August 2012 Seaside Devotions Archive

August 31, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a beautiful rainbow was displayed across the ocean! It was such a promise of His love and know He is always going to be there for me.

What a blessing it is to have God's love in you -- but you must not hoard it for yourself, God wants you to give it away... to love others lavishly and unconditionally as He has loved you.

Everyone in the world desires to be loved and accepted. God's love is the most wonderful gift He could give you. And you have the privilege of sharing that love by allowing it to flow through you into the lives of others.

Many people try to find happiness in getting, but true happiness can only be found in giving. Think of yourself as a dispensary of blessings. Be the kind of person others come to looking for love and blessings. You'll discover that as you give love away, you'll reap happiness and love in your own life.

Isn't it comforting to know you are lovable? Now share your love with someone else.

1 John 4:11 -- Beloved, if God loved us so very much, we also ought to love one another.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 30, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, all I could think of is how much His love covers us... as the waters cover the sand. I only imagined He had created us for His fellowship -- and this morning I felt Him closer than on some mornings when His love was not my focus!

Love should be number one on your spiritual priority list. You should learn about love, pray about love, and develop love by loving others. It will change your life!!!

God is love, so when you walk in His love you abide in Him, He is present. Because we walk in God's love by receiving and expressing it, we should not deceive ourselves into thinking we can love God while we hate other people according to 1 John 4:20.

We seek many things in the course of our life time hoping to find fulfillment.

But most of these things disappoint. When we decide to walk in love we discover it not only blesses others, it also blesses us.

1 Corinthians 12:31 -- But earnestly desire and zealously cultivate the greatest and best gifts and graces (the higher gifts and the choicest graces). And yet I will show you a still more excellent way (one that is better by far and the highest of them all -- love).

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 29, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a pelican struggling to get free of a fishing wire that had been left on the beach. I wanted to help, but he was too frantic to let me, so he continued to struggle and seemed to fight a losing battle... he remained a captive to his circumstance.

Jesus came to set the captives free. You are not free to do whatever you feel like doing, however, but you have been set free from legalism and are now free to follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit. A legalistic mentality says that everybody has to do exactly the same thing, the same way, all the time. But realize today the Spirit of God leads us individually, and often in unique, creative ways.

Jesus wants you to have liberty and not legalism. If the Son has set you free, you are free indeed according to John 8:36. You are free from sin. Free from manipulation and control. Free from competition with others. Free from addition. Free from fear. Free from selfishness. Free to be who you are. Free! Free! Free! What a blessing from our Father in heaven. Today, my friend, enjoy your freedom in Christ!!!

2 Corinthians 3:17 -- Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (emancipation from bondage, freedom).

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 28, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sea gulls were noisy along the beach -- making lots of noise. Their chatter was so loud they seemed to drown out the sound of quiet I longed for this morning! I wanted to hear my Father's voice.

Nothing can satisfy your longing for God except communion and fellowship with Him. The apostle John wrote, "And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings of it; but he who does the will of God and carries out His purpose in his life abides forever." (1 John 2:17)

The world makes it easy for you to fill your ears with all kinds of things that drown out the voice of God and push Him far into the background of your life. However, the day comes for every person when only God remains. Everything else in life eventually passes away; when it does, God will still be there. Seek God earnestly tonight and He will abide in you.

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

August 27, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I was expecting to see beauty along the shoreline. He has never failed to reveal the beauty of the Kingdom, whether it is in the sea creatures, the beautiful sunrise, the amazing waves -- but always I have walked with an expectant heart.

The reason I would come to the ocean expecting to hear from my Father, is because He says He will hear us when we call unto Him. What a wonderful promise to have. God is earnestly looking for someone to be good to -- but there is one requirement. You must be expecting, looking, and longing for God's goodness.

Hebrews 6:19 says hope is the anchor of the soul. Hope is the force that keeps you steady in a time of trial. Don't ever stop hoping. Things may not always turn out the way you want them to but even in disappointing times there is still reason to hope. Expect a miracle in your life. Expect good things!

