Day Five

He refreshes my soul.


Reflective Thought

Today, we’re going to talk about our souls for two reasons: they need refreshing, and only God can refresh them.

But what exactly is a soul? We can’t see or hold one, though one exists inside every human.

Dallas Willard, a wise follower of Jesus, offers this definition:

Our souls are like an inner stream of water, which gives strength, direction, and harmony to every other element of our lives.
- Renovation of the Heart

This “inner stream” affects every dimension of our being. From today’s verse, we learn that our souls have the potential to need refreshing. What would cause this to happen? If we tease out the stream metaphor, we can better understand how this could happen.

In nature, streams always have a pure water source. People enjoy the benefits of this water to the degree the stream is maintained. Are toxic chemicals allowed? Can people dump trash in it? Has the flow become obstructed and stagnated? Even nature’s streams suffer when toxins and pollutants are tolerated.

At some point, the stream will require professional help to restore it to health so that it provides refreshment to those depending on it. It’s no different for the believer whose inner stream is sourced in God, our Good Shepherd.

Think of it like this: a maintained stream (i.e., pursuing healthy relationships and influences) = ongoing vibrancy, vitality; an unmaintained stream = ongoing lethargy, listlessness. The great news is that no matter how cluttered or toxic the stream may have become, God is always willing to refresh it for us if we’ll invite him to do so.

Questions to Ponder

What is the current condition of my soul: clean or polluted?

How can I begin or continue ongoing healthy stream maintenance?


Prayer

Good Shepherd, please restore my soul as I entrust it to your care. Let my life reflect the vibrancy and vitality of a pure inner stream sourced in you alone.