Sometimes, the land seems dry and the desert too wide. We ask ourselves how far or how long do we still have to walk to find the first spot of water to be strengthened, to survive or just remain standing. My brother, my sister, hear the Lord saying to you that what looks like destruction is actually an opportunity for Him to restore you: today’s passage says this: “Those who survive the coming d…estruction will find blessings even in the barren land… Again you will plant your vineyards on the mountains of Samaria and eat from your own gardens there” (verses 2 and 5).
My friend, this promise of restoration is for all who trust God. Our Lord reaches towards us, His children, with deep and everlasting love because He is eager to do the best for us if only we would let Him. One thing is certain, if you cannot bear seeing your child or a child you love suffering, how much more God who is love? The difference with children is that, when they suffer, they go to their parents without reserve… But, most believers, because they are adults find it hard to humble and behave as children before the Father.
My friend, listen to these powerful words from the Lord Jesus: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Believing in God is not enough to trigger His restoring action. Job shows us one way: “When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before!” (Job 42:10). We ought to truly trust in Him at all times, despite the seasons of our lives, like children. Have you never seen children playing naked around like king David danced naked around. Are we then surprised that God called Him a man after His own heart? Don’t get me wrong, I am not advocating physical nakedness here, but let’s get deeper and understand the true meaning of nakedness: being without addition, concealment, disguise or embellishment before God!. He is the master of times and circumstances… He knows all about us, therefore another way to our restoration is to trust the only one who can bring restoration where something is broken or destroyed because He Himself experienced it on the Cross… but for that to happen, we need to come to Him as a child who comes to a loving parent, naked! Stay blessed in Jesus’ name.