July 2011 Seaside Devotions Archive

July 31, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a sand piper was crouched at the wave waiting for the tiny fish to come back onto the shoreline so he could have his breakfast. He was patiently waiting for the right moment to capture his fresh morsels of food.

I thought of the word "wait." No one likes to be kept waiting. The hold button on telephones ought to be outlawed, you might find yourself thinking. The line at a popular restaurant, the crowded waiting room of a doctor's office, the plumber who is late, a lunch date who keeps you waiting, slow lines at the grocery -- these are all time wasters.

But waiting on God is a different matter. You may go through periods during which you feel He is not listening to your prayers. Though you ardently beseech Him, heaven is silent. During those times, it is important to understand that the "wait" is part of the answer God gives to you. Waiting is part of the mystery of His plan and the degrees by which it will be unfolded to you. God answers you in His time, not yours and mine. We all have to learn to wait for Him.

Psalm 130:5-6 -- "I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His Word I hope."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 30, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sun glistened on the water like diamonds floating on the waves. It was such evidence that His ocean is full of life that we partake of every day!

As the psalm says, God is the fountain of life, and by His light you see light. He is the source of all good things, and it is your privilege to go to Him for nurturing and encouragement, day after day. Your regeneration in God is a lifelong affair.

God is the light by which you see the world and yourself. God is the light through which you understand your reason for being. God is the author of your existence, the Creator of your ability to see His light. His light discloses to you the drama of all that He has created. Stay close to His light. If you stray from His light, your world will be lunged into darkness. His light will enable you to fulfill the purpose for which you were created. Today, be full of His life and know you are in His purpose!

Psalm 36:9 -- "With You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 29, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, Ii watched the dolphin playing along the shoreline. They are always a joy to watch, knowing they are fulfilled and full of His purpose in the ocean.

They always make me think of heaven. We use the word heaven to refer to the joyous fulfillment of the purpose of our life -- union with God. Certainly life offers us many fleeting foretastes of heaven, yet our present life is truly only preparation for the ultimate reward God has for you. All the pain, care, and imperfections of life will fail away. The restless yearning that goads and prods us will be gone at last. You and your loved ones will be permanently reunited. All of our errors will be forgiven. All distance between us and love will be erased.

We will have perfect rest and happiness and complete freedom from want and anxiety. Let heaven keep you going as you allow God's unbreakable promise to lead you through this life to the joy that is in Him.

Psalm 17:15 -- "When I awake in heaven, I will be fully satisfied, for I will see you face to face."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 28, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sand pipers with resting on the sand... just quietly gathered on the sand, lying down for a peaceful morning.

My thoughts immediately went to the rest of the Lord -- and what does that look like? Rest is a variety of activities that includes loafing, goofing off, hanging out, wandering around, sauntering, and killing time. Rest is that restorative time where you place, leaving obligations and responsibilities on your desk for a while. You just let things happen. You go for undirected walks in your imaginations where you are like a small child, ready for the next adventure to turn up.

For a while you can let go of your cares and skip along behind God. Who knows what will happen? You can wear a different pair of spectacles that let you see things as if they were new. You can be like a butterfly on a summer morning. Doing nothing can revive a waning spirit, and it is best done in the security and comfort of God's immeasurable love. So today, rest in Him and know what true rest is.

Psalm 16:9 -- "With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 27, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sky was beautiful as the sun parted the clouds with its rays streaming from the heaven into the ocean. It was like the glory of the Lord was breaking through to say, "Good morning, my child."

Consider the moments you have when you sense God's power, presence, and peace -- just like this morning -- moments when the clouds part and a sudden, all-prevailing sense of peace washes over you. You know then that you are truly loved by Almighty God, and you are filled with gratitude and a new sense of security. It is as if you have suddenly discovered who you really are, and you feel more alive than ever.

These moments become more frequent if you cultivate quality time with God. This requires spiritual discipline and fortitude. If you determine to pursue this course, however, the rewards are boundless and will immeasurable enrich your life. Daily prayer, Scripture reading, and meditation on God's attributes will deepen your understanding and make you a ready receptacle for His grace.

Psalm 29:11 -- "He will give His people strength. He will bless them with peace."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 26, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the ocean seemed even more grandeur than most mornings. There was a mist that hovered over it, and you sensed the unlimited power of the Creator who set the boundaries of the ocean in place.

