“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over [with no space left for more]. For with the standard of measurement you use [when you do good to others], it will be measured to you in return.”

Luke 6:38 AMP

Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina has so many beautiful shells that wash up, making it a treasure trove for a collector like me.

This summer, I’ve decided to make shell wind chimes. So on a recent trip, I began my search for large shells with natural holes at the top. There were many, many shells that were exactly what I was looking for.

But there were also many that were perfect - no holes. I’d pick these up and even though they were beautiful in their perfection, I’d toss them back on the soft sand thinking, “Someone else might need that exact one for a project.“

In reflection, these shells made me consider how perfectly God has taken care of me. And how often I struggle with wanting what I need, plus a lot more.

There are certainly plenty of seashells on the beach for everyone, but here’s the point I felt God asking me to consider: what are my real needs and do I put faith in myself and my ability to pile up extra? Or do I confidently rely on God to provide exactly what I need?

When we trust God to provide for us, we can easily share our abundance.

Jesus says in the Sermon on the Mount:

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
Matthew 5:42 NIV

We live in a world that champions self-reliance through accumulating more and more, never having enough. But God asks us to be satisfied with what He’s given us and to be trustworthy stewards of His good gifts. And He invites us to live a life of sharing with others.

God used the shells on the beach that day to remind me of this essential lesson: I can depend on Him to provide all that I need. My task is to hold it gratefully with an open hand and open heart.

Those who are righteous will be long remembered.
They do not fear bad news;
    they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.
They are confident and fearless
    and can face their foes triumphantly.
They share freely and give generously to those in need.
    Their good deeds will be remembered forever.
    They will have influence and honor.

Psalm 112:6-9 NLT

Thank you, Lord.

Today is a GOOD day!

Natalie

Shells and Provision

The Light

Summer Rest