The God of Restoration

Let’s get real. We all face difficult seasons in life. The founder of Operation Mobilization, George Verwer, once gave this advice to those who were experiencing tough times, “Get more familiar with the pain, and don’t let it be such a big deal.” We are going to have times of pain in life. We are going to misunderstand and be misunderstood. We will be hurt at times. We will make mistakes. When we nurse our hurts and dwell on our mistakes, we will allow ourselves to be hurt again and again. Although we must face the pain, we cannot dwell on it.

Our God is a God of restoration. Remember, the goal of any problem or conflict or struggle is always restoration. Jesus tells us to “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give us rest” (Matt.11:28). Pray and ask the Lord to help you discern the reasons behind the conflict or struggle and what to do about it. “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you….” (James 1:5).

Healthy believers and leaders will forgive themselves and others so they can move on to the next season of their lives. When we remain in the pain and the hurt of our present season, it will stunt our emotional and spiritual growth. But when we face the pain and deal with the hurts and receive His amazing grace and healing, we will grow and enter another season. It is our choice.