Refreshed in His Strength

Wouldn’t you just love to have the time to sit in a tub filled with the most luxurious, fragrant bubble bath or linger in the shower, in a room lit with candles ~ slowly sip on a cup of tea or coffee while sitting outside with a gentle breeze blowing on your face (of course having a piece or two of oh, so yummy chocolate) ~ read a good Christian novel ~ plant some pretty flowers in your yard; in other words, just have some time for yourself?

Need some refreshment? Feel like you can’t take another step or you’ll collapse? That if someone else calls your name or asks you to do one more thing, whether it’s an adult or a child, you’re going to scream???? Don’t think you’re alone, as women, we’ve all felt like this. But the reality of lingering in a tub or even picking up a book, much less reading it, is only a dream because of the “season of life” you’re in. So, how do we cope? We go to the only ONE whose words can refresh and strengthen us ~ Jesus. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

Strength for the weary:

• Read Isaiah 40:28-31
• Praise Him that He is your strength
• Focus on His strength today. Every time you get tired, ask Him to refresh you. Remember, He doesn’t care nor count how many times you ask. It’s in the asking that we take the focus off ourselves and on to Him, the only source of true strength.
  

“You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to His people. Praise be to God!” Psalm 68:35

Stillness ~ a lost art . . .

Stillness seems to be a lost art in our society today, even as believers. But it doesn't have to be. NO. It's a choice. God tells us in His Word to "Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10) Being still before the Lord simply means to STOP what you're doing and give Him your undivided attention. It's in those times of stillness that He reminds us of who He is. That He is our Redeemer, sufficient, strong, merciful, full of grace, able to meet all our needs, etc.

When was the last time you sat still before the Lord ~ really still? When was the last time you sat in silence ~ total silence, waiting to hear His voice? When was the last time you gave Him your undivided attention?

Stillness ~ take it back . . .

• Begin today ~ find a place where you can get alone with God. Turn off the music, the radio, the TV.


• Open up your Bible and read Psalm 23. Let your eyes gaze on your Shepherd. Don't just give Him a casual glance. Enjoy the stillness! Stay as long as you can in His presence.


• Spend some time praising and thanking Him for His Word that promises to refresh, restore, guide, remove our fears and fill us full to overflowing with His goodness and love.

Blessing

He has promised to fill us with JOY when we spend time with Him and He always keeps His promises.

You will fill me with JOY in your presence.

Psalm 16:11