The Ocean
  Even though the ocean is limited in its breadth and scope, it appears limitless.  According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), water covers 71% of the earth.  When standing on the boulders on the Oregon coast (USA) and looking out to sea, water stretches to the horizon and beyond.  It seems to be never-ending and full of life as the tide comes in and goes out. 

High Tide
  The ocean crashes in, exploding on the rocks and boulders, splashing high into the air.  The roar of the water is constant and powerful.  High tide presents a picture of God’s power and might as it covers the rocks and beach with foamy water.  It seems the ocean cannot contain the power of high tide.  This is one picture of what God makes available to us every day to give us a full life.  Sometimes, we need to experience the crashing waves of God’s might and power in our lives.  God promises us His power and shows us who He is in the midst of the storm. 

(NIV) 1 Chronicles 29:11a, 12b-13 “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor…In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”
  It is easy to see God at work during the high tide of our emotions and also His power at work in us.  The joy cannot be contained as we lift our voices high to praise God for the overflow of power and majesty He alone pours into us. 

Low Tide
  Low tide is in contrast to high tide.  Low tide is the still, small voice of the ocean.  The waves are minimal at its lowest point and sometimes non-existent.  The water is like glass as it reflects the color of the sky and reveals what lays below.  The peace of quiet waters sits in wait for us to see the beauty in the depths of the water. 
(NIV) Isaiah 26:12 “Lord, you establish peace for us…” 

  God is there, all the time, in the peaceful waters.  We need to recognize the power of His presence in the quiet times of life…that God continues to give us life to the full even then.  Our response to God’s peace may be different from the response to His power, but it is still His Peace, available to supply what we need for an abundant life. 

  High tide or low tide – for the follower of Christ, He is with you…at all times, the infinite gift of God for you!