These verses in the Bible have special meaning for me because I didn't become serious about my relationship with God until I was almost 40 years old. There have been many times when I've lamented over the fact that my children weren't raised in a true Christian home from the time they were born. And I've often regretted that my relationship with my husband and our marriage didn't get off on the right foot because of our lack of devotion to the Lord from the very beginning. If I allowed myself to dwell on things like these, I could come up with a multitude of regrets. Thankfully, God gave me these verses as a personal promise that He would work wonders for me by restoring the blessings I forfeited during all those years I was living for myself instead of Him. And He's been true to His Word. As I live this new life in Christ daily, I am continually amazed by the marvelous works of restoration that the Lord performs for me and my loved ones on a regular basis.

If you'll ask the Lord to reveal Himself to you as the God of Restoration, He will restore things in your life that you thought were lost forever. I've seen Him restore broken families and relationships. I've also seen Him breathe new life into lost dreams and visions. And I've witnessed His miraculous power working in people's lives to restore their health and finances. But I think the things He restores that mean the most to me are our faith, joy, peace and HOPE. The Bible makes it abundantly clear--our God is in the restoration business. And my life and the lives of many others are living proof. If you're a child of the King, you don't have to assume that all the losses that come your way are set in stone. If you'll give the Lord a chance to have the final Word, You'll be amazed at what He can do to make your whole life shiny and new!

Prayer: Lord, today I believe and receive Your precious promises of restoration. I ask that You work wonders in my life by transforming my losses into blessings. Help me to do my part by seeking You daily and putting my trust in You. Thank You for making my whole life bright and beautiful for Your glory!

- J. M. Farro