A Time of Refreshing…

In our everyday lives, it’s important to find a time of refreshing. We can experience this by coming to church, where we can disconnect from the negativity we face in the world and be reminded of God’s presence. It’s a change of pace, a moment to relax, take a deep breath, and know that we are in the presence of God, diving into scriptures that tell us about Him.

One particular scripture we’ll reflect on today comes from Acts 3:19, which invites us to “repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” This passage reveals three key elements: requirements, benefits, and the source.

A Time of Refreshing

The Requirements

First, the scripture emphasizes the importance of repentance. In Mark 1:15, we’re told, “Repent and believe the gospel,” referring to the good news of Jesus Christ. Repentance is essential, followed by belief in His message of salvation. Additionally, we are called to be converted—changed. As Jesus said in Matthew 18:3, “Unless you are converted and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of God.” Repentance and conversion are the foundation for the blessings that follow.

A Time of Refreshing

The Benefits

The scripture in Acts highlights two major benefits of repentance and conversion: your sins are washed away, and you can expect times of refreshing. When we surrender our lives to God, our sins are forgiven, and in return, God provides moments of spiritual renewal. This refreshing isn’t just a temporary break—it’s an ongoing renewal that we can access when we seek God’s presence.

Many of us have experienced this firsthand. At some point, we accepted Jesus as our Savior, and our sins were washed away. The refreshing that follows can uplift our hearts and provide us with peace in our daily struggles. The world desperately needs to hear that their sins can be washed away and that they too can experience these times of refreshing.

A Time of Refreshing

The Source

The source of these blessings is the presence of the Lord. In God’s presence, we find peace, renewal, and strength. When we take time to enter into His presence, whether through prayer, worship, or reflection, we can experience these refreshing moments. It’s not just something we experience in church, but wherever we are. Whether at home or in a quiet moment of solitude, seeking God’s presence brings transformation.

We can think of this as the way we breathe. Just like the breath of life was given to Adam in the beginning, God’s presence brings life to our spirits. The refreshing breath that we receive from Him is life-giving. The Hebrew and Greek words for “refreshing” also relate to this idea of breath—being able to catch your breath when you’ve been gasping for air or to revive after being underwater. That moment of breathing in life is a true spiritual refreshment.

A Time of Refreshing

Revival and the Need for Fresh Breath

Revival is a theme that speaks deeply to our need for God’s presence. It’s a time when we experience repentance, renewal, and revival, much like how Adam received life through God’s breath. We, too, need that life-giving breath to refresh our spirits. Revival isn’t just a one-time event but a continuous experience of God breathing life into our hearts.

Just as we need physical rest, the world needs a fresh outpouring of God’s spirit. This is why the church, not just here but around the world, longs for revival—a time of refreshing that brings renewal to our hearts and minds. As we experience this revival personally, it draws others to seek the same peace and rest that we have found in God’s presence.

A Time of Refreshing

Offering Rest and Refreshment to the World

As we enter the presence of God, whether at church or in our own homes, we can expect Him to offer us times of refreshing. In Isaiah, the prophet speaks of a place of rest for the weary. God offers this rest to all who are burdened, inviting them to experience peace and comfort in Him. Sadly, many in the world don’t listen, but our role is to continue offering this invitation to others. The world needs rest, peace, and the refreshing that comes from the presence of the Lord.

When we find ourselves overwhelmed by life, we can always turn to God for a time of refreshing. He offers us not just temporary relief but a deep, spiritual rest that revives us.

A Time of Refreshing

True Rest in God’s Presence

As we live in a world full of struggles and challenges, the refreshing breath of God is what we need to carry us through. Just as Jesus breathed life into His disciples, we too can receive the Holy Spirit, strengthening us and giving us the revival we need. Let us remember that, in God’s presence, there is true rest, and it is from Him that we draw the refreshing breath that renews us.