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Friend, before the coffee cools and before the day gathers speed, let's spend a few moments together in the harbor of God's Word. Welcome to this Thursday verse of the day bonus episode of Tales of Faith by the Sea. Today's verse comes from Genesis chapter eight, verse eleven. The dove came to him toward evening, and behold her be in her beak was a flesh freshly picked olive leaf. So Noah knew that the water was abated from the earth. I imagine that Noah watched the horizon every day. For months all he could see was water. The storm had passed, the rain had stopped, yet there was still no dry land. Then one evening a small dove returned, not empty. In its beak was a single olive leaf. To someone else it might have seemed insignificant. To Noah, it was a message from God. The flood would not last forever. Dry ground was coming. Hope was alive. Isn't it remarkable how often God encourages us through small things? A timely phone call from a friend, a verse of scripture that seems written for the for the very day that one is living, a prayer quietly answered, an unexpected opportunity, a burden that suddenly feels lighter than it did yesterday. These moments seem ordinary to the world. But to the child of God, they are often olive leaves, gentle reminders that the Lord is still working even when we cannot yet see the whole shoreline. Sometimes we ask God for dramatic signs. Instead, he gives us quiet assurances. Enough grace for today, enough hope for tomorrow, enough evidence to keep trusting him. The olive leaf did not mean Noah's journey was over, but it did mean that God was faithfully bringing him through it. The same God still sends reminders of his faithfulness to his people. We simply need eyes willing to recognize them. Perhaps today you have been wondering if your season of waiting will ever end. Look carefully. God often places little reminders of his faithfulness along the journey, an encouraging word, a providential blessing, a door beginning to open. Do not overlook the olive leaves God places in your path. They are quite quiet reminders that He has not forgotten you, and the one who began his good work will be faithful to complete it. Until next time, may your heart be encouraged by God's quiet reminders, your faith be strengthened by his promises, and your eyes remain open to the countless ways He reveals His faithfulness each day. This is Nathan Hampton of the Enan Church of Christ, just outside of Dothan, Alabama. If you are in the area, it would be an honor to have you attend, and it would be great to have a chance to get to know you. Until next time, safe sailing, my friends, and goodbye.