Day 18: Jesus, You Refresh My Soul

Today I spent time in Psalm 63 and thought about the wilderness times in our lives. Those dry times where our hearts are weary and parched are a reality. But they can be some of the most precious times we ever experience with our Lord. I love the words of Hosea 2:14 where God is speaking and He says, “I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her there.” Do you not LOVE that verse!! I do. As a matter of fact, a friend gave that verse to me about 12 years ago when we moved here to the desert. I was so devastated to move away from San Diego and found myself in the wilderness experience. I took the verse and placed it on my desk where I could look at it every day. It still sits there today reminding me that God will tenderly speak to me in the wilderness times of my life.

In Acts 3:19 I see that “times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord.” Jesus is my refreshment. He promised in John 7:37-39 “Anyone who is thirsty may come to Me! Anyone who believes in Me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” He was speaking of the work of the Holy Spirit in us. I am reminded again today of the constant flowing river of the Holy Spirit within. Jesus pours out the living water of the Spirit, constantly refreshing my heart and soul, day by day and moment by moment. And I find myself refreshed and ready to launch into the day.

I loved the promises I read today of refreshment in the wilderness. Today I am feasting on these promises from His Word and I am refreshed indeed!

His unfailing love is better than life itself (Psalm 63:3).
He satisfies me more than the richest feast (Psalm 63:5).
He is my helper and I can sing for joy in the shadow of His wings (Psalm 63:7).
He holds me securely with His strong right hand (Psalm 63:8).
He leads me through the wilderness (Psalm 136:16).
In the wilderness I experience gladness, growth, the presence of the Lord, God’s glory and splendor, gushing springs, watering streams, satisfaction, flourishing, and holiness (Isaiah 35:7-9).
In the wilderness the Lord answers me, opens up rivers for me, gives fountains of water, and works a miracle (Isaiah 41:17-20).
The Lord will guide me continually, gives me water when I am dry, restores my strength, makes me a well-watered garden, and makes me like an ever flowing spring (Isaiah 58:11).
He speaks tenderly to me in the desert (Hosea 2:14).

My Response: Lord Jesus, I am refreshed in Your presence. I love drinking long and deeply of those rivers of living water You pour into my soul through the indwelling and empowering Holy Spirit. Fill me anew with the Holy Spirit, giving me strength and power for another day with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.