A weekend visit from my sister, lily of the valley from our backyard in New Jersey transported by plane to Florida, amazing meals, running in the rain, sunset views from my porch, a great sermon at church followed by great theological discussions, a handmade card from an old friend and an unexpected cold front thrown in by God just to delight me.

God knew I needed to be refreshed. He knew I needed anapauō.

Ana-what, you say?  Anapauō  is a Greek word used in the Bible that means, “to cause or permit one to cease from any movement or labour in order to recover and collect strength”.

Recover and collect strength.  I love that.  God brings anapauō through family and friends and memorable meals and sunset views and sermons.  And He brings it through time spent with Him and time spent in His Word.

  “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you anapauō (rest).”  Matthew 11:28

Praying that God will give you anapauō today in unexpected and delightful ways.

Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in the Lord. Philemon 1:20

Then he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart, but the young woman’s father said, “Please refresh your heart.” So they delayed until afternoon; and both of them ate. Judges 19:8

 Return to your rest, O my soul, for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.          Psalm 116:7