Isaiah 30:18 -- And therefore the Lord (earnestly) wants (expecting, looking, and longing) to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts Himself up, that He may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are all those who (earnestly) wait for Him, who expect and look and long for Him (for His victory, His favor, His love, His peace, His joy, and His matchless, unbroken companionship)!

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 25, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the tide was rushing in and then back out -- taking the sand across my feet. It was so refreshing to feel the water as it rushed back into the ocean as I took the time to enjoy the moments of the walk. I didn't want it to end. I was enjoying it too much!

The swift pace and challenges of life can leave you weary and disheartened if you never take time to rest in your relationship with God. That is why it is crucial for you to be quiet before Him, surrendering yourself and your struggles to Him as an offering.

Be silent and relax, confident that He can handle everything that concerns you. Meditate on His sufficiency. Surely nothing is impossible for Almighty God -- the glorious Creator of heaven and earth. Receive His mighty strength and wonderful wisdom for every burden you carry.

It is in the stillness that God will give you the confidence and endurance for everything that comes your way. So know Him, my friend, and find peace.

Psalm 46:10 -- Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 24, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the little sandpipers were busy running across the sandy beach. They were running back and forth, scurrying around in the sand looking for food. It just reminded me of how we are with many busy activities that fill our day.

As a beloved child of God, there are some activities that are not worthy of your time. Pursuing possessions that quickly perish, holding grudges, fretting over the future, and achieving ambitions by unjust means, are all deeds that are not becoming to one who belongs to the Lord.

Strengthening your relationship with God through prayer and Bible study, representing Him faithfully in the world, being a good example, and telling others about Him so they can be freed from sin are all exercises that have enduring results in eternity.

You are a person of worth, so do not waste your precious life on unworthy pursuits. Rather, do only things that honor God. Then you can be sure that every minute is time well spent.

Psalm 49: 3-4 -- My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. I will incline my ear to a proverb.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 20, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I felt like I wanted to just go slow and not hurry my walk today. I knew I had several deadlines to meet, but this time with Jesus was so precious I didn't want to hurry -- and not enjoy every moment with Him on this day.

Do you ever feel as if time is your enemy? There is either too little of it when deadlines assail, or too much when waiting for some blessed hope. Yet understand that time is not your foe. Rather, it is a precision instrument that God uses in your life to develop your potential.

Through abbreviated seasons, when there isn't enough time to get everything done, He shows you His mighty wisdom, power, and mercy. During the long years of waiting -- while every emotion is tested -- He molds your faith and character.

Time isn't your enemy, friend. Time is merely a tool in God's hand to reveal Himself to you in a new way. His grace is sufficient for every moment of your life. So trust Him and look to Him whenever you are in need.

Psalm 102:13 -- It is time to be gracious to her, for the appointed time has come.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 19, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sun was sparkling and dancing across the waves, the dolphin were playing in the waves, the pelicans were diving for food. The world looked as though there were no problems and everything was in perfect harmony on that morning.

I think we feel like this sometimes... with so many promises and blessings that come with knowing God, one may get the false impression that there are no longer any trials or temptations for those who believe in Him. However, that is not true.

God comprehends that you are not perfect. You are still going to make mistakes -- dishonoring Him and hurting yourself in the process. You still have things to learn.

My friend, do not allow the guilt of a bad day to defeat you. Rather, repent of your mistake and accept it for what it is -- an opportunity for God's grace and instruction. Then embrace what He teaches so that the next time temptation comes knocking, you can do what is right.

Psalm 38: 9, 18 -- O Lord.... my groaning has not been hidden from you. I confess my guilt, My sin troubles me.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 18, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the sky was gray and the lightning seemed to fight with the clouds on the horizon. It was as though a war was about to happen in the heavenlies.

I thought of how we have our own wars within ourselves. Have you ever wondered if something within you fights against honoring God? If so, you are right. It is contrary to human nature to submit to Him. People's natural inclinations can only lead to destruction; there is nothing inherently good about them.

