As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, all of Creation seemed to shouting the goodness of God! The sky was bluer than usual, the waves were glistening, the birds were singing! What a glorious day!
Many people are trapped in a mediocre lifestyle. They seem to lack personal motivation, so they are easy targets for those who promise an easy way to success that requires little effort on their part. They do just enough to get by, but they never go the extra mile.
Living that kind of life is a poor substitute for the real rewards in life that can only be found in being a person of excellence, which was God's plan for you from the beginning.
Learn the truth about God's good plan for your life and vigorously pursue it. You will sense a wonderful fulfillment and the fruit of your life will be abundant and bring glory to God.
Matthew 7:13-14 -- Don't look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don't fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life -- to God! -- is vigorous and requires total attention.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt so free from the cares of the world... listening to the waves and watching the dolphin playing freely in the ocean! What a joyous way to live!!!
Although you live in the world, you are not to be of the world... worldly in your ways. Because it is easy to become worldly without realizing it, you need the godly influence of spiritually mature people in your life. You also need to be a student of God's Word, which can change your ungodly desires and train and establish godly character in you.
As a child of God, you are to be a light to others who dwell in darkness. People should be able to tell by your joy, the light in your eyes, the way you treat people, the way you talk about people -- or don't talk about them -- that you are a Christian.
Determine now that you will be a light in this present world. Ask God to help you glorify Him through your choices and actions.
Titus 2:11-12 -- The grace of God... has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritualy whole) lives in this present world.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I could only express my love for Him in prayers along the shoreline. We were having wonderful conversations -- heart to heart! What a glorious way to start the day.
Prayer to many is just a ritual reserved for church services or special occasions. To others, it is something they do when they have a problem or get sick. But prayer is not some ritual or mechanical function. It is something you should live out all day long, just like breathing.
Prayer demonstrates humility; it's a symbol of your dependence upon God. And the humble get the help.
As you settle down to sleep tonight, pray and let God know how much you love Him. Thank Him, praise Him, and offer any petitions you may have, knowing He hears and answers prayer. Then enjoy a peaceful night of rest.
Ephesians 6:18 -- Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all manner of prayer.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I found a beautiful shell that was broken but I knew it was once a beautiful creation of God. And yet it was beautiful in my sight... because in it I could see my own brokenness in my life!
Facing the truth about yourself is a vital key to experiencing a breakthrough to victory. If you want to continually live in new levels of victory, you must remain open and receptive to the truth about yourself. This is not just a superficial acknowledgment of wrong thinking and behavior -- it is an open and honest recognition of your sin before God that brings an attitude of repentance which is a willingness to go in the right direction.
It can be painful, but facing the truth about your mindsets, motives, and methods of doing things enables you to move beyond your despair and experience a wonderful fellowship with God.
The truth about yourself often brings great hurt, but the truth of God's Word brings great healing. As you continue in His Word, the truth will set you free!
John 16:13 -- But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the phrase live and let live came to my mind. This phrase means "you mind your business, and I'll mind mine -- and vice versa." And the Bible confirms this is a good practice. I have discovered that the application of this principle aids me greatly in enjoying my life.
Many times we get into things that are really none of our business, and sometimes those things make us miserable. I encourage you not to become entangled with the lives of others. Be a good friend, but beware of entanglements. It is possible to lose yourself in someone ele's life, but that is not God's plan for you.
Most of us have enough business of our own, without getting involved in the business of others. So make it your ambition to mind your own business and endeavor to live quietly and peacefully. It's a great way to live!
1 Thessalonians 4:11 -- Make it your ambition and definitely endeavor to live quietly and peacefully, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sound of the waves was soothing to my soul. His peace came flooding into my heart on this glorious day!
As a believer, your joy and peace are not based on doing and achieving, but on believing. Joy and peace come as a result of building your relationship with the Lord.
Psalm 16:11 tells you that in His presence is fullness of joy. If you have received Jesus as your Savior and Lord, He -- the Prince of Peace -- lives inside you (see John 14:23; 1 John 4:12-15) You experience peace in the Lords presence, receiving from Him and acting in response to His direction.
