Refresh

A generous person will prosper, whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25 NIV

2 Kings, chapter 4, recounts the story of a Shunammite Woman who created a guest room in her house for the prophet Elisha. Whenever he passed that way, he was welcomed into her and her husband’s home where he received refreshment and a place to rest.

Ultimately, God would bless her with a son. Yet, it is essential to recognize that this woman acted without any ulterior motive. She had no idea God would bless her in return. Her gift was simply offered out of the kindness of her heart.. This is the kind of service that delights God. His heart is gladdened when His children give freely and unconditionally (2 Corinthians 9:7). When we choose to use the gifts God has so generously poured out on us to bless others, you can be sure He will honor it.

One lesson my husband and I have learned over the years is that we can never outgive God. We recently experienced that firsthand when we felt led to give over and above what we would normally donate to a ministry that offers succor to pastors who are discouraged and considering leaving the ministry. Mind you, we gave freely because both of our hearts were stirred by this ministry. We did not give expecting anything in return. Yet barely an hour later, a large order came through in our online Etsy shop. The amount was exactly four times what we had just given to the Lord.

You and I have a choice: we can either cling tightly to what we have or we can open our fists and share freely God’s blessings from above (James 1:17). Today, I would urge you to consider what you have to offer those you meet. It might just be the gift of time or lending an ear to someone who is hurting. Perhaps it’s as simple as sending a note of encouragement to a friend who is struggling or praying for a soul in search of God’s grace. Perhaps a young mother in your church or community could use a break and would be thrilled to have you watch her kids for a couple of hours so she can get out of the house. God has blessed you and me abundantly. So pass it on. Therein, you will find joy and refreshment – just because you gave.

Prayer: Today, I choose to walk with my hands wide open and my spirit attentive to your will. Use me as a channel to bless, comfort, help, and intercede for those with whom I interact. Make me a blessing to everyone I meet. In your name I pray, Amen.

Thought: “Do you often feel like parched ground, unable to produce anything worthwhile? I do. When I am in need of refreshment, it isn’t easy to think of the needs of others. But I have found that if, instead of praying for my own comfort and satisfaction, I ask the Lord to enable me to give to others, an amazing thing often happens – I find my own needs wonderfully met. Refreshment comes in ways I would never have thought of, both for others, and then, incidentally, for myself.” – Elisabeth Elliot