Times of Refreshing
Acts 3:19,20 Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. (NRSV)
When we’re being tempted, the devil dangles something seductive, something attractive, under our noses. It’s a conjuring trick, because where he promises some benefit, it will ultimately just lead us to destruction.
It’s a familiar pattern of his that needs some unmasking. Temptation is alluring. It has to be – otherwise, why would you even go there? The temptation to lie promises some financial or other advantage. The temptation to spread rumours, to gossip, promises to make us look important because we know some secret that they don’t know.
The “gains” (if you can indeed call them that) are always short term, masking the ultimate destruction to which they lead. A compulsive liar will be found out and their reputation will be ruined. A gossiper will end up destroying relationships. You get the drift.
That’s why it’s so important to turn away from our sin, because holiness, righteousness … call it what you will … holds a promise that is true, a promise that’s worth more than its weight in gold.
Acts 3:19,20 Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. (NRSV)We chatted about the first half of that verse yesterday, so today let’s focus on the second half … because whatever false promises of short-term benefit the enemy’s temptations hold forth, the promise of God is His very Presence that will refresh us over and over and over again.
Let’s just stop and breathe that in. When we turn away from sin and towards God – in prayer, in desire, in thoughts, words and deeds – we will experience His Presence, a Presence that will continually refresh our lives.
Times of refreshing. That’s the powerful promise of God for those who repent.
And that’s His Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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