Times Of Refreshing

TIMES OF REFRESHING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 3:19-21

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 44:3, Joel 2:28-29, Matthew 11:28, John 7:37-39, Psalm 85:6

INTRODUCTION

There are seasons in life when we feel spiritually dry, weary, and burdened. These are moments when our strength seems depleted, and our faith feels weak. However, God has promised times of refreshing to those who turn to Him in repentance and faith. In Acts 3:19-21, Peter speaks of this divine refreshing that comes from the presence of the Lord.

The term “refreshing” refers to a renewal, a revival, or a fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit. It is a time when the weary receive strength, the broken are restored, and the discouraged find hope. Throughout Scripture, we see that God repeatedly brings seasons of refreshing to His people when they seek Him with all their hearts.

As believers, we must position ourselves to receive this divine refreshing. Whether through personal devotion, corporate revival, or the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, God is always willing to renew us if we hunger and thirst for Him.

1. THE SOURCE OF TIMES OF REFRESHING

a) The Presence of the Lord (Exodus 33:14)

True refreshing comes when we dwell in God's presence.

b) The Word of God (Psalm 119:50)

The Scriptures revive our spirits and restore our faith.

c) The Holy Spirit (John 7:37-39)

The Spirit of God is the fountain of living water that refreshes our souls.

d) Repentance and Obedience (Acts 3:19)

Turning away from sin and submitting to God brings divine refreshing.

e) Biblical Example: Elijah at Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:5-8)

After his exhaustion and despair, Elijah was refreshed by God's provision and presence.

2. SIGNS THAT YOU NEED TIMES OF REFRESHING

a) Spiritual dryness and lack of passion for God (Psalm 42:1-2)

When your soul thirsts for God but feels distant, you need refreshing.

b) Weakness and discouragement (Isaiah 40:29-31)

When weariness sets in, God renews strength.

c) Stagnation and lack of progress (Habakkuk 3:2)

If you feel stuck in your faith, a divine refreshing is needed.

d) Loss of joy and peace (Nehemiah 8:10)

When joy fades, God restores it through revival.

e) Biblical Example: David’s Cry for Restoration (Psalm 51:10-12)

After his fall, David sought God for renewal and refreshing.

3. HOW TO EXPERIENCE TIMES OF REFRESHING

a) Seeking God in prayer and fasting (Jeremiah 29:13)

A desperate heart that seeks God will be refreshed.

b) Immersing in the Word of God (Joshua 1:8)

The Word strengthens and renews the mind.

c) Walking in the power of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18)

Being filled with the Spirit brings continuous refreshing.

d) Engaging in heartfelt worship (John 4:24)

Worship opens the heavens and releases God’s refreshing presence.

e) Biblical Example: The Early Church at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4)

When they gathered in prayer, the Holy Spirit refreshed and empowered them.

4. THE IMPACT OF TIMES OF REFRESHING

a) Renewed strength and passion for God (Isaiah 40:31)

Spiritual energy is restored when God refreshes us.

b) Revival and transformation (Psalm 85:6)

When God refreshes, revival breaks forth.

c) Victory over struggles and temptations (Romans 8:13)

The Spirit empowers us to overcome sin.

d) Greater boldness and effectiveness in ministry (Acts 4:31)

Refreshing brings new courage to serve God.

e) Biblical Example: The Revival in Samaria (Acts 8:5-8)

When Philip preached, the city experienced joy and renewal.

CONCLUSION

God desires to bring times of refreshing to His people. Whenever we feel weary, dry, or burdened, He invites us to draw near to Him and receive new strength. His presence, His Word, and His Spirit are the keys to experiencing divine refreshing.

If you are in a season of dryness, do not remain there. Seek God, repent where necessary, and open your heart for a fresh outpouring. A new season of joy, strength, and victory awaits you in the Lord’s presence.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, refresh my soul and fill me with Your presence.

2. Father, renew my strength and passion for Your kingdom.

3. Holy Spirit, let Your refreshing power fall upon my life.

4. Lord, remove every dryness and restore my joy.

5. Let the fire of revival burn in my life and in the Church.