REFRESHING THE SOIL

Essentially to refreshing the soul is the spirit of God. This would seem basic, but it really isn't. What truly refreshes that ethereal wisp of awareness flowing through our essence? It is the question that often causes confusion from my point of view.

There are many elements that some label as "spiritual." I think the most common reference would be to things that are more serene and touch the calming and loving aspects of our thoughts.

But that kind of refreshing, however beneficial, is not the same as one that comes from being refreshed by the Lord's spirit. For when God is the author the refreshing never happens that one isn't aware of his touch.

The more transitory, feel good, caress that leave us with a more tranquil feeling does have merit. Going to some place such as a forest, mountains or a lake does touch with a certain appreciable energy.

And there are times when such energy truly is worthwhile. Still, it is not the type of refreshing that goes beyond a specific level of experience.

For some, they will never know the difference. They will be content with the feeling for the moment and not seek more.

However, for the follower of Christ, who is truly graced by his spirit, this type of moment only fuels the passion for seeing beyond the transcendental silhouettes to the more profound. It is to see the hand of God molding and quietly shaped all the elements of life. It is to know that there is purpose to some refreshing moments for the soul that has a more significant intention. Most of all it is to honor the Lord with one's thoughts at times we are inhaling some pure sunlight of being.

Keeping the Lord center in the eyesight during such times of gifting truly can enrich th moment. It produces a form of blessing that can't be measured by one's pocket book.

Often it is felt with so much more passion and intensity that the simpler times when one is content to just savor some whiff of peace. And that will bring far more comfort in the times when hell's fingers of hate dig into our circumstances.

We can let God's light outshine such evil and keep in focus what he says is important. That truly does come with greater calm and contentment than merely enjoying fresh air or a rustic setting.

I can only speak for myself in that regard. God has refreshed me in so many special ways in my life. In part because I have had to endure so many times of darkness of having to stand in the shadows of adversity. It is when it is the darkness though, that his spirit often shines the best. Providing we have eyes to see and a heart to receive those gifts that many will never understand.