It’s a pleasantly warm, beautiful, sun-drenched spring morning along the Gulf Coast beach of Florida. A gentle sea breeze accompanies the teal surf, brushing the white sands of the shore. A grandfather is building sand castles and forming water moats with his three-year-old grandson as the tide comes in, filling the perimeter of the man’s handiwork. Grandson is grinning ear to ear, laughing, giggling, running, jumping, and pouring small buckets of water onto the sand fortress, causing major wreckage, much to his delight. The memory of this delightful experience will be timeless for the man, and the joy it brings will be heartfelt and lasting. 

Unfortunately, every day is not filled with such pleasantness. Challenges and difficulties are a fact of life, but they can be the stimulant for a follower of Christ to draw closer to His strength, love, and empowering Holy Spirit. True and lasting joy is not determined by circumstances, status, or wealth. God’s Presence produces our deepest delight and satisfaction. Every moment is precious if we keep our focus on Jesus. His unfailing love always abides deep within our spirit, never departing. There is so much of life to appreciate as we abide in the Lord’s strength.