Joy and peace come from knowing, believing, and trusting in the Lord with simple childlike faith. So just believe... and be filled with an overflowing hope that cascades into every area of your life.
Romans 15:13 -- May the God of your hope so fill you with all joy and peace in believing... that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing with hope.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I was surprised to see an eagle flying over the ocean waves with his wings spread wide soaring high in the sky!!!!
God's Word makes several references to eagles, the most powerful winged creature on earth, and I believed you can learn some 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's time to learn to fly.
Allow God to teach you how to fly above your problems. Be determined to know Him and the power of His resurrection. You'll discover that when you're soaring close to the heart of God, you can face whatever comes without growing tired and weary.
Isaiah 40:11 -- Those who wait for the Lord.... shall change and renew their strength.... they shall lift their wings and mount up as eagles... they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the little seagulls seemed to be fighting with one another... stealing their little fish away from one another. It seemed like an ugly thing for the pretty birds to be doing to one another.
I guess it is like humans... all human beings have evil tendencies, but if you are humble enough to ask for and receive God's grace, He will give it to you.
Early in my own Christian life I tried to take care of my own evil tendencies, but I was not successful. God opposed all of my fleshly "Sherron" plans. So I finally learned that the proud try to take care of themselves, but the humble lean on God and get the help needed from Him.
If you have tried to make things happen in your own strength you are probably very frustrated like I once was. But today I encourage you to do what I did -- just trust in the grace and power of the Holy Spirit... and receive everything you need from Him.
James 4:6 -- But He gives us more and more grace. That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace to the lowly.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the pelicans were diving into the water again and again. They had no fear of hitting the water when they would dive straight into the water looking for the fish! It seems as though it might hurt, but nevertheless, they seemed fearless!
Fear -- how does it affect us? Driving down the road one day, pondering an upcoming change in my life, I found that I felt afraid. It really wasn't a major thing, but it felt like it to me.
God spoke to me that day and simply said, "Pray about everything. Fear nothing" He showed me He couldn't work through my fear, but if I would give Him my faith, He would help me in my situation. I needed it that day for something seemingly minor, but I have used it many times since for all types of situations.
Isn't it good to know that God cares about everything that concerns you -- even the little things you are afraid of? Your part is to pray and have faith, and God's part is to provide the power to meet your need. What do you need to pray about tonight?
James 5:16 -- The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayers of a righteous many makes tremendous power available (dynamic in its working).
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my emotions were filled with thoughts of the week before. It had been busier than usual and words had been spoken between friends that seemed to be hurtful, and not building up of one another, as Jesus says we are to do.
When we speak things out of emotions, we often speak the wrong things, things that tear down and not build up.
It is so challenging to say right things when you feel totally wrong. When your emotions are running high or low, you are tempted to speak emotionally rather than sensibly. But you must allow wisdom to rise above emotion.
God spoke about nonexistent things as if they already existed, and He created the world with faithfilled words. You are created in His image, and you can also call things that are not as though they are. You can speak positive things about yourself into the atmosphere and thereby "prophesy your future."
Think about the words you speak and you will learn a lot about yourself. As a Christian, you are God's representative, and your words should reflect His character. Meditating on the goodness of God will fill your heart with joy, and the words you speak will glorify Him and be a testimony to others.
Matthew 12:34 -- For out of the fullness (the overflow, the superabundance) of the heart the mouth speaks.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, it was very early and still the darkness was still covering the ocean... but the stillness was filled with the presence of God!
Have you ever noticed that in the quiet darkness of night there seems to be something special about the presence of God?
He is always with you, even during the daytime, and you can talk to Him anytime, even when you're busy. But during the day there are many distractions that keep you from focusing on His presence for an extended period of time. And by the end of the day you've often experienced problems and frustrations that can cause you to feel lonely and needy. It is then that you can finally give time and attention to the one who is the answer to your needs.
When you yearn for God in the night, seek Him earnestly, and you'll find He will minister to you in a special way. He will provide answers to any problems you may have, and He will give you peace and rest.
