December 13, 2019

December 13
Running with Jesus

Acts 27:3 "And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself."

      Paul was placed in a ship to get to Rome when he appealed for Caesar to hear his case.  During his travel he was allowed to get off the boat and go to his friend’s house to refresh himself! Refresh means to give new strength or give energy to. After two years in prison I am sure going ashore to have a bath and shave was a real luxury.  Isn't it amazing how God would do these things for Paul? Paul almost persuaded Agrippa to believe and now his guard was close to Paul gaining favor enough for him to let him go ashore. I don't know which would have refreshed Paul the most, his guard letting him go or the shower! I guess both! The shower physically, but spiritually seeing God at work through unbelievers. Paul was on mission for God and He would give him refreshing by little things (or should I say BIG things!) in order to endure the tough times that came his way. Paul was liked by unbelievers!
      The Word is where we can go and refresh ourselves. I know I can feel dry, dirty, and thirsty, spiritually and I can spend time in the Word and leave saturated, clean and satisfied (refreshed). I can continue to be about my Father's business. So if you are feeling low, distant from God, worn out from doing life, I think it is time for you to spend some time washing in the water of His Word! Get refreshed and you will have strength to continue your journey!
               

Father, I pray for that one who is dried up today. Let them know You are the river of life that is ready and waiting to refresh them!

(Spend some time reading Psalm 1 today, my favorite refreshing hole.)
 

Tomorrow: Contrary winds!

Judy Hollaway

Originally penned 2015