We were visiting some friends who had immigrated to the United States when they were younger. It was a difficult journey and transition from one country to another. They had to start over without the comforts of home while learning a new language and finding work to support themselves and their family among numerous other struggles. They have hung tenaciously onto the Lord through their years of challenges, and the Lord has brought them through each hurdle. Now in the latter years of their lives, they are experiencing the abundance of God in a truly beautiful way. It was a joy to see!

Numerous scriptures came to my mind while I was visiting with them. God is always truly faithful (see 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:24) and brings forth restoration as He makes all things beautiful in its time (see Ecclesiastes 3:11).

I looked up scriptures about restoration, and the search assist on my computer said this:

1. Restoration is often a journey, not an instant fix.
2. It involves faith and active seeking God’s help.
3. God desires to restore individuals, relationships and even creation itself.

It then went on to say that the Bible presents restoration as a central theme showing God’s power and mercy in recovering what was lost and bringing increase, multiplication, and honor in greater measure than before. Restoration in scripture takes many forms, including physical, spiritual, emotional, financial, relational and national revealing that no area of life is too damaged for God to repair and renew.

Yes, indeed, no life is too damaged for God to repair and renew! If that wasn’t enough, He does it all exceedingly above all we could ask or even think (Ephesians 3:20).

What is our part (work or service) in this? It is to believe, to cleave, to trust, to rely on, and to have faith in the one God sent: His son, Jesus Christ. (See John 6:29.) What a beautiful picture and promise! We just need to believe and walk in agreement with Him and we will see His goodness in the land of the living (Psalm 27:13.) as He brings beauty out of ashes (Isaiah 61:3) and restores and renews all things!

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You that You are a faithful God who desires and brings forth restoration and renewal in our lives. We ask for Your divine intervention in areas that need Your assistance. Help us to always trust in You and not lean on our own understanding (see Proverbs 3:5–6). When we cannot see the end from the beginning, wrap Your Love around us so that we can believe that we will see that everything You do is good and we can trust You for the very best in our lives.

Divine Exercises and Journal Prompts

1. Write out 3 scriptures that will help you meditate and bring hope in God’s ability to restore all things.
2. List 3 areas of your life can you apply these truths to instill hope and faith in God’s ability to restore you and perfect what concerns you.
3. Find 3 people you can encourage with these truths about restoration and join faith and pray for them to see the fulfillment of Gods promises.