Isaiah 26:9 -- My soul yearns for You O Lord, in the night, yes, my spirit within me seeks You earnestly.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a little sandpiper was all alone on the beach. He seemed to be lost and lonely, but I knew he was not alone because I was there with him.
Have you ever experienced the betrayal of a friend? What should you do when such an awful thing happens? The psalmist turned his attention to God. He did not run to others declaring his side of the story, trying to gain support. Instead, he sought shelter in God's presence.
God is the only One who can offer the proper view of your circumstances. He helps you recall the many times you have fallen short in the same way and prepares you to forgive the person who hurt you.
Why? Because anger and resentment are unbearable weights that restrict your ability to experience His love. You can forgive those who hurt you and move on when the focus of your heart is set on the Savior.
Psalm 109:4 -- In return for my love, they acuse me, but I pray for them.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside today, the dolphin were playing along the waves. They were jumping in and out of the water, doing what they were created to do. Their life activity is to occupy the waves and enjoy them every day.
I thought of how we are -- trying to find our purpose in life. People often think that doing a certain activity will make them holy. And Jesus has made it so simple to come close to Him. There is only one way to begin the journey into holiness, and that is through a personal relationship with Jesus.
Even though the Lord spent three years with the disciples, they still had problems that they had to overcome. Peter was impetuous; Thomas was doubtful; and the others worried whether Jesus would do what He had promised.
However, when the Holy Spirit renewed their minds, they began to respond to problems and difficulties the way Jesus did.
The closer you grow to Christ, the more you will be inspired to live a pure life.
Psalm 99:9 -- Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the Lord our God is holy.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the tiny sandpiper walked beside me for a long time. Then he chose to walk the other way, and left me to myself along the sandy beach. He had made the choice to go in a different direction.
We all have choices to make, every day. Perhaps you have wondered: What if I make the wrong choice? What if I make a terrible mistake? You have stayed awake at night pondering the right way to handle some difficult decision, and you are fraught with anxiety.
God knows all that you are facing, and He knows how you should handle the situation. Will He help you with the decision that you need to make? Will He show you how to make the right choice? The answer is yes, when you ask Him to show you what is best and you believe Him.
He may speak to you through the Bible or through a trusted Christian friend, but you must trust and obey Him when He speaks. Be still, listen for His answer to your prayers, and be confident that He will lead you.
Psalm 106:8 -- He saved them for His name's sake, that He might make known His mighty power.... Then they believed His words; they sang His praise.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the one thing I wanted more than anything was simply quiet time. There are noises on the beach, but they are soothing to the soul... the waves lapping against the sand, the tiny sandpipers with quiet little peeps. They are soothing sounds to my heart each morning.
But then every day we hear many noises in the world... people expressing their opinions on the television, radio, and in conversation. Many have strong views and make viable cases for why you should have the same outlook as theirs. God cautions you to be wise and not believe all you hear.
God is straightforward in His approach to right and wrong -- and you can be sure that anything that contradicts His Word is false and destructive. So do not get caught in the trap of thinking He does not really care what you do. He will not ignore your unfaithfulness.
The Lord has only the best in mind for your life, and He is motivated to see you enjoy it. However, it all begins with your obedience to Him Therefore, do as He says, because He really is worth following.
Psalm 72:1 -- Give the gift of wise rule to the King, O God.... May He judge your people rightly, be honorable to your meek and lowly.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, two children were playing on the beach with their father. He was saying words, and they would repeat after him. He was having fun teaching them to speak as he spoke.
I thought of how children mimmick what parents say... and often we parents laugh about the way our children pick up phrases they hear around the house -- which are often repeated at inopportune times. Yet children are innocent and just want to be like their mom or dad.
You, on the other hand, are not a child any longer, but still pick up habits -- good and bad -- from friends, co-workers, and others. However, God has commanded that you set His Word as your standard for living, obeying anything He commands you to do.
Friend, just as the Lord expects you to set a godly pattern for your loved ones, He also wants you to follow His holy example. Therefore, look to Him and imitate His honorable character.
