“So I will restore to you the years…” (Joel 2:25 NKJ).
Part Two
In our last lesson we defined the word restore as “bringing back that which had been missing in order to complete an original purpose and calling.” Our God promises us restoration in many areas of our lives:
1) Restored physical soundness (Jer. 30:17): We are told by doctors that some ailments leave people with no hope of recovery. This word from the Lord says that lost health can be regained.
2) Restored happiness (Ps. 51:12): Upon confession of wrongdoing and receipt of God’s forgiveness, joy returns to the soul. If you have lost your joy, search your heart to see if there is something you need to confess and repent of.
3) Restored paths (Isa. 58:12): During times of spiritual declension, the path of service is not always easily discerned. When revival comes, the path leading home to the Father’s house is always clear.
4) Restored life (Ruth 4:15): Here is a promise of rejuvenation despite the aging process. The Lord promises us that our youth shall be renewed like the eagle’s (Ps. 103:5).
We begin our journey of faith with a fresh vision, a great deal of courage, a burning desire, and a devoted willingness to go the distance.
As time passes, a devourer comes along to consume these blessings of God. If we do not know the principles of spiritual warfare, we may give ground and lose some of these precious gifts.
This verse is a promise of compensation and reward. Whatever has been lost is going to be restored – to our church, our family, and our individual lives!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.