After a little more than a week of being laid up from one of those old-age illnesses, I ventured into our backyard aching to get my first up-close glimpse of our orange blossoms. They did not disappoint. In abundant array, they crowned nearly every branch stretching its glory into the sky.

The closer I approached, the stronger the heady scent of citrus perfumed the air. What a welcome it offered to leaving behind sickness and stepping into health again. Just walking into fresh air and sunshine made me experience living again. Add the glory of citrus blossoms made my spirits soar.

How could something so simple as walking outside bring refreshment to my soul? The blossoms bring a promise–hope that in the fall we will once again see the harvest of oranges.

Doesn’t this remind you of the refreshment and hope we can find in God’s presence and His word? Yet, too often, I put off this life-giving experience and put other things before taking the quiet time with God that will drive out my soul sickness.

God’s promise brings a hope greater than a fall harvest. He offers us the promise of abundant life, rest when we are weary, the guarantee of His constant presence, forgiveness of our sins, new mercies every morning, and in the end–life forever in His presence.

So, where will I dwell? Muddling through on my own efforts and ignoring His promises or resting in His refreshment and hope?

Join me in pursuing the heady fragrance of God’s Spirit and His promises. They’re life-giving.

“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b NIV

Linking with: Word of God Speak, The Beauty in His Grip, Monday Musings, Tell Me a True Story, Tell Me His Story, Testimony Tuesday, Woman to Woman, Three-Word Wednesday, Thought-Provoking Thursdays, Weekend Whispers, Give Me Grace, Faith-Filled Friday