Psalm 71:7 -- I am an example to many people, because you are my strong protection.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a tiny crab run for cover in his tiny hole in the sand. He had arrived at a safe place and could continue his life along the shoreline.
Is safety important to you? Would you like to feel secure in your home, finances, relationships, and occupation? Are you ever afraid of the future -- of being unprepared for the challenges ahead?
Fears about the unknown can steal you peace. Yet understand that although your perspective is limited, God's is not. That is why your best safeguard is always to trust Him.
God sees the troubles on the path before you, and He can lead you through them unharmed. He also examines the dangers within you and frees you from them.
Therefore, be confident in God's unfailing perspective and discover real security in your relationship with Him.
Psalm 11:4 -- The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord is on His heavenly throne. He observes the sons of men; His eyes examine them.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sea gulls were chattering loudly along the beach. They were especially loud today and I so wanted to hear the quietness of the ocean. They were too busy making sure they were heard today.
It made me think that there are times when we will want to be chattering about our lives or making sure our side of every story is told. There will be times when you cannot speak or defend yourself. Perhaps you are even given a chance to tell your side of the story, but it is as if the Holy Spirit has sealed your lips. He often does this so you will be still and allow Him to speak for you.
Friend, if another person is bent on accusing you for something you did not do, give God the opportunity to reveal the truth. You bear His name, and when you act in obedience to Him, you can be sure He will defend you in a manner better than any you could possibly imagine.
The Lord works in amazing ways and can change the course of any human plan. Be patient and trust Him, because His vindication is coming.
Psalm 83:18 -- May they know that You alone – whose name is Yahweh – are the Most High over all the earth.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the waves were calm and peaceful. Even though it had been a stressful week, at this moment the whole world seemed to be at peace as my soul felt His love covering me from the top of my head to the soles of my feet.
A deep sense of peace is yours when you turn your thoughts to God. There is always hope when you choose to listen to Him instead of to the negative messages of the world.
God's Word reminds you that when you draw near to Him, you will find the comfort you need. He provides the wisdom and insight to meet every challenge.
King David knew that with God's aid he could advance against a mighty army and subdue his enemies. Because of his faith, the Lord gave him many triumphs.
Not every day brings an emergency or a call for action, but many do bring a need to remember how greatly God loves you. So seek Him, and receive His peace.
Psalm 85:8 -- I am listening to what the Lord God is saying; He promises peace to us, His own people, if we do not go back to our foolish ways.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the pelicans were fighting over a fish as though there was only one in God's massive ocean. But in reality, there were millions of fish to have -- and they had focused on what belonged to another pelican.
We are like that at times. We get focused on what someone else has, when in reality, God has made promises to each one of us and He is faithful to fulfill what He says. I am sure we have all had those times when we wonder if God has just forgotten His promises to us, but He never does. Months or years may pass, but regardless of the length of time, always remember the plans He has for you.
God does not operate according to anyone's schedule. Joseph spent years in Egyptian exile before he realized what the Lord wanted to do in His life. The time he spent in prison was not wasted. God was preparing him for an even greater purpose and only time would reveal what this was. His responsibility was to wait obediently for the Lord to work. This same principle applies to you. The next time you are tempted to become anxious or impatient, remember God always blesses those who are committed to waiting for and trusting Him.
Psalm 98:3 -- He has remembered His steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the wind made it difficult to walk but I was determined to finish the walk. There was no way I could be defeated at this task for the day.
Responsibilities and struggles can drain energy and emotions. Trials threaten to steal your hope and joy. You survey the circumstances of your life and wonder how any good can come from what you are experiencing. But it can. When God is involved, there is always the potential for hope and blessing.
Problems are a natural part of life. Without much warning, stress can build, and before you know it, you are crying out for help. However, instead of cowering in fear, the psalmist used his trying situation as an opportunity to express his deep commitment to God.
Praise God for satisfying your soul, and express your trust that He will work things out for your good.
