Happy Shark Week – Lessons From the Beach

(4th in the 4 part series) – Saturday Morning Devotional

Happy Shark Week

Happy Shark Week! From the time I was a young girl until now, I have always had a fascination with sharks. I absolutely love them! When I was in 6th grade, my school’s mascot was the Sharks, and not long after that, the movie Jaws came to the theaters. I was all about Shark Week before it was ever a thing!

I must have passed that along to my son, because he had the same fascination – and even now, his little daughter likes them as well. On one of our family vacations, Jacob and I opted to “swim with the sharks.” Jay and Shea watched from the bridge and took pictures. We actually got to touch them while we were in the water. However, they weren’t aggressive sharks.

Back in 2016, Shea and I took an early morning walk on the beach and came upon a shark that was trying to wash up on the beach. It was not alive, and it was down by the fishing pier, but it was close enough to be a reminder that we were in it’s habitat, not ours.

My Recent Shark Week

This year I had a different “shark” experience. Shortly after getting out to the beach one morning, we noticed almost everyone walking along the water’s edge. Very few people were in the water, and most of the others were getting out quickly.

Close to the shoreline, right in the shallow area, a 5 ft. shark was swimming through like he owned the place – actually, he did own it! Most of us out there had a healthy respect for the creature and let him have his space – all except one guy.

Seeing this guy got me to thinking – So many times we may have a little bit of arrogance about us when it comes to sin, thinking nothing will happen to us.

“So whoever thinks he stands must be careful not to fall.”
I Cor. 10:12

I am really glad we did not see a Shark Week tragedy happen that day, especially since it could have been avoided. The same is true in our spiritual lives. It is really important not to put yourself in tempting situations; turn to the Lord instead.

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Mark 14:38

“Therefore, submit to God, Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
James 4:7

Just like sharks pretty much rule the oceans, Satan has some authority in the world (for a time). If you ever watch any of the Shark Week TV shows, you will see shark attacks. The same thing happens in the world.

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
I Peter 5:8

On a Side Note

There were two other older guys further out in the water, beyond where the shark was swimming. By the time they heard everyone on the shore trying to warn them, they took off running in the water as fast as they could to get out of danger. They were on the road for a direct encounter with the shark! Jay started yelling really loudly and got their attention. From his directions, they turned to avoid that path and then quickly left the water. It is always good to have people around who can see the situation from the outside and help you navigate the waters.

Lessons From Shark Week

• Don’t think you are above anything.
• Know that you can stand up to temptation in the Lord’s strength.
• Don’t dabble with sin or put yourself in tempting situations.
• Be alert and flee from the enemy.
• Trust wise God-fearing people who can lead you out of treacherous water to safety.

Quotes in Honor of Shark Week

Whether you think sharks are magnificent creatures like I do or not, you can probably find something fascinating about them on TV this week. Remember the lessons, and have a Happy Shark Week!

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Related Posts

Tips and Ideas for a Great Beach Vacation

Lessons from the Beach – Broken but Beautiful (1st in the Series)

Why Great White Sharks Are The Kings of the Ocean

Until next week…

Have a Grace & Joy-Filled Day!

Susan

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“When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy.” Psalms 94:19