“Times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” Peter said (Acts 3:19b).
I wonder: What might those refreshing times look like?
If we think about those moments that restore us physically and emotionally, we’ll find clues to the spiritual refreshment God offers.
For example, do you feel renewed after…
…a good night’s sleep?
Jesus offers rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29-30)–rest that includes insulation against fear and worry.
…a tall, cool glass of water on a hot day?
Jesus offers “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14). He was speaking of an enhanced life–characterized by peace, joy, and his comforting presence. Finally, this enhanced life will turn to ecstasy once we’re transported to heaven.
…a delicious meal?
Just as food satisfies our stomachs, God’s Word satisfies our spirits. The Bible fills us with truths that strengthen and promises that revive.
…a heart-to-heart chat with a friend?
God actually designed us for symbiotic relationship. “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). But the uplift is augmented when we know Jesus and seek his wisdom–his ways–in our interactions.
Then consider the relationship we have with Jesus himself. I can’t imagine living without him, can you? Just a quick reminder that he is in control and has a plan can ease any anxiety. When I affirm he will supply my needs and those of family and friends, I can breathe easier. Knowing he is always with me is great comfort. When I avail myself of these benefits, he does indeed restore my soul (Psalm 23:3a).
…a hot shower?
Nothing is quite as restorative as washing away the grime of the day and allowing the pelting water to ease weary muscles.
Peter spoke clearly and bluntly, “Repent…turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:19a).
Why do we resist repenting–confessing and turning away from those things we know deep down aren’t good for us? We’re like little kids, grungy and itchy from playing in the dirt, and resisting a bath!
But if we do not repent, if our sins are not wiped out, the times of refreshing from the Lord cannot come. Here’s the whole of Acts 3:19, parts A and B together:
“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
I do not want to be tired, thirsty, hungry, lonely, or dirty in my spirit. Not when God’s refreshing grace is always available for renewal, restoration, and replenishment.
* * * * * * * * * *
So here I am, Lord, coming to you with a repentant heart. I don’t want to live in some remote wasteland, removed from your presence! Thank you for your restoration that is complete and your provision of refreshing times that are continual. All day long you replenish my spirit! Even in the night you restore my soul. Your loving kindness and grace are boundless, and my spirit soars with praise!
(Photo credit: http://www.wikimedia.org)
From the Inside Out 
Thank you, I needed restoration today from God and he supplied.
Great news, Angie. I’m so glad! (Of course, he ALWAYS supplies [Philippians 4:19]. It’s just not as quickly as we’d sometimes like!)
The section on a “heart-to-heart chat with a friend” made me think of how refreshing it is to know that all is right with my Lord and I, as well as between my friends and myself. In relationships, I try to choose my words carefully…and if I have the slightest doubt about offending someone by saying the wrong thing…or the right thing in the wrong way, the Holy Spirit convicts me right then and there and I clarify myself. Usually I find that what I said and how I said it wasn’t offensive in the least…but I come away REFRESHED that all is well between us. I feel convicted that our relationship with Christ should be free from anxiety, honest, open, and willing to ask forgiveness…and that this should be mirrored in our relationships with our friends and acquaintances. Thanks for reminding me of the word ‘REFRESHING’. It is such a clean, crisp, lovely word.
Indeed, when relationships are characterized by peace, honesty, openness, and forgiveness, our spirits ARE refreshed. And that’s no more true than in our relationship with Jesus. The convictions of the Holy Spirit help us maintain a refreshed state, augmenting our joy.
Thank you, Cheri, for the added insight! ‘So appreciate your thoughtful comments.