"After The Storms"

 Reflections4Life™ September 25, 2022

“After the Storms”

“Then they will rebuild the ancient ruins, they will raise up and restore the former desolations; And they will renew the ruined cities, The desolations (deserted settlements) of many generations.” Isaiah 61:4

Scripture Contemplations: Hebrews 10; Nehemiah 4; Ezra 3; Isaiah 49; Jeremiah 33:7; Acts 15:16

Many say the Lord is soon to come again. They observe nature’s seeming wrath against humanity and concur that the evil of man has brought all of this on. Though I see this as a sign of the times and Christ soon returns; I also see it as a time to rebuild and restore that, which has been broken in the land. To restore kindness, love, mercy, peace, community, unity, and faith in God. God is granting His creation, the opportunity to see the harvest before them. For those who know God, to go out into the fields and start working and help to restore, rebuild, and ignite others’ faith at this time in their lives, as He restores and rebuilds ours.

I decree that this week’s Reflections will be a continued source of encouragement and inspiration for your heart, mind, and soul. God is rebuilding and restoring what was lost during the storms of our lives. Do not continue to look at what was lost or destroyed but rejoice that you are still here and God is blessing you to start over. Though there may be some tough times, remember that you are not alone. God is with you through it all. Trust Him and let your faith be restored.

The tests and trials that we are facing in our lives can be equivalent to the hurricanes and earthquakes that ravish this earth. The devastation, the heartache, the loss; all of it so great and overwhelming. Yet, here we are, alive and able to move forward to another day when so many others have lost their lives. People are grieving and mourning. Though our hearts are grieving also and are heavy and we may feel overwhelmed and despondent; know that God is capable of restoring you.

Some of us may ask, how often do we have to start over? How many times do we have to lose before we start winning? You are alive and blessed with life and opportunities. It may not be everything you desire it to be right now, but you have the ability to start over; to change the ending of your story, starting right now.

Here is what I know for certain, Beloveds: Throughout our life's journey, we may find ourselves having to start over again. For some, it may happen several times before they are exactly where they desire to be. Sometimes we have to make an assertive decision completely to start over from a fresh perspective, a clean slate, rebuilding who we are.

That is exactly what God does for us—if we would listen and accept His will—is give us a fresh start, a brand new beginning; rebuilding us from brokenness and the devastation of life’s storms. We cannot change the past. However, we can change what happens next; transforming the ending of our stories, having it work in our favor.

I, myself, am at a crossroads in my own life at this moment; one that I am finding that God has been preparing me for all along. In keeping it honest with you, it is not the best of feelings. My faith feels as though it has been used up and stretched beyond its capacity. Yet, as the circumstances stand, in my heart I know emphatically that it does not change nor stop the blessings, favor, mercies, and grace of God for and in my life. I am coming out of this stronger than ever and more determined. Oh! Beloveds, I am just getting started! Ruthe 2.0.

When God is on your side, you never lose, you always win. Do not be afraid to begin again or start over—not when God is on your side. As long as you have breath in your body, it is not too late for you to have and live the life that God has promised you. No matter how broken and bruised you are. God can and will rebuild from nothing. He will take the ruins of the storms of our lives and build something beautiful and everlasting. All we have to do is believe and tell God, yes!

My Beloveds, may the spirit of peace and prosperity finds permanent rest in your lives. I decree that every good thing that God has ordained for your life will become evident to you. NOTHING is impossible for God. Love yourself enough to know when you deserve and warrant more than what you have been getting or received. Through the storms of life let your soul and spirit be anchored to Christ. Say Yes to God, and He will take care of the rest! You are blessed. Now go…and be a blessing!

©2022. Ruthe McDonald. All Rights Reserved.