God Encounters and Seashells
As you walk the beaches of Bald Head Island, you will be amazed by the many ways to experience God in the seashells you find. If you are into shelling, this will make it more special for you. If not, perhaps it will give you new “God thoughts” as you walk our island beaches. Romans 1:20 reminds us: For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. Therefore, the seashells tell us of God. The following are “thoughts from the seashells.”
Slipper Shells
I always talk with God when I am on the beach. One day, as I was walking on the beach, I told God that having Parkinson’s was hard for me, and I just needed to know that He cared for me and would help me live with this terrible disease. As I was walking and talking, I looked down and saw not one but a pile of slipper shells. I sensed God‘s presence very strongly at that moment. I felt Him saying, “I know what it is like to walk in your shoes (slippers), and I will walk every day and every step with you.” Since that day nine years ago, every time I go to the beach I only have to take two or three steps before I find a slipper or two. I only make it through the day because I know that God is walking with me every step, every day. – Carol Sauder
Olive Shell
I always look for slippers for Carol because she says that is how she knows God loves her. And I love olive shells because they say, "I love you" to me! You know, Olive You! – Mimi Galef
Tiger's Eye or Shark's Eye
I love the beach and enjoy shelling. I'm especially fond of what I call a "Tiger's Eye.” Some may call them "Shark's Eye." We have been going through a testing time; and as I walked the beach with our daughter and granddaughter, I was praying that the Lord would let me know He was still in control. Within three steps, I found the largest "Tiger's Eye" I have ever found. Thank you, Lord. My husband and I are still waiting, but I know the answer to our issue will come in the Lord's time. The eye reminds me that God is El Roi -- the God who sees. He is in control and He is the Sovereign One. Psalm 46:1-2 says: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear..." God's desire is that we walk the journey of life with Him by our side. Many times He carries us!!! We have so much for which to be grateful. Praise the Lord! What a Savior! – Susan Himes
Jingle Shells
My favorite, the Atlantic Jingle is such a parallel to the complexity of God's master creation -- man. Like the Jingle, with its varied colors and translucency, man has such variety of personalities and transparency that he defies full comprehension by his fellows. Only God fully knows each man. – Judy Knott
Calico Scallop Shell
I am a Calico Scallop collector. They come in so many different colors. The colors are so vivid that each one reminds me that all of God's creations come in many shapes and colors, each having something different to offer. – Merry Bradley
Angel's Wings
Years ago after a hurricane I found a set of angel wings, still attached together, on the beach. I was in awe -- that mighty storm, yet the shell was undamaged. Each year at Christmas, I attach the shell to my wreath to remind me that we often "attend to angels, unaware" and no matter how mighty the storm, nor what kind of storm might come, God is with us. – Jane Johnson