God's grandeur inspires awe. His perfect goodness is imponderable. He is so big; you are so small. He is beyond your understanding. How then can you love Him? By embracing Him and making Him part of your daily life.

To do that, you must first acknowledge your utter dependence on Him. You must gaze at the world around you with new eyes, eyes full of love and admiration for His countless wonders. You must constantly remind yourself that His handiwork is everywhere and in everything, and that He is greater than the most marvelous thing you can imagine. You must wake up to the truth that you are important because He made you, He loves you, He protects you, and He preserves you. He is your strength.

Psalm 18:1 -- "I love you, Lord; You are my strength."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 25, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I came to a small pile of rocks that had an amazing young growth of ivy betweens the crevices. Ivy is always finding ways to start growth in places that seem almost impossible to the human mind.

Haven't you seen tendrils of ivy that climbs the sides of brick structures until they cover every square inch. Ivy stems are strong, hearty, and almost unbreakable, and they grip the surface so tightly that only the most determined effort can dislodge them. Ivy is capable of weathering the extremes of both heat and cold without withering and falling away.

When you place your hope in God, you are clinging to Him in the same tenacious way that ivy clings to brick and mortar. When the sun is warm and the rain is gentle, you grow strong and hearty, reaching and moving as you strengthen your grip on God's neverfailing love. Then when the strong winds blow and the rain beats at you, you know that you can hang on. You cannot be moved when you are connected to the Vine!

Psalm 71:14 -- "As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 24, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, my thoughts were wandering back and forth to the good days and bad days of my life. It was as the tide flowed in, there were good thoughts. When it receded, the thoughts of loss and failure would wash over my thoughts.

Thoughts of failure, loss, and hopelessness can invade your mind, chasing, tormenting, and even destroying you. You run from these thoughts, only to find that they are nipping at your heels. You try to hide, only to realize that they are stalking you.

When angry and bitter thoughts leave you running for your life, God offers sanctuary and shelter. With one wave of His mighty hand, He chases away the brutal thoughts, and, one by one, He replaces them with thoughts of kindness, goodness, gentleness, and faith. Love transforms your mind, and hope restores your heart. He promises that even though you may hear the wild beasts growling in the distance, they can never again harm you as long as you dwell in the shelter of His loving arms.

Psalm 42:5 -- "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted in me? Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 23, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the waves were high due to heavy winds and a heavy sky. On the horizon I watched a ship tossed in waves, but the ship seemed steady and headed into the course without wavering.

Turbulence churns overhead as the distraught ocean whips against the ship. The captain struggles to find safe harbor. The captain knows that under such trying circumstances it is easy to become disoriented and be swept into treacherously shallow water where the vessel could be torn apart on the rocks. Rather than trust his own senses, the wise captain checks his compass and watches carefully to spot the guiding beam from the lighthouse.

Similarly, you can become disoriented as you make your way through life's stormy seas. God promises that He will guide you with His wisdom and will light the troubled waters with the faithful beams of His love. When you place your hope in Him, you can be sure that you will find your way safely home. Today, decide to let Him be the captain of your ship in this life. He will guide you safely through everything you go through in this life! He knows the way!

Psalm 111:10 -- "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 22, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a sea gull dive towards a lovely crane... the tall bird kept dodging the attacks of the bird. Finally, he made a getaway and was out of danger of the attacks.

Danger. It is a word that raises your anxiety level because of its dire implications. Dangers threaten your life and those of your loved ones. Dangers shake your world and destroy your security. Dangers make you question everything -- especially why God would allow them.

Yet when you know God and trust Him for salvation, perils can only come so near to you because God protects your eternal destination. Though hazards may trouble you on earth, you can be confident that they won't follow you into heaven.

So do not fear the dangers. Rather, thank God that the worst that can happen is limited -- and it is nothing compared to the wonderful things He has planned for you.

Psalm 91:1 -- "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 21, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, it was stormy and looked dark on the horizon. I could have assumed that it was going to be a bad day, but I chose to believe the stormy clouds would pass and the day was going to be glorious -- and so it was!

It all has to do with our thoughts each day, as to how our day will be. When speaking with others, do you always assume the best -- or the worst? Are you pessimistic in your discourse or positive? Remember this, your conversation is self-fulfilling.