When you begin to seek God, it is not by natural means; rather, He draws you supernaturally by His Spirit. In fact, when you believe in Him to save you, He gives you His Holy Spirit to guide, teach, and transform you. It is then that you can obey Him, that you can truly do good.

Through the power of God's Spirit, you can choose to honor Him. Therefore, embrace the supernatural life and enjoy His extraordinary blessings. Because what He offers you is truly out of this world.

Psalm 14:1 -- There is no one who does good.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 17, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I stopped to watch the sun starting to rise out of the ocean across the horizon. It was early enough to sit and wait to watch the day being birthed right before my eyes. What a sight to behold!

It made me think of how we seem to have to wait many times to hear from God. After weeks, months, perhaps even years of waiting for the Lord to work in a certain situation, you may feel weary and your hope may be fading. Maybe you are wondering, Why is God taking so long? Why isn't He answering my prayers? Will this ever end?

Waiting is difficult, but it is also necessary because it builds your faith in Him. That is because you resolve to trust Him even when every circumstance tells you not to. God rewards you by fulfilling the desires of your heart in a way more wonderful than you ever thought possible.

Therefore, my friend, do not be discouraged -- your wait is not in vain. God's provision is coming, and when it does, you will truly have great reason to rejoice.

Psalm 13: 1, 3 -- How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?.... Consider and answer me, O Lord my God.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 15, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I found a jelly fish that had washed upon the sand and was dying. I scooted the little fish back into the water and watched it come alive. I thought of how miraculous the little creature is made -- with the insides showing clearly through to see all that it is made of.

I thought of how God sees us on the inside -- especially since He created us and put our hearts in us. No one understands you better than God. He knows you even better than you know yourself. He has a perfect, complete knowledge about you that is not bound by time or human limitations. He loves you.

Whenever you begin to think that no one appreciates the pressures you face, remember that God does. He recognizes how each trial affects you and how each challenge molds your character.

God will not allow one area of potential in you to go unexplored.

Have faith in your Creator and trust Him to lead you to the abundant life He formed you for. Certainly, He has amazing blessings planned for you. Seek Him first and foremost.

Psalm 139:1, 3 -- O Lord, you have examined me, and you know me.... You are familiar with all my ways.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 14, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus, the ocean sparkled like diamonds; the sand was as smooth as silk; the flowers and palms were brilliant with the glory of the sun shining through their leaves. Everything was so pristine; it made me think of how Heaven will be.

When I see the beauty we have to enjoy on this earth, it is almost hard to fathom the beauty we will experience in Heaven. But oh, how much more glorious it will be! God has promised that Heaven will be more glorious than anything we can imagine here on earth. Heaven is going to be so overwhelming when we see it!

At times I try to imagine what our Father has promised for those who follow Him to Heaven. He has given us a promise of life and glory with Him full of beauty and peace. The beauty, the glory, the peace. Who would want to risk missing that? His Word says He has prepared these things for us. Let's never stray from the path He is showing us.

So today as you walk your seashore of life, know nothing we have can compare to what is to come. Be ready for Him to come for us any day! You don't want to miss it!

John 14:2-3 -- In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 9, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the ocean waves were quietly lapping against the sand. I was the only person walking on the beach this glorious morning as I listened quietly for the Lord to speak to me. I so longed to hear from my Father -- to hear what He was saying to me on this day.

You need answers, so you humble yourself before God's throne and listen. However, there is no response. There is not even the hint of a reply.

There is only silence.

Repeatedly you pray, wondering why He has not addressed your pleas, searching your soul to see if you have done anything wrong. Your ears strain for a word. Soon your quest is no longer about getting an answer. You just want to hear His voice. My friend, that is exactly where you need to be.

Has God been quiet lately? He may be waiting until your sole desire is His presence in your life. Your best course is to keep seeking and loving Him. Because when He does finally answer, it is going to be a very important message, and you will not want to miss it.

Psalm 28: 1-2 -- O Lord my Rock, be not deaf and silent to me.... Hear the voice of my supplication as I cry to You for help.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 8, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I watched a sea gull flying over the waves as though he was in despair -- circling the waves as though he was frightened. I had never seen a sea gull do this before.

