Jean Oathout shares a quote about restoration: “To restore means to put something back into its original condition."
Many people restore antique cars and furniture.
Works of art are restored or brought back to their original beauty through painstaking labor of removing layers of filth accumulated over long periods of time, to their original beauty.
Things only need restoration when they have been changed from their original purpose and become worn, tarnished or damaged.”
When we realize that something important to us has been changed, and we don’t want it to continue in that condition, we have the choice of making a change.
Will we renew what used to be, if at all possible, or maintain the present condition, preventing further damage?
The truth of the matter is, what we conceive to be an original in any subject at hand, may either be better in its present condition, or may have lost what was originally intended .
Upon close examination, do we see that there is something that can be done to bring back the intended value of the subject in question, or are we content to leave well enough alone?
When certain things seem to have lost their value over time through wear, bad handling, or determined harm, we may have the obligation to take things in hand, to bring a restoration for its improvement and increased value.
Whether it is in business, personal life, or an object, the need may be great, and we’ll need to examine things carefully for the intended purpose in it’s beginning.
If it is a business question, have things changed for the betterment of everyone, or have decisions made caused problems and hardships?
If it is personal, has it made relations improve, or worsen?
Marriage relationships too, may need some restoration, to keep them strong and healthy.
If they aren’t attended to on a regular, daily basis with determined effort, a serious deterioration can take place.
Both partners are responsible to keep their love and commitment strong for one another.
Everyone concerned, especially the children are affected. They’ll need to witness a healthy marriage, if they are to know how to have one, too.
What about one’s beliefs? Have there been significant changes that have taken us away from truths originally intended for us?
Do we know what was passed on to us to be truth, or do we sense there may have been significant changes?
Are we seeing what God intended in the beginning? Are we willing to do some research on this important subject?
Will what we believe draw us closer to God, or become a hindrance in finding Him in times we need His help and guidance?
What has been changed can make a difference in our present way of thinking and behaving.
For example: What was the intended purpose of God for us of the Salvation message through Christ, that the apostles preached and followed?
Do we find that our way of believing and worshipping is in accordance with this original plan?
Our search in God’s Word can reveal what He led the apostles and believers to believe, and to teach. Read the book of Acts in the New Testament for guidance and inspiration.
As we compare their actions with what we see and hear today, are there differences that actually keep us from effective worship?
We are responsible before the Almighty to check out what His original intentions were, and compare them with how they are presented today.
There may be a need to restore what was lost over the centuries by well-meaning leaders.
Have they watered down the original message of Salvation and the sanctification process?
May we not be afraid to look to God for truth that may be hidden from us, and to seek restoration of our understanding of His way.
When we want to know God, He will help us understand what He expects of us, and how to enter into His Presence with thanksgiving and true worship.
[Google images added]
Let’s pray: Father, I want to know what Your desire is for me today. May I be attentive to Your Word, and what it will teach me. Show me how to worship You effectively. My heart is open before You now, and my hope is in You. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Today’s Bible verse: 2 Timothy 3:16,17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works."
Today’s quote: C. P. Hia – “God’s path for our Christian growth often leads us through difficulties, but they fortify us to withstand life’s future storms. May God help us to be faithful as we seek to boldly live a life that honors Him.”
Our thought today: Our behavior issue is connected to what we believe.
Elaine W. Miller Her book to help marriages succeed, We all Married Idiots, has received over 62 good reviews! If you want to strengthen or save your marriage, check out her blog: www.SplashesofSerenity.com
Tomorrow’s post: #10 The '59 Revival in Ireland Dr. R. A. Torrey
A popular post: Looking Good, Lacking Anointing: Prayer Note #61
No comments:
Post a Comment