Sand Dollars

I’ve never found a sand dollar. Then again, I’ve never put much effort into looking for them. I’ve seen sand dollars that others have discovered—so I know they exist. Those who have found them say that one has to know where to look and when to look. When I walk on a beach, I walk on the dry sand where I find a lot of broken sea shells. I’ve been told that sand dollars are found at low tide on certain gently sloping beaches. You have to walk slowly, right at the edge—your feet can’t be on the dry sand, but partially immersed in the water. As soon as each wave recedes, search carefully and you may find the flat, circular outline of a sand dollar.

Sometimes, faith can be as elusive as a sand dollar. Discovering your faith requires intentional seeking. It isn’t something we stumble upon while strolling casually over dry sand. Those of us who are reluctant to get our feet wet might find a lot of broken sea shells (which are as common as broken churches). You have to search carefully—but your timing, location, and some divine guidance are all essential too.

“This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” (John 6:65 NIV)

Faith is God-enabled. It is not something that we can will-power our way into. We can't just decide to study, pray, and try really hard to find faith. God reveals Himself to anyone who seeks sincerely—so it's not exclusive to any chosen group. However, those who have found faith can share their experience--which may enable others to discover their own faith.