I thought of when we despair and it drives us to all sorts of destructive behaviors. We become so anxious to see our desires fulfilled that we turn to options that oppose God's best for us. We may even convince ourselves that He has abandoned us.

Of course, that is untrue. God will help us, in His timing. Yet that is why we need to protect ourselves from despair while we are waiting for Him to work -- so we do not miss His perfect will for our lives.

Therefore, meditate daily on His Word, on His promises, and on the occasions He has rescued you, because then it is so much easier to hold on to your hope. Wait expectantly for God's goodness no matter how long it takes, because that is the perfect position to be in to receive His very best.

Psalm 27:13 -- I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 5, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus, the sun rose slowly out of the sky and brought a glorious day into view! Wow -- it had been cloudy and dark when the light broke through to lighten up the day!!!!!

About Jesus, John 1:4-5 reports, "His life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it." The light of God's love and salvation can never be quenched.

When you are lonely, draw near to the Lord and He will brighten your day. When sorrow tries to settle in around you and tempt you to feel discouraged, lost, illuminate your life. He will do it -- He will speak to your heart and remind you that are not alone.

When you encounter emotional clouds or rain, take a moment to ask God to light your way with His everlasting hope. He always answers the prayers of His children.

Psalm 80:18-19 -- We shall not turn back from you; give us life, and we will call upon your name! Restore us, O Lord God of hosts! Let your face shine, that we may be saved!

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 4, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, a tiny seagull landed directly in front of me, almost causing me to trip over him. I was totally caught off guard as I walked along the sandy beach -- unprepared to have my walk interrupted by the tiny bird.

God is never surprised by the unpredictable events of this world. He is never shaken, and He is never changed by anything that happens. He is the same today, tomorrow, and forever, and He is in control of all things.

Why can you face the future with a clear sense of hope and promise? Because He takes care of all that concerns you. Whether the stock market rises or falls, God remains the same. Though health issues come and go, He will always prove to be faithful.

You have a sure hope for your life that holds steady no matter how stormy or bright life becomes -- and that is the hope you have in Jesus Christ.

Psalm 97:2 -- Clouds and darkness are round about Him (as at Sinai); righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 3, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, I was reminded that our Father in heaven set the boundaries for the water to come so far and no more. He set the boundaries -- just as He has set the boundaries for each of our lives and the plan He made from the beginning of time! How awesome is that?

God created you at this appointed time in history and in your unique circumstances for a reason. Your experiences have not only shaped your personality and values, but they will affect how you serve God and to whom you are able to minister.

Although your life may be difficult at present, it is not a mistake that you are where you are. God has set boundaries of your life not for harm, but for good. Not to cause you pain, but to give you purpose.

You may not understand how God could use your situation, but He will bless you abundantly if you will allow Him to lead you. Therefore, listen to Him and seek His wisdom in your circumstances. Then rejoice as He turns your limitations into wonderful opportunities.

Psalm 16:5-6 -- Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places.

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

August 2, 2012

As I walked the seaside with Jesus today, the waves were washing gently over my feet. I felt the love of God touching my heart along the shoreline in a special way... as though He wanted to give even more of Himself to me, even though I felt truly unworthy! I truly felt the love of God on this glorious day -- even in my very human form!

Psalm 15 goes to the heart of humanity's deepest problem -- is anyone worthy of living in heaven with God? You are told that you must be honest and kind and that you must keep all the Lord’s commands and never do wrong to others. Reviewing these requirements, you may question whether you can eer truly meet God's standards.

That is as it should be. The inability to be :"good enough" makes you aware of your need for God's help, which He graciously provided through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ.

When you trust Him for salvation, God covers you with His righteousness and makes you worthy of dwelling with God for eternity. So believe in Him, trusting His provision Because then you can rest in His goodness forever.

Psalm 15:1 -- Lord, who can dwell in Your tent? Who can live on Your holy mountain?

Blessings and peace,
Sherron

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