Psalm 63:1 -- O God, you are my God, and I long for you. My whole being desires you; like a dry, worn-out, and waterless land, my soul is thirsty for you.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the ocean seemed calm and quiet. It was one of the more peaceful days of the week, and I relished the moment!
There will be times when your day seems far too normal. Life feels a little flat and even dull. You start your daily routine and find yourself wondering why your attitude toward it has changed. Was there a time when it felt special, when the routine was easy and the pace of your life enjoyable?
Everyone feels this way at some point -- it is as if life has lost its luster. However, there is a solution: Recall the awesome, creative power of God. The psalmist realized that when he praised God for His wondrous works, his heart lifted to new heights.
You can do the same. Discover fresh hope for your day and expectancy for the future by remembering all the awesome things God has done.
Psalm 14:24 -- What a wildly wonderful world, God! You made it all, with Wisdom at your side, make earth overflow with your wonderful creations.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a tiny sea gull was making horrific noises as he walked beside of me. He seemed to be following another sea gull and being very disruptive making squawking noises at the fellow bird.
The creature's actions reminded me of our own actions toward our fellow beings. Sometimes the negative words of others can be devastating. Because of them, you struggle with thoughts of doubt, fear, or condemnation. However, the psalmist learned how to put the words of others in the proper perspective, and you can too.
When you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior, you gain a fresh sense of unshakable hope and peace. The connection you have with Him empowers you to stand firm against the most deceptive thought or attack. You discover how to say as the psalmist did, "I will not fear!" because you know that your Lord defends you.
Open your heart and mind to God's personal love and care for you. You will not be disappointed.
Psalm 56:4 -- By the help of God I will praise His word; on God I lean, rely and confidently put my trust; I will not fear. What can man, who is flesh, do to me?
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sea gulls were gathered along the shoreline. They were singing, as though their hearts were just happy to be on the beach! And I joined their praises as I walked the beach!
We were created to praise Him. Allow the words to roll from your lips, "Lord, I praise your wonderful power." Say the phrase aloud, "My God, I trust your faultless strength."
Is this exercise of adoration difficult for you today? Is there an issue weighing on your heart that prevents you from adoring the Lord? If so, it is even more essential for you to turn your thoughts away from your suffering and to His sufficiency, to replace the pain of your trials with the reality of His triumph.
Worship the Lord who can and will help you. Rejoice and be glad that He is with you and will never fail. It is when you refocus your attention on Him that you will see victory as a possibility. That, friend, is the true power of praise.
Psalm 21:13 -- Be exalted, Lord, in Your strength; we will sing and praise Your power.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a pelican was fighting to hold onto the fish he had caught. He struggled but lost the fight. He finally gave up.
A soul can only tolerate stress and self-denial for so long. When challenges or hardships consume you for a prolonged period of time, you must somehow quench the longings within that you've been neglecting.
At times that may mean acting out in a way that is negative -- through binge eating, overspending, destructive relationships, substance abuse, or compulsive behaviors. Unfortunately, your reckless actions do nothing to fulfill you and leave you feeling more out of control and discontented than before.
Yet there is a positive way to handle your stress, and that is to spend time alone with God. He will satisfy you more than anything else ever could. He gives you exactly what you truly need.
Psalm 103:2, 5 -- Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron
As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the waves washing across my feet made a gentle splash. It was such a gentle reminder of how Jesus has washed away all of our sins with His blood.
If you have ever asked God to forgive your sin, then you know how much relief it brings. Released from your transgressions, you were no longer oppressed by the stress and guilt they caused you. Rather, you were transformed into a new creation with a clean, peaceful heart and you regained your hopefulness for a bright future. Undoubtedly, such a wonderful liberation made you feel like celebrating.
Hopefully, you are enjoying your liberty alone.
Today, tell others about God's forgiveness and salvation so they can be liberated from their sin and experience His peace. It is too wonderful a message to keep to yourself, so share it with everyone you know.
Psalm 51:2, 13 -- Wash away all my guilt and make me clean again.... Then I will teach your ways to those who do wrong, and sinners will turn back to you.
Blessings and peace,
Sherron