Scripture Reading: Acts 3:19 (NIV)
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."
Devotional Thought:
We all long for a fresh start—moments in life when we can wipe the slate clean, catch our breath, and be renewed in heart and spirit. In Acts 3, after the miraculous healing of the lame man, Peter doesn’t just celebrate the miracle. Instead, he seizes the moment to point the crowd to something even greater: spiritual renewal.
Peter boldly calls the people to repentance, not out of condemnation, but out of love and urgency. He says, “Repent… that times of refreshing may come.” The Greek word for "refreshing" speaks of relief, revival, and restoration—a divine reset that only God can give. It’s more than just emotional relief. It’s the presence of God flooding your soul, clearing out guilt, shame, weariness, and replacing it with joy, clarity, and peace.
What’s striking here is the order: repentance comes first, and then refreshing. Sometimes we want the refreshment without the repentance. But God’s promise is sure: when we turn back to Him sincerely, He doesn’t meet us with rejection. He meets us with refreshing—a renewed spirit, a softened heart, and open doors to purpose.
Reflection Questions:
- Are there areas in your life where you need to turn back to God today?
- What would “times of refreshing” look like for you in this season?
- How can you make space daily to experience God’s renewal?
Prayer:
Lord, I confess that I’ve often tried to carry on in my strength, neglecting the need to repent and realign with You. Today, I choose to turn back to You. Cleanse my heart, forgive my sins, and breathe Your fresh wind of renewal into my life. Let Your presence refresh my soul, and help me walk forward in the joy and peace that only You can give. Amen.
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