Refreshing

In the Oxford Dictionary of English, the word “Refresh” is described as – to give new strength or energy to; reinvigorate.

In Exodus 31:17, the Lord told Moses with regards to the Sabbath; “it is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.” This verse tells us that the Lord Himself rested and was refreshed on the seventh day. In Hebrew, the word ‘refreshed’ means to breathe freely or recover.

Under the New Covenant, our Lord and Friend, Jesus Christ is our Rest, our Sabbath. Hebrews 4:9-10 says “there remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself ceased from his works as God did from His.”

I am reminded again of a favorite Scripture from Matthew 11:28-30. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give your rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Regardless of where our weariness is coming from, whether it be spirit, soul or body weariness, Holy Spirit is with us to enlighten and lead us with wisdom beside still waters and in green pastures, that restore and refresh us.

We pray that in the weeks ahead, you will find our Lord and Friend leading you into His refreshing day by day. He waters us moment by moment. His Presence is ever with us, His unfailing love and mercy filling us with courage, peace and joy.

Shalom.

Kath