The Results Of Restoration

“I know I’m forgiven,” he said, “but I don’t have the same feelings I once had. When will they come back?”

While our salvation is established on facts, feelings often play an important role in our relationship with God. Our feelings come from the Holy Spirit, through the grace of God, to let us know the status of our relationship with Him. If there is joy and happiness, gladness and openness in our lives, we know God is with us. When we are uncomfortable in His presence and feel a sense of alienation from Him, we know there is a need to identify the problem, make things right, and restore our relationship with Him as it was. 

When we go to God and experience His restoration, He, as well as others, will see the fruit of His forgiveness in our lives. David sets our example: “Then – after my restoration when I am given a recreated heart – I will teach transgressors Your ways and sinners will turn back to You.” When we receive a recreated heart there is a renewed desire in us to worship and witness for God. “Old things have passed away and all things are new again!” When we restore our relationship with God and once again walk in His ways, we once again will sense the peace and power of His presence in our lives.

Is anyone a more powerful witness to the wonder of God’s grace than someone who has been redeemed from a life of despair they created for themselves by being disobedient to God’s laws? When we recover from our own self-inflicted wounds, we can recognize the pain and hurt in others who are suffering as we once suffered. We become open to their needs and willing to help them because we “have been there, done that, suffered, and recovered.” We can identify with them and share God’s grace through our lives.

And remember one important fact: the more we worship God, the closer we remain in touch with Him.

Prayer: Grant us, Lord, a journey with You that leads us to a life that is dedicated to worshiping You and witnessing to others. May we recognize our need to be with You constantly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You. Psalm 51:12-13

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