Surrounded by Paradise!

The ocean breeze blew against me causing my stiffened shoulders to relax and nestle in against my reclining beach chair. The sand, the sun, and ocean view helped remind me of God's glory and power! I breathed in a few deep breaths of paradise. Haaaaahhhhhhh.

Whew. I didn't realize how busy life had become. OK. Confession time. Honestly, I have to admit, though God speaks every day, sometimes I forget to listen. I try to be intentional, but sometimes cell phones, computers and, yes, even ministry can distract me from spending time in God's presence.

Thus, the reason for my recent vacation.

As I sat silently waiting, listening and hoping to hear God speak, I began to whisper: "Lord, thank You for this time of rest. Thank Your for Your love. Thank You for Your presence. I love you!"

The ocean breeze intensified at the precise moment I sensed God whisper back, "I love you." The intensity of the wind around me continued to grow as God showered me with His thoughts and affection.

WHEW! Is it ever good to spend time in HIS presence.

Psalm 29:2-4 says, "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic." (NIV)

As I surveyed the vastness of the ocean, God quickly reminded me that the scenery I was soaking in was readily available in my backyard.

You see, I live in paradise. I am surrounded by palm trees and sandy beaches so tropical serenity resides in my back yard...and yet...because of the cares of the world I often miss it. My long to-do lists distract me from enjoying the beauty of God's creation.

I stare at computer screens, worry about what ifs, and spend a lot of time figuring out what's next...and...in the process...forget to enjoy the beautiful life God surrounds me with every day.

How about you? Need replenished? Ever find yourself soooooo inundated with details and concerns that you forget to enjoy the beautiful life all around you?

C'mon, be honest! After all, we all get distracted (at times) by the cares of life, so today's challenge is to connect with God. How? Here are a few ideas:

• UNPLUG from technology for a little while. Hold off from TV, CELL PHONES, and social media and instead, ask God to speak.
• For a few moments, sit silently and listen for His voice.
• Seek Him in His Word. Ask Him to saturate you with His presence and replenish your soul.
• Praise Him for the gifts He's given you. Food for your sustenance. Clothing for your body. The warmth of friends. The gift of your family. A roof over your head. Sunshine. Stars. THE VERY BREATH you just breathed.

Friend, God has GREAT plans for your life.

He created you on purpose, for a purpose!

His love for you supersedes the greatest heights and deepest depths of the universe...

Today, I'm praying God replenishes your soul as He did mine!