After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks.

Tradesmen of the same kind have a camaraderie that is sometimes bulletproof, so to speak. They use the same lingo, understand the nuances of the trade (many times without having to explain them or using a single word). I think there was a lot of refreshing of spirit going on here with Paul and Aquila and Priscilla. It is comfortable to work together in a craft that you are familiar with.

I have an older mentor-type friend who was an insurance producer in the past. He goes to a charitable club with me and it is a joy to see him. Somehow, he understands the ups and the downs of the business, without me having to say anything.

It is good to be with a brother and sister who can refresh you. God has provided a few of these people and a few of these times of refreshing for me and I am so thankful.

I notice here, Paul did not totally give up the ministry. He simply cut back his preaching hours and worked mainly on Saturday. Then he did something with his hands the rest of the time. Did he need income? Was he helping disciple Aquila and Priscilla? Was the distraction and focus on sewing tents good for his mind and soul? My guess is all of the above.

How do I relax, take time in a season, and seek refreshment? Can I long to work so much that I miss the relational opportunities along the way?

Lord, thank you for helping me see that there are seasons of ministry that are different and that you are designing times for my refreshment! I look forward to those times!