Sand pipers are crafty and have learned to dance on the shoreline to receive the best source of nutrition. There are a variety of organisms that thrive near the waves that roll on the shore. Perhaps they have learned what we can miss out at times; patience is key to victory. Life is a delicate dance that comes at you like a series of rolling waves hoping to discourage you from all that God has for you. Keep dancing with the wave of life and learn to stay close to the shoreline. Jesus taught us when He said, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! 38 Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’ (John 7:37,38 NLT)” The ocean teaches that life can be found near the edge of the water, yet in contrast as you move further inland only sand scorched barren land is found. When you remain close to Jesus you begin to live life the way it was intended to be lived.
Waves come on shore as circumstances to distract and discourage you from getting closer to Jesus who is the true source of peace. When you feel anxious and frustrated it’s because the waves have pushed you further inland. It happens when you least expect it. Each day learn to take inventory of your emotions. When you feel you are becoming dehydrated by life and trials come like the sun’s rays pounding you, it’s time to draw back to the water. Just as a thermometer measures the temperature in the environment, our emotions serve to make us aware of what is happening around us and in us. When feelings are triggered it’s because they were brought on by a thought. Therefore, it’s important to stay close to the water which Jesus will be the source of clarity.
In Romans 12:3 we find Paul encouraging believers to daily renew their minds and avoid being influenced by the world. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will”(NIV). The further we get from the shoreline in our thinking, all areas of our lives will be hampered. Each morning I must start by the shore journaling, praying, and reading scripture in a targeted way. I have learned if I am not intentional with my time with Lord, the grime of the sand begins to seep in all areas of my life. For example, I find myself quickly angered and less empathetic to my family and the people I am around. I can easily become judge mental and see this world through another set of lenses that cause me to be blinded by the sandstorms of life.
As you thirst after Jesus you will find your thoughts are more tranquil and resilient because He is at the forefront of your being. Our desire should be that of David, “As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God (Psalms 4:1 NLT)”. According to James 4:8 we find if we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. If today you feel distant from God, go back the shoreline because He is waiting for you.
Dive Deeper
- What do you encounter when you feel furthest from the Lord?
- Explain the importance of staying close to the water, in other words “Jesus.”
- What do you think it means to have a delicate dance with the wave?