A Fountain Mist of Refreshment

Philemon 1:4-6
I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus. I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

If I could paint the feeling of peace, I'd paint it the new color of my walls— 

Fountain Mist.

My daughter, Maggie, planned to paint our living room, dining area, and hallway last fall. Circumstances rearranged the timing. Seven months later, she edged, rolled, and feathered with a brush a beautiful shade of light aqua-blue on our walls. As I watched and played gopher, a gorgeous transformation took place. The dingy white/gray walls disappeared and a refreshing peacefulness covered our home. With Maggie's expertise, she revived the dreary rooms and created a space for inspiration and contentment.

I love the new color and Maggie's generous spirit. Both brought a feeling of gratitude.

Going through this difficult year of 2020, my spirit needs refreshment. Whether from new wall color, time in God's word, praying, writing, reading, or enjoying nature, I seek God's encouragement. With all the negative news and comments, I beg for peace and search for understanding.

The Apostle Paul writes the best greetings in his letters to the churches and his friends. Philemon, must have been a man who encouraged and loved his brothers and sisters in Christ. He was a servant who "refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people." In this time of fear and doubt I pray I can be a servant who refreshes and encourages. I pray for peace to fill all hearts.

How can you refresh the people around you?

How can I encourage you?

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11