"Fear not, for I HAVE redeemed you; I have called you by name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you." Isaiah 43:1~2
There is a magnificence about the sea that is both breathtaking and beautiful! Water in any form seems to possess healing qualities and is both refreshing and cleansing. Living near the sea, I am often drawn to the tiny creatures I see digging their way helplessly into the sand for refuge after they've been swept to shore by a strong wave. It's funny how quickly they scurry back to where they are safe. As I think about this, I begin to wonder.....aren't we like the sea creatures in some ways? We seek and run to safety when we are washed ashore by a disappointment or painful experience. Some creatures of the sea are so battered that they become broken and all that is left is the shell. There is purpose even in the shell. These shells are reminders of beauty to me and each one is unique and individually created. You are unique too and created by God and when anything troubles you, remember, you can run to God and seek trust and refuge in Him. It's so easy if we begin with PRAISE! Praise brings us into the mighty presence of God! His Spirit is available for our comfort. Isaiah 61:3 says HE is there "To console those who mourn in Zion. To give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.". Praise repels and replaces the heavy spirit, sort of like a protection, God calls it a garment, like a coat or covering. What a beautiful picture!!! The little sea creatures have a lovely and beautiful covering over them when they hide back to their refuge of sand. Perhaps the next time you are at the seashore you will be blessed to find a few as a reminder of God's goodness and protection in your own life.
God gives us these little reminders daily in all of creation as we look at HIS handiwork for answers, direction, and wisdom! Oh PRAISE HIM for the lessons of the sea and of all nature. May your Monday be filled with promise....give HIM your ashes and HE will make something beautiful out of your life.....may your life be as beautiful as the seashells!!!
P.S. I found all these seashells yesterday at the seashore!!!