If you complain -- emphasizing the negative aspects of your life -- you will always be governed by your problems. Your trials will set the tone of your life. Yet if you consciously praise God in all things, you will find a new confidence and strength that nothing can take away. With Him, truly nothing will be impossible for you.

This is not a naive optimism. Rather, it is the deep-seated understanding of God's unfaltering love and faithfulness. So yes, my friend, let's praise Him all day, because every day you experience God's presence is a good day, and a gift to you!

Psalm 92:1-2 -- "Lord Most High! It is wonderful each morning to tell about your love and at night to announce how faithful you are."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 20, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a sea gull land on the seashore. His wing was wounded and he seemed a little lost. A pelican came along and started harassing him, and I chased him away, knowing the bird was already wounded.

I thought of the grace of God. He will never kick you when you are down. He won't look at you when you are feeling tired and unworthy and say, "What's the matter with you? Try harder!"

God is not looking for impressive feats of showmanship from you; rather, He's looking at the attitude of your heart. He has compassion for you when you have failed, and He treats your wounded spirit with love.

God accepts you, my friend, just as you are. Don't ever fear that you are not good enough for Him, because that is not what God is interested in. He just wants you to be eager to obey Him and willing to trust Him more. Because then you are truly a person He can work with.

Psalm 51:17 -- "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 19, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the sun rise out of the ocean under a formation of clouds that were unbelievable. The Lord never creates the day the same way -- it is always unique and beautiful.

Today just think about God -- how He is creative and powerful, wise, holy, and completely faithful.

Consider God's works -- how He has helped His people throughout history. Through His power, the Red Sea parted for the Israelites, the walls of Jericho crumbled, David slew Goliath, and Jesus was raised from the dead.

Meditate on His character -- how all He does is because of His unconditional love for you. He is mighty and good, virtuous and trustworthy, wise and compassionate.

Today think about God and voice your praise to Him out loud. He is the magnificent King of glory who has plans for you that are better than you can imagine. Certainly He deserves your adoration.

Psalm 47:7 -- "God is King of all the earth, so sing a song of praise to Him."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 18, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the water was calm and still... there was not even a slight hint of a breeze... you could almost hear the fish moving in the water it was so still. It was one of those mornings you just knew He was saying, "Listen for my voice."

Funny -- it is such a contrast to our world. We fill our world with noise. If it is not the television or radio, it is the blare of activities or our own anxious thoughts. We expect to connect with God through the tumult, but are we really listening to Him?

When your world is in an uproar, your best plan is to step away from the commotion and listen to Him. He speaks words of peace to your soul and strength to your life.

Your life is too hectic to keep going without taking a few minutes to seek Him in the quietness. Stand in His presence today and know that God is with you. His voice is the best sound you will hear all day... on any day!

Psalm 46:10 -- "Be still, and know that I am God."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 17, 2011

As I walk the seaside with Jesus today, the pelicans were having to fly around the poles set in the shallow water of the ocean. They were obstacles in the path of their flight, but they went around and kept soaring along the seashore.

The obstacles in front of you will not defeat or destroy you, but they will be the vessels by which God brings you to your ultimate goal.

Recall David's battle against Goliath and how all of Israel's army was afraid to confront the nine-foot Philistine giant. Even the gargantuan Goliath could not overcome David. David gained the victory through God's help, and eventually Israel recognized David's leadership because of it.

My friend, do not fear your obstacles in life. Though you are overwhelmed right now, you will not succumb to them. Rather, thank God that He will use them to fulfill His promises to you. He is training you for a great victory, so face those obstacles with courage.

Psalm 144:1 -- "Blessed by the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 16, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a small fish swimming in the water until it was out of sight. It was gone and no where to be found... out to sea.

Have you ever wondered, "If I were gone, would anyone notice?" Even if you have never thought those words, you can understand the sentiment behind them. Sometimes people feel so powerless and insignificant that they wonder if anyone cares for them at all.

God does not forget them and neither should you. If fact, God may be calling you to be His representative of love and support to them.

Who do you know that needs a friend? Rather than forget about them, find out what yo can do to better their situation. Sometimes your listening ear, willing heart, and prayers can encourage a person more than you realize. Because of you, they will know God has not forgotten them.

