THE NEED FOR REFRESHMENT!

 

Thursday, July 15, 2021

 

THE NEED FOR REFRESHMENT!

 

Acts 27:3

3 The following day we landed at Sidon, and Julius treated Paul in a loving way, with much consideration (kindness and care), permitting him to go to his friends [there] and be refreshed and be cared for.

AMP

 

2 Tim 1:16-17

16 The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:

17 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.

KJV

 

           The Greek word for “refresh” in Second Timothy is anapsucho and literally means “to cool off or to relieve.” I picture a weary Paul with a thirst that needs to e quenched and perhaps a need to do laundry! In both cases Paul was a prisoner.

 

           Our modern American language directs our minds to various drinks. Even Coca-Cola claimed to be the pause that refreshes! We seldom venture beyond that narrow definition and when we do we think of the word hospitality.

 

           Soldiers understand the need for refreshment. They would view it as a place off safety where they would not need to be on guard. They could remove some of their weighty equipment and arms. They could enjoy a cool drink and, perhaps, wash their face. It was simple perhaps but well understood.

 

           The element of friendly human interaction is also implied in the case of Paul. He was released on his own recognizance to visit his friends. Those friends would provide him with rest, comfortable accommodations, and fellowship.

 

           Do you know someone today who has worked hard and needs a break? Why not give them a call and offer refreshment – and by so doing refresh yourself.

 

Dear Lord, I ask that you calm the anxiety in those who are perplexed and cool the brow of those that toil. Give them refreshment today. AMEN