The Invitation of Restoration

This Sunday morning was a reminder of our God’s heart for restoration.

It’s interesting how often we resent our need for restoration. Truth be told, we’d sometimes rather be self sufficient. Our hearts can often echo the prodigal: “Give me all I need to make it on my own. Give me enough that I don’t need You anymore.”

We wouldn’t say that, of course. Yet the constant wear and tear on our souls frustrates us endlessly.

The battle that can erupt in our minds when we miss our prayer time just one morning.

The daily tug of war between what pleases the flesh and what pleases the Spirit.

The sanctified struggle to filter our emotions through Truth.

A need for restoration doesn’t mean there’s been a great falling away or a return to a life of sin. Sometimes it’s a small drift from Truth, in who God is or how He sees us. It could be just a hesitancy where God is leading, or a seed of bitterness attempting to take root. Our souls are in constant need of restoration.

Consider, though, that it is our constant need that invites constant relationship. Restoration doesn’t happen at a distance- it is an invitation to come close. Our Pastor painted such a vivid picture of the gentle Shepherd restoring His helpless sheep. And so our dependency on God can be what brings us close to Him. We come to the place where we cannot afford anything but a daily walk with the Lord, because we won’t make it one step on our own. It feels weak, because it is. It’s only at that point of weakness, where we lean entirely on Him, that we become strong.

Do a check up on your soul today. Take inventory of your thoughts, your desires, and your emotions. Is there anything that needs restored? Don’t hide it- take it to your Father. His call for restoration is your invitation to come close.