Be Refreshing
Beth Jones
"…looking forward to being refreshed by your company…" Romans 15:32, Message
What refreshes you? Sunshine and blue sky? Snow covered mountains? White sand and aqua blue waters? Prayer? A nap? A massage? An ice cream cone? How about good company?
There's something refreshing about being with good friends. (Although prayer and a great massage are close runner-ups!) We weren't created to be Lone Rangers – we need the revitalization that comes from relationships – especially God-knit ones! The Lord created us to laugh, share, comfort and encourage one another. Who refreshes you?
When I am out and about, I like to watch people interact with each other – talking, sharing, debating, persuading, hugging, crying and laughing. I am always amazed that no matter what culture, language or circle we run with, God has wired us to desire and seek the refreshing that comes from the company of others.
So, here are the big questions: Are you a refresher or a drainer? Do people enjoy or dread your company? Do you add to the lives of those you are with or do you take from them? Is the conversation and focus all about you or a healthy balance of their interests and yours? Do you laugh easily or are you a serious downer? What attitude describes you as you walk into a room full of others? Are you encouraging, optimistic and fun to be with or are you self-absorbed, negative and a stick-in-the-mud?
I hope you are great company and superb in recharging others! However, in the event your relationships have been slipping...make a new commitment to focus on refreshing others today! Hit the relational reset button and get busy being good company. Be a breath of fresh air to those in your world and the kind of person people look forward to being around!
Let the refreshing begin!
Say This: "Father, I am so thankful for the great people You have put in my life. They are so fun, encouraging, interesting and refreshing! I ask You to help me be the kind of person who lifts others. I want to be a breath of fresh air to others. Help me to be good company and focused on refreshing those around me with joy, encouragement and laughter. In Jesus' Name. Amen."