Storms of Life: Encouragement for Seasons of StruggleSample

Time for Refreshing

On the seventh day he rested and was refreshed. (Exod. 31:17)

Hurricanes wear me out. The week preceding we’re unsure of the path yet need to spend the time and energy to prepare. Maybe we evacuate or maybe we stay during the storm, but either way, the overwhelming ferocity of these tempests leaves us feeling washed out. Immediately after the storm we must deal with any cleanup, critical repairs, or lingering damages. It’s fatiguing. Like hurricanes, major changes in life can leave me feeling emotionally and spiritually drained when the severity of adjustments and activities has calmed.

To say God was busy during the six days of creation is a colossal understatement. Out of nothing, God created everything. He created the universe, galaxies, planets, and stars. He created our earth with all its beauty of mountains, oceans, and lands. He created the air we breathe and the water we drink. He created all creatures from the microscopic plankton to the behemoth elephant. He created space, gravity, and all the elements and forces of nature. He created Adam and Eve.

On the seventh day, God took time to rest and be refreshed. I can imagine God walking in the garden of Eden with Adam and Eve enjoying the birds, animals, plants, and each other. God wants to refresh you and give you rest after an exhausting time in your life. So take the time to walk in a garden, visit with a friend, or play with your kids, grandkids, or pets; and be refreshed!

As you pray, ask God to refresh your spirit and restore your soul.

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We hope this plan encouraged you.

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