For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
1 Corinthians 16:18 NIV
As believers, we are expected to live differently from the rest of society. God expects that everyone who comes in contact with us will also encounter Him through us. Such a contact should be refreshing to others. We are not supposed to sow toxicity or be toxic individuals. People should feel encouraged and uplifted when they are around us. Their lives must encounter Jesus, and that is true refreshment.
Paul recognised this set of people in his letters. Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus exemplified the life of Christ they had received. As a missionary and disciple, he noted that believers brought a sense of refreshment to his soul, even in unfamiliar places. As believers, we have the opportunity to share with others, whether it is our attention, food, water, companionship, or simply celebrating with someone. What must be paramount is that our hospitality refreshes others.
People must not leave our presence with a negative change in their lives. It is not only about ensuring people are fed, given water, or a place to rest their heads. Whenever they come in contact with us, they should meet the source of true refreshment, which is God, in us.
Consider this: when people come around you, what do they feel? Do they encounter the peace of God? Will they experience a river flowing, causing a refreshing to their soul? There is no way your life can bring true refreshment to others if God has not refreshed you. Our service will be futile if people cannot encounter true refreshments from our lives. Even if we cater to their bodily needs, everything we do must also cater to their spirit and soul so they encounter God. That is true refreshment.
For example, imagine inviting a friend over for tea and a chat. You not only provide a comfortable space and refreshments but also share words of encouragement and life and listen to their concerns. Another instance could be volunteering, where you offer a listening ear, a kind word and the word of God beyond serving meals. These actions ensure that people leave your presence feeling uplifted and spiritually nourished.
Ultimately, our goal as believers is to be a source of God’s refreshment to everyone we meet, impacting their lives positively.