Psalm 82:3 -- "Defend the weak and the orphans; defend the rights of the poor and suffering."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 15, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a puppy on the beach drink water from a puddle that had been left from the storm. He was thirsty from his walk on the beach, just as I was. But I needed fresh water and couldn't drink from the little puddle on the beach.

You wouldn't willingly drink water that had toxins in it; you would find clean water to relieve your thirst. You probably wouldn't eat food that was poisoned either. Rather, you would wrestle with your hunger until you found wholesome sustenance.

Is the same true of your mind and the thoughts you allow to wander into that space?

Maybe you supply your brain with negative chewed-over thoughts of hurt and disappointment. Or maybe boredom -- a sign your intellect is starved -- causes you to dine on whatever junk comes along. Unfortunately, these diets aren't beneficial at all.

My precious friend, be careful what you feed your mind -- consume only what is good, healthy, and holy. Nourish your understanding with God's Word. It is the only cuisine that will truly satisfy your mental hunger.

Psalm 77: 12 -- "I will think about all that you have done; I will meditate on all your mighty acts."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 14, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the rain came suddenly and almost caught me off guard. But there was a tiny cover that I ran to, just in time... and I remained dry from the rain. Immediately after the rain, my Father sent me a beautiful rainbow to remind me of His promise to always cover me with His love! Isn't that amazing?

What are you feeling today? Do you feel lost in the storm, wet from the rain of problems in life? Are you feeling alone and discouraged from struggles in your path? Do you want to quit and give up?

I am sure that each of us have those feelings on gloomy days, or days that problems seem to loom over us like the storms that threaten with bursts of lightning and thunder. But that is the time when we run to the Father and let Him cover us. That is when we look beyond the clouds and wait for the rainbow to come breaking forth. That is the time we lift our voice to praise Him and know that His promises never fail. That is when we know we can be secure in His Word -- His Word that He never breaks as we humans tend to do... because after all, we are human. That is the time we can rest from the storm -- underneath His mighty wings.

Today, whatever clouds you see on the horizon, look up and know the rainbow is about to come through for you -- the reminder of His love, His Word, His hope for you! He is your refuge from the storm always!

Psalm 91:2-4 -- "I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I confidently trust. He will cover you with His pinions and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 13, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I found a piece of puzzle lying in the sand. It looked like part of a flower, but without seeing the rest of the puzzle, I couldn't make it out.

Have you ever faced a puzzle that seemed completely unsolvable -- but then something shifted your perspective and altered your understanding of it? Suddenly, you saw the answer clearly. It was there all along but you couldn't grasp it until your vantage point changed.

Often, we cannot understand God's direction because of our perspective on time. We deal with issues in the present and are quick to categorize things as "deal with now" or "wait until later." Unfortunately, that is not always the right viewpoint.

What God is doing in you isn't about "now versus later," but "temporary versus eternal." So don't fight Him -- He's teaching you to see life as you have never understood it before.

Psalm 78:39 -- "He remembered that they were only human, like a wind that blows and does not come back."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 12, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sandpipers were following along in a row... then one decided to go a different direction, off on his own path. I was not sure who the leader was, but the others kept following the one at the head of the line.

Generally, people are either leaders or followers. Those who serve like to give of themselves, but are often pulled in a hundred directions -- trying to please everyone. Those who lead can be inspirational to others -- but they sometimes become too self-important.

For both these groups, it is exceedingly important to remember whom they are trying to please -- the only One truly worthy of their honor and praise -- Jesus Christ.

For leaders, they must remember that God is the ultimate authority. Those who follow must serve out of obedience, rather than a desire to be accepted.

My friend, whether you are a leader or a follower, God is the only One you will ever need to please. So honor Him with all you do! He will lead you to the right place always.

Psalm 76:7 -- "You are to be feared (with awe and reverence)!"

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 11, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I picked up a tiny shell that would one day become a beautiful conch shell that makes a favorite collectible for the shell collectors along the beach. It had to begin in a state of almost "being overlooked because it was so tiny," to grow into the beautiful masterpiece God intended for it to become one day.

I thought of how we are when we begin to think of our own destinies. We want to be great immediately, but my friend, if you want to be truly great, you must start small and be honorable with all of your obligations. Practice the standards that God instructs in His Word -- even for the smallest tasks -- and He will give you wisdom and success in the great challenges ahead.

Because the more you rise in reputation and power, the more complicated your responsibilities and decisions will be. But if you are guided by godly principles, the right course of action will be clear.

