worthy of our praise daily -- on rainy or sunny days.
Isaiah 63:7 -- "I will tell of the Lord's unfailing love. I will praise the Lord for all He has done. I will rejoice in His great goodness."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 2, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I thought of the purpose of the ocean -- to divide the land from the water -- to draw boundaries on the earth as God created it. He has created everything for a purpose.
There is also a purpose for your life. Perhaps you know of some ways you need to straighten your course, but God has excellent plans for you and will guide you if you are willing. He knew what you would need before He even began putting you together.
If there is some challenge ahead that you feel inadequate to face, do not fear. God knows what you can handle and He knows what He must teach you in order for you to succeed.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, thank Him for His deep knowledge and wonderful purpose for you. Enjoy today knowing He has equipped you with everything you need for the future.
Jeremiah 1:5 -- "Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you. Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
August 1, 2009
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, even though I was relaxed and enjoying the moment and beauty of the beach, there was a longing for completing the purpose for which God has created me.
Peter and Andrew spent their days casting nets into the Sea of Galilee. Undoubtedly, it was for feeding their families and others.
Providing for needs is a noble enough purpose -- yet when Jesus called them to become fishers of men, He was asking them to aspire to more.
Certainly there are many excellent pursuits on which to spend one's life. Imagine being the conduit through which God changes a life. Not just feeding a person's stomach, but the person's heart. Not just healing a person's body but the person's soul.
Today as you walk your seashore of life, know that God appeals to your desire to help others by giving you an amazing purpose -- influencing others for the Kingdom of God and giving them an eternal perspective.
Matthew 4:19 -- "Come after Me, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."
Blessings and peace,
Sherron