Double Restoration - Friday Praise & Pray (for others) October 29, 2021

So many of us have been through things that make it hard to get excited about anything. We've seen enough death and disaster that cause us to expect the worst from others and every situation.

However, God is about the promises. Promises of blessings and restoration. In fact, Psalm 126 begins with a breakdown of how people react in such a season -

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. 2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” 3 The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.*

The Psalmist wrote of laughter, of joy, and even other nations speaking about the great things God did for His people. And of course, the Israelites also proclaimed that the Lord had done wonderful things for them.

We've got to shake off the pessimism (no matter how practical it may seem) and prepare for a new season of restoration from the Lord. We have to start thanking Him for the new things He's doing in our lives to turn things around for us (Isaiah 43:19). Often, these 'new moves' are imperceptible but that doesn't change the fact they are there, percolating just under our radar. For the Lord wants the best for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11). He's heard our cries and answered our prayers (1 John 5:14-15). We need to hold on in faith that His restoration will become tangible in our lives and not give up our hope.

Indeed we are told in Zechariah 9:12 - Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you. See? Those who hope in the Lord can expect a double restoration! That's in addition to the strength He gives to those who wait on Him as we learned on Tuesday.

Let us trust in the God "who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us," (Ephesians 3:20) and expect a double restoration for all that we've lost. Let us take an hour during today's Praise & Pray at 12 Noon EST to honor Him with our praises and prayers for others. It will require we put our fears and worries aside to focus on His greatness. May the Lord help us all to do just that to His glory and by His grace, IJMN, Amen.

See you then and God bless! Oh and get excited!

* Note - as you read this verse, replace the word 'Zion' with your own name. Make this promise yours.