Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "refreshes" in the Bible is often associated with renewal, rest, and the revitalization of the spirit, body, and soul. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, illustrating God's provision and care for His people, as well as the mutual encouragement believers are to provide one another.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the idea of refreshment is frequently linked to God's provision of physical sustenance and rest. For instance, in Exodus 23:12, the Sabbath is instituted as a day of rest: "For six days you are to do your work, but on the seventh day you must cease, so that your ox and your donkey may rest, and the son of your maidservant and the foreigner may be refreshed." Here, refreshment is tied to the observance of the Sabbath, emphasizing the importance of rest for all of creation. Psalm 23:3 speaks to spiritual refreshment: "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. New Testament References In the New Testament, refreshment often takes on a spiritual dimension, though physical refreshment is not excluded. In Acts 3:19, Peter calls for repentance so that times of refreshing may come from 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 links spiritual renewal with repentance and the presence of God. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of refreshment in the context of fellowship and mutual encouragement among believers. In Romans 15:32, he expresses his desire to visit the Roman Christians: "so that by God’s will I may come to you with joy and together with you be refreshed." Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 16:18, Paul commends Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus for refreshing his spirit: "For they refreshed my spirit and yours as well. Show your appreciation, therefore, to such men." Proverbs and Wisdom Literature The Book of Proverbs also addresses the theme of refreshment, often in the context of wise living and generosity. Proverbs 11:25 states, "A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." This proverb underscores the reciprocal nature of refreshment, suggesting that those who provide refreshment to others will themselves be renewed. Theological Implications Theologically, the concept of refreshment in the Bible points to God's desire for His people to experience rest and renewal, both physically and spiritually. It reflects the holistic care of God for His creation and the importance of community and fellowship among believers. Refreshment is not merely a physical necessity but a spiritual practice that aligns with God's design for human flourishing. In summary, the biblical theme of refreshment encompasses rest, renewal, and encouragement, serving as a reminder of God's provision and the mutual support believers are to offer one another. Through both divine intervention and human fellowship, refreshment is a gift that sustains and revitalizes the faithful. Strong's Hebrew 7725. shub -- to turn back, return... 1), put back (1), rebuilt* (2), recall (2), recalls* (1), receded (1), recompense (1), recompense* (1), recompensed (4), recovered (4), refreshes (1), refund (3 ... /hebrew/7725.htm - 9k Library Whether the Aureole Differs from the Fruit? Of the Conformity of Our Will to that Will of God's which is ... 1 Cor. Iii. 18, 19 Fragment ii. Therefore You Ought to Strive to the Utmost of Your ... The Wailing of Risca Love of Religion, a New Nature. Letter i. The Christian's Mark. As the vine is Supported by the Elm, So is the Rich Man Helped by ... The Epistle to Philemon "Pan, Pan is Dead" Thesaurus Refreshes (3 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Refreshes (3 Occurrences). Proverbs 11:25 He who gives blessing will be made fat, but the curser will himself be cursed. (See NIV). ... /r/refreshes.htm - 7k Refreshed (16 Occurrences) Refresheth (2 Occurrences) Refreshment (3 Occurrences) Refresh (18 Occurrences) Dew (35 Occurrences) Cold (25 Occurrences) Snow (25 Occurrences) Masters (59 Occurrences) Resources What is emblematic parallelism in Hebrew poetry? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the greatest promises in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How can I become a more cheerful giver? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Refreshes (3 Occurrences)Proverbs 11:25 Proverbs 15:30 Proverbs 25:13 Subtopics Related Terms |