 How many times do we feel down in the dumps and think, “Well, I am in the valley.” I have even heard people say, “You can’t always live on the mountain top.” Just like I think we look at mountaintops through rose colored glasses, I think valleys get a bad rap. If we equate our high moments with mountain tops, our low moments get associated with the valleys. Actual physical valleys are beautiful. Many have a river or body of water. The soil is fertile and the vegetation lush. Just the same we need to look at our spiritual valleys through God’s unique perspective.
As the valleys are they spread forth, as gardens by the river's side, as the trees of lign aloes which the LORD hath planted, [and] as cedar trees beside the waters. - Numbers 24:6 KJV
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 I have two happy places, the beach or the mountains. Because I live close enough to the beach to enjoy it regularly, the mountains have become our favorite place to vacation. The beach is my regular recharge, while the mountains are my escape. I love to sit on the balcony of where we stay and watch the mountains as I drink my coffee. Something about it grounds me and brings me peace.
The Bible frequently mentions mountains. There are 130 verses in the King James Version Bible that mention the word mountain. Many sermons have been preached concerning mountaintop experiences. Personally I feel we see the mountaintop through rose colored glasses. Commonly we see it as times of victory and triumph, whereas the valley represents our low points in life.  The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. - Matthew 13:1 KJV
There is something about the beach that is good for my soul. Now I am not talking about beaches like most people think about. I live in Florida but not “that” Florida. We live in the area that is referred to as The Forgotten Coast. If you don’t want tourist traps or crowds, this area is where you go. Sometimes I can take my kids to the beach and there may be only two or three other families. Last year I was unable to go to the beach due to health issues. Since God is restoring my health, I have decided to go every chance I can. Recently my husband and I took our date night to the coast. We ate dinner by the water and walked the beach as the sun set. The salty breeze was blowing. The waves were crashing against the shore. The sand was squishing between my toes. In these moments it felt like all the world was brought back to the basics. The earth beneath my feet, wind blowing in my face and the sound of water in my ears. I was reminded of my foundation. |
