Topical Encyclopedia
The term "refresheth" in the Bible often conveys the idea of renewal, restoration, and invigoration, both physically and spiritually. It is a concept that underscores God's provision and care for His people, as well as the rejuvenating power of His presence and Word.
Biblical Usage and Context1.
Physical Refreshment: In the Old Testament, the idea of refreshment is frequently associated with physical sustenance and rest. For instance, in
Exodus 23:12 , God commands the Israelites to observe the Sabbath so that "your ox and your donkey may rest, and the son of your maidservant and the foreigner may be refreshed." Here, refreshment is linked to the restorative power of rest, a principle established by God for the well-being of all creation.
2.
Spiritual Refreshment: The Psalms often speak of spiritual refreshment.
Psalm 23:3 states, "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name." This verse highlights the Lord as the Shepherd who refreshes and restores the soul, guiding His people in righteousness. The refreshment here is not merely physical but deeply spiritual, providing peace and renewal to the inner being.
3.
Emotional and Relational Refreshment:
Proverbs 25:13 uses the imagery of refreshment to describe the value of a faithful messenger: "Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the soul of his masters." This proverb illustrates how reliability and faithfulness in relationships can bring emotional refreshment and joy.
4.
New Testament Insights: In the New Testament, the concept of refreshment is often associated with the ministry of encouragement and support among believers. In
Philemon 1:7 , Paul writes, "Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints." Here, refreshment is linked to the love and fellowship within the Christian community, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and encouragement.
5.
The Refreshing Presence of the Holy Spirit:
Acts 3:19 speaks of spiritual refreshment through repentance and the presence of the Lord: "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord." This passage underscores the transformative power of repentance and the Holy Spirit's role in bringing spiritual renewal and refreshment.
Theological ImplicationsThe concept of refreshment in the Bible is deeply tied to God's character as a provider and sustainer. It reflects His desire for His people to experience wholeness and vitality in every aspect of life. Whether through physical rest, spiritual renewal, or relational encouragement, God's provision of refreshment is a testament to His love and care.
Moreover, the biblical theme of refreshment points to the ultimate rest and renewal found in Christ. Jesus invites all who are weary to come to Him for rest (
Matthew 11:28), offering a profound spiritual refreshment that transcends earthly circumstances. This invitation is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, promising believers a foretaste of the eternal refreshment that awaits in the presence of God.
Library
The Testament of Asher Concerning Two Faces of vice and virtue.
... sweareth falsely against the Most High, and yet pitieth the poor: the Lord who
commandeth the law he setteth at nought and provoketh, andrefresheth the poor...
Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself
... Many words satisfy not the soul, but a good liferefresheth the mind, and
a pure conscience giveth great confidence towards God....
On the Words of the Gospel, John vi. 9, Where the Miracle of the...
... He is Himself "The Bread which came down from heaven;" [3892] but Bread which
refresheth the failing, and doth not fail; Bread which can be tasted, [3893...
Of Seeking Divine Help, and the Confidence of Obtaining Grace
... For before thou earnestly seekest unto Me, thou dost first seek after many means
of comfort, andrefresheth thyself in outward things: so it cometh to pass...
"Boast not Thyself of To-Morrow, for Thou Knowest not what a Day...
... You find how the senses are refreshed, when they meet with their suitable object;
how a pleasant smellrefresheth the scent; how lively and beautiful colours...
It Raiseth Corn to Supply You with Food
... It concocteth minerals, raiseth exhalations, begetteth clouds, sendeth down the
dew and rain and snow, thatrefresheth and repaireth all the earth....
When Things are Ours in their Proper Places
... The Clouds and Stars minister unto us, the World surrounds us with beauty,
the Airrefresheth us, the Sea revives the earth and us....
Of the Corruption of Nature and the Efficacy of Divine Grace
... salvation and true holiness. Whatsoever I read or hear besides it, it
refresheth me not, nor giveth me delight. 4. "My son, because...
"This Then is the Message which we have Heard of Him, and Declare...
... of the grace and goodness of God in Christ, which discovers a way of salvation,
and delivery from sin and wrath, and this perfumeth andrefresheth all the...
Matt. xvi. 24
... wise man said, "If thou beat thy son with a rod, he shall not die, but thou shalt
deliver his soul from death." [2139] And again, "He thatrefresheth his son...
Thesaurus
Refresheth (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Refresheth (2 Occurrences). Psalms 23:3 My soul He
refresheth,
He leadeth me in paths of righteousness, For His name's sake, (YLT).
...Refreshing (6 Occurrences)
Refreshes (3 Occurrences)
Leads (64 Occurrences)
... He leads me beside still waters. (WEB NAS RSV NIV). Psalms 23:3 My soul Herefresheth,
He leadeth me in paths of righteousness, For His name's sake, (See RSV)....
Vessel (118 Occurrences)
... Proverbs 25:13 As a vessel of snow in a day of harvest, 'So is' a faithful ambassador
to those sending him, And the soul of his masters herefresheth. (YLT)....
Resources
Bible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
