It is definitely summer.  It is also a time when many of us take vacations.

My family has taken many beach vacations over the years.  I may not enjoy sunbathing, but there is something special about the beach.  The sand on your toes, the salty smell in the air, the sound of the waves – there is something special about it.  In fact, the reality of the ocean and its marvels forces me to think on the Creator.  It forces me to think on my place in the creation.

When you look at horizon over an ocean, the sheer size is overwhelming.  It reminds me of just how small I am.  The world is so much bigger than any of us.

At the same time, I realize that I actually matter.  The God who created the oceans also created me.  He created me to know Him.  He calls us the pinnacle of His creation.  It is thrilling to think on that.

I also realize that life keeps going.  The ocean of 500 years ago is still the ocean of today.  Life continues to thrive in its depths.  People continue to marvel at its wonders.  And though my life may seem to be the center of my universe at times, I cannot help but realize that life continued before me and will continue long after me.  It is a humbling thing.

I also realize how precious stillness is.  God’s Word (Psalm 46:10) tells us to stop our fighting or to be still and know that He is God.  The rhythmic beat of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the amazing vista are calming; they lead me to think, to ponder, to put things into perspective.  Stillness forces me to consider the greatness of God.

If you are able to go to the beach this year, enjoy the ocean.  Allow it to remind you of how great God is and how much we need Him.

If you are not able to go to the beach, do something else.  Marvel at the majesty of the hills, the trees, the rivers, the night sky, or whatever catches your eye.  Think about the One who created all of it.  Think about His love for you.  Think about what He has done and will do for you.

We need those moments to stop, be amazed, and worship God.

The following devotional book can help you realize what this can do for you…