“May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me.” – 2 Timothy 1: 16-17

Are you a refresher?

Paul commends Onesiphorus for his ministry of refreshing him and notes two qualities that made this exceptional. First, because Paul was in chains, it would be an embarrassment to have any contact with him. Second, Onesiphorus had to go the extra mile to locate Paul. This was not an act of convenience, but demanded the sacrifice of both time and the opinions of others.

What is the ministry of refreshing?

It is to come alongside with the intended purpose of bringing relief, renewal, peace, and comfort. It means to bring a cold glass of water to a friend who is laboring under very hot conditions. The friend is exhausted and ready to give up. This is an effort not to change the situation but to bring aid in the midst of the struggle.

How do you refresh another?

  • It can be with a few words, a reminder of God’s love and faithfulness.
  • It can be with an act of kindness, to assist them in their trials, or to provide a temporary oasis for refreshment, a time-out from the emotional onslaught.
  • It can be your supportive presence as you listen to their pain and frustration.
  • It can be with a gift of a flower, a card, or their favorite food. Acts that say I care for you. Be encouraged.

The ministry of refreshing is an act of love for another. The world will know the love we have for the brethren by the way we refresh one another.