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Refresh.

How do I find refreshment? When the month of February arrives, it becomes a struggle to navigate the days ahead. It was a cold day on February 5 when I said goodbye to my husband Bill. Because of the memories that arrived this month, I long for a refresh button. Just as a computer refreshes the screen, I would love to refresh my perspective on life. No longer do I want to dwell on the sadness the loss of my husband brings. Instead, I would like to refocus on my future plans and remember the good memories from the past. It is easy to allow discouragement and loss to fill my heart and focus on my disappointments. As a believer when I am yoked with Christ, He leads and guides me and can carry my burdens. He can refresh my thoughts. When I focus on His word, my inner being is refreshed.

“The law of the Lord is perfect,
refreshing the soul.”
Psalm 19:7a (ESV)

Restore.

After the Lord refreshes me, I allow Him to restore me. I know that after being refreshed in God’s Word, His plans become my plans. Only God can make grace abound so that restoration is possible. Psalm 23 reminds me of His ability to restore my soul. I need restoration. It would be easy to allow the weight of loss to occupy present moments. Instead, I ask myself what burdens do I need to submit to the Lord right now? Sometimes it takes a reminder that He is capable of handling these things for me. As the years pass and opportunities present themselves to reflect and refocus, I can find my soul refreshed and restored when I lean on Jesus.

“He restores my soul;
he leads me in the paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.”
Psalm 23:3 (ESV)

Reflect.

What do I reflect? When I see myself in a mirror, my reflection is an image of more than just the clothes I have selected that morning. My reflection speaks to the condition of my heart. Winter months often stir sad thoughts and struggles within me. Whether I am filled with disappointment or excited about the day, my countenance reflects and expresses those emotions. I long for others to see Jesus in me.

So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord – who is the Spirit- makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT)

How do I reflect God to others? Each day I need a divine perspective; God provides that for me. I can live out each day with excellence, and integrity. When I guard my heart attitude, I reflect the Lord. My loss does not define me. My life can be filled with opportunities and new directions when I seek God’s plan and follow His word. When I am yoked with Christ, He leads, He guides, and He carries my burdens. As I behold the Lord, I become transformed. Only then can I reflect the glory of the Lord.

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace.
2 Corinthians 13:11 (NIV)

Rejoice.

Oh, how I long to rejoice. There are moments when rejoicing seems natural, and my heart is full. When I remember the promises of God and dwell on them, I know He can be trusted. That is when I am refreshed. As I strive to live for Jesus, I trust His character and I know He is capable of changing me. Then I can be restored. When I realize the importance of living in the present and seeking God’s new plans and purposes for my life, I can begin to reflect Jesus. As I develop the mind of Christ and live as He teaches, I can rejoice. As I rejoice peace and hope fill my heart.

Lord,

Thank You for Your word. Your promises and character provide confidence to allow me to handle my loss. I look forward to the ways You will refresh me. I need Your restoration and want to reflect You each day. Allow me to move forward and find Your plans and purpose. Help me to rejoice again and have direction and peace as I find the path You have for me.

In Jesus Name, Amen