You will be entrusted with more as you show that you have been faithful with the small duties you have been given. So learn to honor God right where you are, even though it may seem insignificant. People will see you are reliable and will reward you with their trust for greater things.

Psalm 72: -- "1 Give the gift of wise rule to the king, O God, the gift of just rule to the crown prince."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 10, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the tiny fish was floundering in the puddle of water on the beach. He seemed to have almost given up when I gave him a gentle push back into the water of the waves. He took off, revived, swimming quickly to safety.

Have you ever felt you were at the end of your rope? No matter how you add it up, there is no way your resources will stretch any more. You have done all you can, and you are exhausted.

Like a traveler in the desert with an empty canteen, you are out of options. Yu can't go on in these conditions, and any hope of finding an oasis of relief has dissipated like a mirage.

The only thing left is to throw yourself onto the mercy of God.

Good -- now He can work. As long as you can accomplish something in your own strength, you will always doubt whether your deliverance was from God or if you achieved it yourself. Your resources have failed, but His haven't. Trust Him to help you.

Psalm 73:26 -- "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 9, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sun was positioned perfectly between the ocean and the morning sky... it almost looked like a flashlight was shining on the water because the sun was not yet obvious. What an incredible sight -- and I only saw it because I was positioned at the right place and the right time of the morning.

Have you ever been the right person in the right place at the right time? When it happens it is quite unexpected. All your circumstances align in a way that is unimaginable, and you realize that something greater than yourself must be controlling every element of your situation. Your experiences have all prepared you for this in a way that you couldn't have anticipated.

That is how God works, my friend. He works in a way that when everything's done, there is no other explanation for the outcome other than His perfect timing. So don't worry about the things you have to wait for -- just obey God with confidence. Because when the right moment comes, you will certainly be ready.

Psalm 75:2 -- "You ay, 'I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly.'"

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 8, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I was carrying coffee along the shore with me when I hit a rock that was hidden beneath the sand. My coffee went flying out of the cup and I nearly lost my balance........ but I recovered and continued my walk.

I heard the Lord saying to me, "There will be times when tragedy strikes, but you have to be strong." The wind is knocked out of you, but you must stay steady for others. You try to be brave, but you just want to cry.

My friend, the more you insist you are an unshakable mountain of strength, the more likely you are to crumble.

If you really want to be strong for those around you, then direct them to God and be honest about how He helps you in your weakness. It is your trust in God that makes you strong, not anything you can do on your own. So go ahead and weep, but also trust God to be strong enough for you -- and everyone else as well.

Psalm 125:1 -- "Those who trust in God are like Zion Mountain; nothing can move it, a rock-solid mountain you can always depend on."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 7, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the pelican dive again and again, and each time he came up with a fish in his mouth! I wondered if he had to practice to learn to do that or if the bird was just born with that gift?

I thought about me and my spiritual walk. So many of my spiritual lessons require practice -- that is the simple truth of the matter. I have had to practice to learn to walk through the experiences of life and remain strong in my faith. You may believe you know everything necessary about faith or obedience; yet almost as soon as you express your confidence about that area, you're plunged headlong into a situation that puts your understanding to the test.

Don't be surprised -- it is through this process that what you have learned intellectually becomes a practical reality in you. It is like a physical workout -- your knowledge of the machines at the gym means nothing until you put it to use and actually do the exercises.

So today thank God for training you through your trials and strengthening your spiritual muscles. It is preparation that you will certainly be glad to have.

Psalm 94:12 -- "How blessed the man you train, God, the woman you instruct in your Word."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 6, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the parasail take off with the person's feet waiving high in the air. I know from personal experience that you would never get in that parasail harness if you did not have trust that you were not alone on that trip...I would be sure to take Jesus with me as I climbed into the harness to be hoisted into the air!

It is profoundly freeing when you realize, "God, I never want to be anywhere without you. I know you will always love and help me." It takes time to internalize that God will never lie to you. It requires many instances of experiencing His faithfulness to completely understand that God is absolutely unlike the people who have let you down.

Friend, truly trusting God is never automatic, but He is a patient and wise teacher. So set your heart on realizing the truth about Him, and rejoice as you discover your best hopes are true. Undoubtedly, when you learn to trust Him and see His faithful activity in your life, you will want to sing and shout for joy... which is exactly what I did as I sailed high in the air on the parasail... Jesus was flying with me!

