I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint. – (Jeremiah 31:25, NIV)
I will give rest and strength to those who are weak and tired. – (Jeremiah 31:25, ERV)
I’ll refresh tired bodies; I’ll restore tired souls. – (Jeremiah 31:25, MSG)
This extended weekend away has done exactly what God promised Jeremiah, it has refreshed my weariness and restored the spaces within me that were just plain tired. Though my body still wakes at the usual early hour, I have not jumped right out of bed to get to task. I have moved at a leisurely pace, meandering to the coffee pot beside my bed, prior to taking my time to spend time in His word and reflect. Much of our time has been spent walking and exploring all over the city, and for me, there is much refreshment in movement. Being able to explore in the cool, late fall air, as we take in the sights and sounds of a city I have seldom seen, is the very sort of adventure to rejuvenate my heart and mind. Though I miss my husband and boys, it is a joy to escape and spend intentional time with my best friend. Though refreshment and restoration rarely come in the form of a weekend getaway, God is faithful to give rest and strength when we need it most. May we ever turn to Him to restore our hearts and minds when we need refreshment, and give Him praise for the faithful ways that He provides.
The Lord is faithful,
No matter our need;
He hears what we ask,
Grants blessings indeed.
When weary and tired,
In great need of rest;
The way God answers,
Is always the best.
He refreshes strength,
Fortifies resolve;
Renews and restores,
Makes fatigue dissolve.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are faithful to refresh tired bodies and restore weary souls. Forgive us for attempting to press on through our own exhaustion, rather than seeking You for solutions to strengthen and restore us in our spaces of depletion. Teach us to trust You more, as You are the Grantor of strength who lifts us up when we cannot lift ourselves. Show us how to love those around us a way that strengthens and restores the weary and worn out in practical ways. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we rest in You. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Yes, my soul, find rest in God, my hope comes from Him. – Psalm 62:5