Discoveries
I recall as a boy, combing the shores of the Bay with my dad and looking for flounder. Just my dad and me, under the stars, guided by the bright glow of a Coleman lantern. It’s hard to describe the thrill I had when I’d happen upon the perfect seashell, pearly white from years of salt and surf pounding its hard exterior. To my delight, the gem glistened in the light, awaiting my eager grasp.
I know few joys like the joy of sudden discovery. Instantly forgotten is the pain and expense of the search, the inconveniences, the hours, the sacrifices. Bathed in the ecstasy of discovery, time stands still. Nothing else seems half so important. Lost in the thrill of the moment, we relish the inexpressible finding— like a little child wading knee-deep in the salt water of a bay, finding a prized seashell.
Such discoveries through life have many faces . . .
the answer to a lengthy conflict
insight into your own makeup
understanding the “why” behind a fear
just the right expression to describe a feeling
finding relief from needless guilt
Solomon talks about the greatest discovery of all. His words still give me pause:
My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. . . .Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God.
4-5,Proverbs 2:1-2
Talk about a discovery! Hidden in the Scriptures are priceless words of wisdom, ensconced in ancient expressions, waiting to be discovered. Silent. Hard to find. Easy to miss if you’re in a hurry. But they are there, nevertheless, holding eternal value. God’s Word, like a vast ocean of sand waiting to yield its transforming treasures.
Are you looking? Are you expecting to find something valuable? Wade in!
This is an excerpt from Good Morning Lord... Can We Talk? by Charles Swindoll, available at OMF Lit Bookshops, shop.omflit.com, Shopee, and Lazada for P365.
Timeless Bible wisdom from renowned pastor and teacher, Charles R. Swindoll.
Do you long for daily encouragement and inspiration? Do you wish your quiet times were filled with power and purpose? Discover the joy and ease of meeting with God each day in a meaningful way with this year-long devotional by one of the world’s premiere Bible teachers. Filled with daily insights from Charles R. Swindoll, Good Morning, Lord... Can We Talk? will give you a glimpse of the living power of God in your own life—and connect you to the restorative promises God speaks in His Scriptures.