Being an ambivert means I get to be both equally social and equally content spending time by myself. One of my favorite ways to be with just me is taking adventures to new places, exploring, and finding hidden gems where I can just rest in the quietness with God.
A while back I was exploring some coastal areas that I hadn’t been to before, and found Fred Howard Park near Tarpon Springs, FL. It was early morning and the soft sound of crashing waves and maybe 3 people on the entire stretch of white sands was just what I needed for my self-care day. [These are so important, by the way. Take them. And take them often.] I found a quiet spot, set up my tripod, and the day began.
The Quietness with God
“Be still, and know that I am God” – Psalm 46:10
I love the quiet moments with Jesus. Where no one is around to speak louder than Him. The world around me slows down and all the noises seem to disappear. He quiets my heart as I pay attention to His presence. I find clarity and wholeness in these moments. And what He wants more than anything, more than your service or your mission work or your knowledge of His Word (don’t get me wrong, those are all integral and vital parts of our lives as Christians), is YOUR HEART. He wants YOU.
Your devotion and worship and TIME. God doesn’t just want to be a part of your life. He wants to be the very air you breathe. He wants to be your WHOLE life. Because let’s face it… If we claim to love God but only give Him a percentage of ourselves, what does that say about how much we understand what was done on the cross?
That would be like being present for the crucifixion, and leaving half way through His death. God doesn’t want a part. He wants the whole you.
Quiet time allows us to give Him all of us. The all of us without all the trappings of this world that leave us hindered and heavy. Quiet time is our way of being present. Being before a Holy God and letting Him speak to us, without having to worry about what the rest of the world has to say too.
Fred Howard has so many hideaways, where you can explore and watch the calming waves amongst the faint skyline of the city. I climbed a few big boulders to get to these hidden gems, but it was WELL worth it.
More than Just Beach
After I had explored most of the coast line, I decided to check out the vendors, who were the sweetest. You can rent chairs and umbrellas (yes! less to pack!), and they serve small snacks and drinks in different food trucks that stop by. But if you are really looking to do something adventurous or more active, check out Wheel Fun Rentals for kayaks, biking carts and more.
The owners were great, and somehow I convinced them to be my personal photographers for the day. We had a “wheely” fun time! Thanks guys!
Wheel Fun Rentals Instagram
If you are looking to take a day to relax, read a book, pack a picnic lunch, and find all the cool things all from the comfort of your very own kayak, then Fred Howard is THE place to do it.
Take some time to yourself, friends. Spend it with Jesus. You’ll be glad you did.
Love, Grayson: The Blog 