Sunburnt + A Reminder to Follow Recommendations
There’s a reason they recommend wearing sunscreen. There’s a reason they also recommend reapplying after an hour or so in the sun. And to use it liberally.
The alternative is awful.
I sat outside on a hot, July day. The sun was beating down and I neglected to follow an important recommendation. I thought I knew best and the kiddie pool I had purchased was very comfortable for a peaceful afternoon float after a long week.
Hey-I had spent many summers as a lifeguard. I don’t remember putting on much sunscreen. All my trips to the beach and living in Florida were more of the same. No sunscreen.
I didn’t think I needed it.
I learned the hard way. I should have been smarter. Several days of painful to the touch skin, reminded me of the importance of sunscreen.
My whole problem was that I thought I was fine without it. I didn’t need it. I could get by on my own.
It was a huge pill to swallow when I cried each time I took a shower for a week. I was greatly humbled. And severely thankful for the calming aloe gel that I lathered on each section of burnt skin multiple times a day.
How often do I continue trying to do life on my own? Thinking I always know the best and not bringing my needs and concerns to the only God who knows and has planned all of the best for me? I’m sad to admit all of the times I have failed to thank Him for providing for me and always protecting me.
I was reminded that we have been gifted with wisdom meant to protect us. God didn’t mean for us to do life on our own. Trying to figure things out or getting by with our own knowledge. I don’t know about you, but I need God’s wisdom from the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me in all areas of my life. Even reminding me to apply sunscreen when I think I know best.
James 3:13-18 CSB
Who among you is wise and understanding? By his good conduct, he should show that his works are done in the gentleness that comes from wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast and deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there is disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without pretense. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.
