Times of Refreshing

By: Carole L. Haines 

“Therefore, repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” 
(Acts 3:19) 

I just finished giving a talk on the dangers of denial in our lives. I am a leader in Celebrate Recovery and this Ministry has done more to grow me up in Christ in the last 3-4 years than any other time of growth in my life. I love what one of the founders said, “We’re all in recovery because we are all sinners.” There is no sidestepping or minimizing the need for us to admit, repent and return to God. It must hang out of our lives like a white flag of surrender to Him. I once heard confession defined as, “agreeing with God about our sin.” Amen to that!!! 

But Peter shares a great insight into the benefit of repenting and returning to God. 
 “Therefore, repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” 
(Acts 3:19) 

Denial keeps us trapped in our sin and the consequences of it. Facing ourselves can feel scary but take it from one who has and is doing just that; times of refreshing do come. Peace floods our souls; joy fills our hearts. Confession is a real struggle but the Times of Refreshing are so worth it. Go through, but don’t go alone. Go with God and some trusted brothers and sisters in Christ.   

“The only thing that will enable me to enjoy adversity is the acute sense of eagerness of allowing the life of the Son of God to evidence itself in me. No matter how difficult something may be, I must say, “Lord, I am delighted to obey You in this.” Instantly, the Son of God will move to the forefront of my life and 
 will manifest in my body that which glorifies Him.  
(Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest; May 17, 2021)