Psalm 106:12 -- "Then they believed His words were true and broke out in songs of praise."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 5, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt impressed to walk on a different path than I normally walked. I felt Him saying, go the other direction, even though I wanted to go on the same path I always go... but I obeyed, not knowing why, but in faith, obeyed that small voice.

As David wrote the psalm about Israel's journey to the Promised Land, he knew one very important thing to be true: Whenever people would turn to God and obey Him, He would help them achieve victory, even when it did not make sense to obey. This was a principle that David was committed to because he had seen God lead him to so many triumphs.

That's why rule number one for you is this: Seek God and do as He says, no matter what. Not only will God guide you in your circumstances, but you will know Him even better.

So as situations arise today -- negative or positive -- look to God to obey Him. It is a simple rule, but is is one that will assuredly bring you joy and success.

Psalm 105:4 -- "See the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually!"

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 4, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I noticed a plane flying over with a banner that stated, "Freedom is today." Wow -- what an awesome banner to see on the July 4th holiday.

I thought about our freedom in Christ, that has been given to us freely with the sacrifice of the life He so freely gave. Do we truly realize how free we can be when we turn the Lordship of our lives over to Him. Do we truly walk in that freedom once we make that decision?

When we put Him in charge of our lives, we are free from worry, anxiety, fear, sickness, provision worries, freedom from the judgments of others... He has provided freedom in every area of our lives, once we determine to live in His freedom. And it is forever and ever, not just on this day that we recognize the day of freedom.

Today, who are you serving? Are you servant to man, to the thoughts of others, to fear, worry, anxiety? Are you bound up in problems you can't solve? Today I declare that you are free -- free to live in Christ, and to never worry again. Today I declare that you receive that freedom for the rest of your life! Live in freedom on this day! It is your gift from Him.

Psalm 105:2-3 -- "Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell about all His wonderful works! Honor His Holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice!"

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 3, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched the dolphin jumping out of the water... high into the air. They have such strength and power to move across the water. They are an amazing creature!

The spiritual strength that God gives you is founded on the wonderworking triad of faith, hope, and love. Your Lord shows you how you are to behave with others by actively demonstrating these three virtues through His own unblemished behavior toward you.

If you take God at His word, your ordinary day-to-day life should be a reflection or an acting-out of His promises to you; and your relationships with others should be an energetic, vital mirror image of the trustworthy, loving, and merciful God you have come to know. It is really as simple as one, two, three. Faith, hope, love. You must strive for faith, hope, and love in all your dealings, whether with others or with yourself, if you want to be fully pleasing to God.

Psalm 33:22 -- "Yes, Lord, let your constant love surround us, for our hopes are in you alone."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 2, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched two little sandpipers standing beside one another... being so close and loving to one another. It reminded me of the power of love we carry with us daily when we walk in love with Jesus.

The New Testament reduces the laws of the Old Testament to one overriding rule: love. If you want to know what true love is, you only need to study God's behavior toward you. God is generous, forbearing, kind, faithful, supportive, nurturing, forgiving, and just. He is everything you want and need.

You exist in God and know God through your own acts of love in the world. He is in the face of everyone you reach out to, no matter from what station in life He or she might come. His love is in your gentle word to a friend in pain, in the simple work of making a home for your family, and in the kindness you show to a stranger. When you live in love, you become more and more like God.

Psalm 145:20 -- "The Lord watches over all who love Him."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

July 1, 2011

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I found myself alone along the shore line. There was not one other soul walking this day... and all of a sudden I truly felt alone, until I realized I carried the one that would never leave me.

Although you sometimes feel that you are along and He is far away, God is not a distant power. He is an active presence in your life. When you develop the habit of reading the tone and incidents of your days as if He shaped them, you gain insight into how to draw closer to Him.

Things don't just happen. Those things you may call "accidents," "surprises," or "discoveries" are actually revelations of God's love and constant concern for you. If you keep your faith and trust in God, the meaning of these things will become clear. If you greet each new day and expect it to reveal the glory, power, and love of God, your hours will be filled with joy and awe. His mystery will lead you toward Him.

Psalm 107:43 -- "Those who are wise will take all this to heart; they will see in our history the faithful love of the Lord."

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

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