By Lorri Freeman
One thing I have noticed about beach waves is that the stronger waves make it harder to see and grab shells. Untamed and mighty waves rush in and stir up sand, water, and debris alike making it impossible to see clearly. They rush in and out so fast that the force of the water quickly pulls itself and any shells I might have found through my grasping fingers.
Searching for shells has taught me patience and thoroughness as I wait and watch the waves. I look for the calmer waves so that I can see clearly. These waves reveal what is under the water and give me a chance to snatch up any shells I desire.
I think God feels this way about our quiet times with Him. We want to rush in and get the abridged version of any message so we can go on our way. God, however, desires our stillness as well as our time. We need to be slow and deliberate each day, allowing time to connect with God. (Lam. 3:25-26, Isaiah 30:15) Pull out your Bible and read the scriptures mentioned in your daily devotion. Look for cross references of other scriptures and read them too. Journal your thoughts and what God speaks to you on the side spaces of your devotional so that the next time you reread that day’s devotion, you see again this new insight.
Your loving Father wants you to seek Him out, reach for Him, be still and linger. (Psalm 37:7, Acts 17:27) As Cleere Cherry says in her devotional, Be Still, “increasing our faith requires diligence and stillness.” Seeking Him, learning about God through scripture reading and memorization builds knowledge of Him and creates in you, His peace. (John 14:27)
Jesus, help us to receive your peace through stillness and daily time with you. Help us to desire more of you and to make time in your presence a necessary part of our everyday life. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Resource scriptures: Psalm 46:10, Exodus 14:14, Psalm 62:5, Psalm 16:11
