I recently had the opportunity to enjoy a walk along an ocean beach with my niece, nephew, and their dog. This beach was fairly remote and mostly deserted so flotsam and jetsam that had washed ashore remained untouched. We had fun examining the various items strewn along the waterline.

While the kids and I enjoyed looking at colorful shells and sparkling rocks, the dog thrilled to discover dead fish, dead crabs, even dead birds or parts thereof. Anything dead seemed to be a magnificent find. She would sniff it, roll in it, and taste it before we could stop her and pull her off her treasure.

Of course, the dog got sick later. None of those “treasures” was as good as she seemed to think. The kids and I knew better than to play around with the rotting flesh in the debris. But the intriguing scents beguiled the dog.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good. How happy is the person who takes refuge in him!” (Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭8‬, ‭CSB‬‬)

There are many things in the world that beguile people too. Maybe not a rotting fish in the sand, but we are enticed by bright lights, loud music, and fawning crowds. We are drawn in by get-rich-quick schemes and promises made by politicians. We trust in corporations because of their size and celebrities because of their fame. We rely on social media followers and influencers for support and guidance.

Many of the things that seem so valuable in our broken world are illusions, tricks, and traps. When we consume them, we just find ourselves hungrier.

God is true food for His children. He provides real nourishment of love, wisdom, and beauty. His truth is actually true, and His offer is actually free.

Dear God, thank you for the truth you offer, free of charge. Forgive me for the times when I am distracted by things in the world that are contrary to your ways. Remind me to come to you daily for true nourishment for my hungry soul.