It’s no secret, summertime is prime time for outdoor activities. With sunblock slathered on and a glass of lemonade in my hand, I’m ready! But whether we choose a quiet walk alone or walk around a tourist site with others, gathering under the sun can remind us of a sacred promise from God.

Give thanks to him who made the heavenly lights— His faithful love endures forever. the sun to rule the day, His faithful love endures forever. (Psalms 136:7‭-‬8 NLT)

But from meetups at a café to cookouts in a backyard, how will our time with others show we’ve spent time with the faithful God? Here are three ways we can let His presence shine through.

Be present. It requires us to focus on what matters in the moment. The people around us or a situation before us deserves our attention. But if your mind tends to wander like mine, being present can be a challenge. It’s difficult to enjoy the moment while thinking about a moment weeks away.

However, not being present comes with a cost. We can miss what God is doing right now, if we’re preoccupied with how He’ll move next.

It’s like being on an island getaway this summer while dreading raking leaves in the fall.

Be patient. As we wonder when a problem will end, waiting can lead to frustration. But a delay in what we want to improve can lead us to a deeper dependence on God. As we seek Him, we can trust His process for what needs to happen in us and around us. (Hebrews 10:23)

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled (Romans 15:4 NLT).

Be at peace. One of my favorite summer activities is to walk along the beach. The rhythmic sound of the waves wraps me with tranquility. And yet, many of my summer days are spent in a different outdoor setting or indoors.

However, God’s faithful love endures forever — wherever and however we spend our summer. When waves of His truth wash over me, His peace abides.

Then every concern pressing upon my heart becomes a prayer of trusting the heart of God. Consider your biggest concern. Not only does “the sun rule the day,” God wants His peace to rule in our hearts.

“And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful” (Colossians 3:15 NLT).

This summer, as you gather with your thoughts or gather with others, here are 5 activities to consider:

• Take a 10-minute walk and focus on what you’re grateful for.
• Meditate on a Scripture at sunset or sunrise.
• Discover the wonders of a small town near you.
• Save your favorite books for indoor rainy summer days.
• Have brunch at the park, with your favorite people.

As I gather under the sun, I’m grateful. I’m hopeful because the One who made the heavenly lights made me. He made you too, friend. Whether we are outdoors or indoors, may we grow ever confident in this truth: His faithful love endures forever.