The promise and examples of restoration are all throughout the Bible. My definition of “restore” which is most certainly close to others is (1) to be given back something that you once had that was either lost or taken from you (2)to be placed back in a position that you once held or in a position that you may not have desired but by being there you are fruitful and positively impact others (3) to be in a right spirit, a right frame of mind, the right way of understanding and handling situations.
Today there is a lot of discussion of #1, restoring of physical and material things and that is fine. God is wonderful like that! But I think all elements of restoration are connected. It may not be correct mathematically, but if #2 and #3 then #1 is a sure thing. A concept sometimes referred to as being “in the right place at the right time”. While God is “the restorer” don’t forget the object of his affection, YOU. If you’re not in #2 and #3 then #1 is sometimes delayed, not received fully or not received at all. We can’t just sing and pray for restoration we have to be in position. In a position of humility, desiring the word of God, giving to the less fortunate, witnessing to the brother or sister that has not received God’s salvation, comprising, tithing, honesty, visiting the sick, praying for the broken hearted, forgiving and encouraging the bereaved and the hurt. If you are in a position that is not about you, restoration comes without your asking.
Jeremiah 30: 17 For I will restore health to you and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord…
Job 33: 26 He prays to God, and He is favorable to him, so that he sees His face with joy; for [God] restores to him his righteousness (his uprightness and right standing with God–with its joys).
Job 42: 10 After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.
Isaiah 61:7 Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion; instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot; therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion; they shall have everlasting joy.
Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.
Jeremiah 30:1-3 THE WORD that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel: Write all the words that I have spoken to you in a book. For, note well, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will release from captivity My people Israel and Judah, says the Lord, and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they will possess it.
