The pace of life can get hectic. It's easy to miss the God-stops along life's journey. You know, the little ways God makes His presence known on a daily basis: the bumper sticker that encourages you to relax because God is in control, or the beautiful sunset that graces the sky in the evening. Time away offers an opportunity to regroup and evaluate what's really important. A chance to draw near to the Creator of the universe.
God's creation serves as a constant reminder of His presence. Visiting some of Hawaii's most beautiful beaches was no exception. From the glorious color of the water, to the sound of the waves lapping at the shoreline, I was reminded of the greatness of God, "The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land, " (Psalm 95:5; KJV). The book of Proverbs mentions God's wisdom when He created the oceans, "When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I (wisdom)was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him," (Proverbs 8:29-30; word in italics mine).
Taking in the beauty of the ocean from the sandy beach was proof enough of a mighty God. The life contained within the ocean was the icing on the cake. Donning our snorkel gear, we waded in to the salt water. A whole different world awaited us. Crystal clear water made it easy to see brightly colored fish of all shapes and sizes. Gliding slowly through the water gave us the chance to spot several sea creatures we would have missed had we been in a hurry.
Snowflake eels, green sea turtles, yellow tangs, and numerous types of parrot fish all welcomed us to their underwater world. I was struck by the beauty of the coral that offered both protection and food for the creatures we encountered. I was gripped by the thought that a person could be swimming in the same water I was, yet be oblivious to this amazing sea life because they didn't have snorkel gear.
Oftentimes I'm like the swimmer without snorkel gear. Enjoying only a portion of the blessings God has for me. Instead of continuing to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as the Apostle Peter instructs, I become satisfied with where I am, and begin missing the nuggets of truth meant for my growth.
Following salvation, God's will for me is to be conformed to the image of Christ. Something that happens over a lifetime. As I consciously allow God to direct the pace of my life, I'm more acutely aware of His presence on a daily basis. Growth requires effort. But the effort is well worth it, when it results in developing a close relationship to the Creator of the universe!
Are you so busy that you've missed the God-stops along life's journey? Will you take the time to seek God's presence on a daily basis? Be mindful of the nuggets of truth the Lord has for you and draw near to Him today!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your daily presence. Forgive me when I take it for granted. Your creation points clearly to You and it's exciting to know that I can have a close relationship with the God who created it all! Help me to constantly seek the nuggets of truth that will help me to grow in grace and in the knowledge of You, so I can be all that You created me to be. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Thanks Maria, for a beautiful Monday post! I remember my first time snorkling in the coastal waters of Belize, I was so amazed at the beauty of the underwater world!
ReplyDeleteAnd you're right, many times we are not fully aware of all the blessings God wants to bestow on us or has already poored down on us.
Enjoy this week my friend, thanks for sharing your thoughts!
This is a good post reminding us of God-stops in our world that contains so much beauty.
ReplyDeleteHow ironic that you posted this today. Just yesterday, I was driving around Oahu, shopping for my daughter's birthday presents, and it ocurred to me. I have been so busy trying to keep the kids busy, the hotel room clean, my writing on track, and complaining that I forget all about the God-stops. I took the time alone in the van to praise God for His creation and that He is always with me.
ReplyDeleteMaria, you have a stirring way with words. I'm in awe of how you can see God's plan reflected on so many levels, from an uplifting bumper sticker to the color of the ocean sparkling in the sunlight. I try not to be so preoccupied that I miss the God-stops, which serve as nudges keeping us on the right path in our lives, I believe. We must affirmatively seek joy, right? :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post. Enjoy your week.
Marja - Your snorkeling experience sounds wonderful! I'd love to try warm-water snorkeling some day. We're such a blessed people it's easy to take things for granted or begin thinking we deserve them. Time to work on a gratitude attitude! Have a blessed week!:)
ReplyDeleteTerra - Thanks so much for stopping by! It's so important to look for God's hand at work, so we can join Him where He is, and give Him all the praise He's due! Happy Tuesday! God bless.
Ralene - Happy Birthday to your daughter! I know the feeling you expressed so well! Yesterday, I had my own time of just thanking God for His constant presence and for putting up with me! He IS so good, and yet I take Him so for granted! Praising puts things in proper perspective though, doesn't it?! Have a blessed week, my friend!
ReplyDeleteJanette - Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement! I love the way Matthew puts it in Matthew 6:33, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things (life's necessities -food, drink, and clothing) shall be added unto you." He is worthy to be praised for who He is alone, yet He showers us with blessings AND allows us to take part in His kingdom work! What an awesome God we serve! Have a beautiful week, enjoying Him!
What a wonderful reminder, thank you. I feel as though I've been in "whirlwind mode" for many months now, and am beginning to get some balance back.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Karen
Hi Maria -
ReplyDeleteThis message is timely for me. A frustrating event almost ruined my day. Thankfully, the Lord reminded me how much worse it could have been if I'd not been made aware of the problem.
We get so wrapped up in everyday events that we often miss the blessings under the surface.
Susan :)
Karen - I don't know how you keep up with it all! 'Whirlwind mode' is probably a good description! Good to hear you're achieving balance. Have a very blessed, relaxing weekend, my friend! :)
ReplyDeleteSusan - Oh, I'm good at letting circumstances get to me, spoiling an otherwise wonderful day! Glad you were able to back up and see things from God's perspective! Hugs and blessings to you, my sister!
Hi Maria -
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful experiences you had on vacation!
I try to take note of things that catch my attention. Often, it's God's way of saying, "Don't miss this. There's something I want to show you."
Blessings,
Susan :)