Rarely do I have a word for the year. This year is a little different. I was reading a book last month, and the word RESTORATION jumped out at me. It resonated deeply with with me. So I decided to do a little processing.
Why this word? – I started looking at Scripture verses. The Holy Spirit quickly highlighted 1 Peter 5:10.
And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
I love so much about this verse! It starts with suffering and ends with the joy of restoration! Directly in the middle, not to be overlooked, is God’s grace and strength that sustains us through the journey from suffering to restoration. I wrote the verse out and am using it as a book mark so that I get to see it every day!
Why now? – Why does the Lord want me to focus on restoration now? I don’t fully have that one figured out, but I do have a few thoughts. Maybe it’s because it’s 2020 and a new decade is dawning. Or maybe it’s that I’m turning 35 this year. Or that I have been single for the last 7 years. Or it might just be that the Lord decided now was a good time, or this is a first step in something greater for His glory.
What does He want to restore? – A few weeks after the discover of my “word,” the Lord highlighted two things that He had already restored this year.
January brought restoration of a relationship. I have been desiring healing in this relationship for years. I honestly never thought it would happen. I can’t explain this restoration other than by the grace of God. I’m so thankful for this healing that has been coming the last 10 years!
February brought restoration of some financial struggles. I’d been stressing about how to make some financial decisions wisely, and the Lord unexpectedly provided insights and a change that brought clarity.
Now – I’m excited to see what the Lord is going to do the rest of this year! If He brings any more restoration, I’ll try and add a note at the end. May you see and share how God is bringing restoration to your own life!
Or, when placed in our Master’s hands, the Master potter can be entrusted to take that potsherd, shatter it just right, and then use it in the remolding of me to make me stronger and even more beautiful. – Lisa Terkeurst
Adventures of a Single Pretzel 