Each summer comes with old memories and moments of new adventures. During my time at the beach, the memories and moments collide. It’s our family’s tradition to pick a day to go to the ocean’s shore and wait for the sun to rise. You may or may not have a summer tradition, but you may have a desire on your heart today.

And yet, what we see around us or what we feel within us is only part of the story.

Trudging through the sand to the shore, I notice a few other early risers. Some cast their fishing lines. Surfers prepare to ride their first wave. But my family waits for the first glimpse of what turns night to day, cool to hot, and our sleepy thoughts toward wonder.

Psalm 19 puts it this way.

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat” (Psalms 19:1-6 NLT).

Although seeing the sun is quite familiar, the first glance of its radiant edges never disappoints. And yet, I recall past summers when cloudy skies seemed to cancel our view of the great ball of fire. Of course, the sun was still there. The light of its rays may have been absorbed by the clouds, but its power never lessens. Then, sooner or later, the clouds give way to the greater light.

The whole scene holds tons of encouragement for you and me. No matter how our days or nights appear, God is always there.

As I consider what brings joy to my soul this summer, moments at the beach make my list. And yet, in life, when clouds linger, joy may not appear at first. But a few faith-filled moments (or days) later, something amazing happens. I sense grace grip me. Then, I know my challenge will give way to my Almighty and always trustworthy God.

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known” (Psalm 19:1-2). 

Imagine that. Without fail, no matter what else fails, God makes Himself known. Is there a way you need to see Him today? Do you need to know He sees you?

Whether you are in a place of waiting or at a point of reflection, I pray you’ll have new levels of joy as you discover something new about God. Thankfully, the psalmist reminds us, “The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat” (Psalms 19:6). And nothing can hide us from the warmth of God’s love. (Romans 8:38-39) May we follow His course for our lives, just like the sun.