Riding the Waves

Hey there, I am so glad you could join us for today's edition of Our Daily Bread. Today's devotion was written by So Chi Dixon and she titled it Riding the Waves. As my husband strolled down the rocky beach taking photos of the Hawaiian horizon, I sat on a large rock fretting over another medical setback.

Though my problems would be waiting for me when I returned home, I needed peace in that moment. I stared at the incoming waves crashing against the black jagged rocks. A dark shadow in the curve of the wave caught my eye.

Using the zoom option on my camera, I identified the shape as a sea turtle riding the waves peacefully, its flippers spread wide and still. Turning my face into the salty breeze, I smiled. The writer of Psalm 89 wrote that the heavens praise God's wonders. Our incomparable God rules over the surging sea when its waves mount up.

God stills them. He founded the world and all that is in it. He made it all, owns it all, manages it all, and purposes it all for His glory and our enjoyment. Standing on the foundation of our faith, the love of our unchanging Father, we can walk in the light of His presence. God remains mighty in power and merciful in His dealings with us. We can rejoice in His name all day long. No matter what obstacles we face or how many setbacks we have to endure, God holds us as the waves rise and fall.

Today's Our Daily Bread devotional scripture reading is from Psalm 89 verses 5 through 17. The heavens praise your wonders, Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones. For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord? Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings? In the counsel of the holy ones, God is greatly feared. He is more awesome than all who surround Him.

Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you. You rule over the surging sea.

When its waves mount up, you still them. You crushed Rahab like one of the slain. With your strong arm, you scattered your enemies. The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth. You founded the world and all that is in it.

You created the north and the south. Tabor and Herman sing for joy at your name. Your arm is endowed with power. Your hand is strong, your right hand exalted. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.

Love and faithfulness go before you. Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long.

They celebrate your righteousness, for you are their glory and strength, and by your favor, you exalt our horn. Let's pray. Father, we face so many challenges in our lives that can shake our faith in you.

Whether it's our health or finances or maybe it's relational, when it appears life is spinning out of control, it is so easy to think you have lost control. But Lord, when we are faced with trying times, we pray that you would strengthen our faith. Thank you for empowering us to ride the waves of life with courageous faith, anchored in your proven faithfulness. Thank you, Lord. It's in Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Today's encouragement was provided by Our Daily Bread Ministries.