Restored!

Restored!

Jeremiah 31:25 AMP

[25] For I [fully] satisfy the weary soul, and I replenish every languishing and sorrowful person.”

Context to the verse above will help us in the appreciation of what God had done for His people, the land of Israel. These were His treasured possession; those whom He chose out of many nations in the world at that time, and set His affection upon them. He brought them into a land that was not theirs in the first place, and established them in the land. He gave them victories over their enemies, and no one could withstand or resist them, as long as they were true to the God who had called them to Himself. However, like all things human, there is a need for a constant reminder of the standards of God, so that I do not at any time become entitled or careless, which, if unchecked, can lead a man into  disobedience and rebellion. That is where the chosen people of God found themselves. 

Before we point the finger at Israel, let us take a critical look at ourselves too. Have we met with this God of covenant, who keeps His Word to a thousand generations, even when men everywhere become faithless? Have we come to a personal knowledge of this God who makes clear what the terms of engagement are, and leaves no doubt as to what He expects from all who seek to follow Him? There is a reason why God reveals His mind to us from His Word, so we can learn from the mistakes of other people, and we do not have to repeat the same errors. The nature of God makes it clear that if we do exactly what Israel did, we will also have to experience the same punishment they had from God. However, as Israel also did, when men who have wandered away come back to God, they find Him willing to take them back.

Like the prodigal son, the Father is on the lookout, waiting for us to return, so He can fully restore. He does not do half-measures; as the verse above lays out, He is able to FULLY satisfy the weary soul. This means that I must own up to my state, and seek help from the right source. I must be honest in my assessment of who and where I am, and where I should be headed. I cannot continue in sin, and expect the grace of God to abound. God will not force Himself on anyone, or go against the exercise of my freewill. I must admit my helplessness, and come to Him as I am. For the languishing and sorrowful person, who knows the error of his ways, and seeks the comfort and help of my presence and power, I will replenish such a person, and help him to stand. His help is available; what are you waiting for? God's time of favour is here.