A Refreshing Conclusion

1 These are more proverbs of Solomon, collected by the advisers of King Hezekiah of Judah.
2 It is God’s privilege to conceal things and the king’s privilege to discover them.
3 No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, or all that goes on in the king’s mind!
4 Remove the impurities from silver, and the sterling will be ready for the silversmith.
5 Remove the wicked from the king’s court, and his reign will be made secure by justice.
6 Don’t demand an audience with the king or push for a place among the great.
7 It’s better to wait for an invitation to the head table than to be sent away in public disgrace.
Just because you’ve seen something,
8 don’t be in a hurry to go to court. For what will you do in the end if your neighbor deals you a shameful defeat?
9 When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret.
10 Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.
11 Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.
12 To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.
13 Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer. They revive the spirit of their employer.
14 A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give it is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.

A few years ago, a major snowstorm came at the end of October. For farmers with crops still in the field, such an early snow is anything but refreshing. It makes for a muddy, wet mess as the remaining crops are harvested.

For the ancient Israelites, however, snow was an encouraging sign. As summer turned to fall in the hot climate of Palestine, it was refreshing to see snow begin covering the northern mountains and to know that a quieter season lay ahead. And in those days before refrigeration, receiving a drink cooled by snow was a rare treat.

Perhaps you find yourself in the midst of a busy season. God meets us at times when we feel overwhelmed by the tasks looming ahead, or emotionally exhausted by all we’ve been dealing with. He calls us to “lift up [our] eyes to the mountains” and to trust that our “help comes from the Lord” (Psalm 121:1-2).

What’s more, God has sent his own Son to be a trustworthy messenger of his refreshing gift (Acts 3:19-20). To all who trust in Jesus, God gives the promise that his harvest work in our souls will bring us rest.

Look today for that faithful messenger, the Savior, and trust in him for true refreshment.

Heavenly Father, we often find ourselves worn out by the pace of life and by all we face here on this earth. Help us to find your refreshment for us in Christ. Amen.