May 23: The Restoration of the Soil

May 23: The Restoration of the Soil

Scripture: "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten... and you shall eat in plenty and be satisfied." — Joel 2:25-26

The "Locusts" represent the "Plan A" that was "devoured" by "sin," "mistakes," and "consequences." We all have "lost years"—years spent in "rebellion," "fear," or "fruitless labor." But God’s "Plan B" is the "Restoration of the Years." He can "restore" the "soil" of our lives so that it "yields a harvest" again.

The "Truth of Restoration" is that God is "not limited by time." He can "compress" the "growth of a decade" into a "single season of grace." His "Plan B" is to "make up for lost time" by "pouring out His Spirit" in a "Special Way." He "satisfies" our "hunger" with the "abundance of His Love."

"Spiritual Soil" needs "Tending." We must "repent" (turn back) and "yield" to the "Rain of the Spirit." By "inviting the Latter Rain" into our lives, we are "preparing the ground" for the "Final Harvest." This is the "Plan B" of "Late-Season Multiplication."

Don't "mourn" over the "years the locusts have eaten" today. Don't let "regret" keep you from "planting" now. Trust that God can "restore" what was "lost." Yield your "soil" to Him, and expect a "harvest of plenty." Your "Plan B" fruit will be "sweet and satisfying."

Reflection Questions:
What "lost years" am I still "regretting" today?
How can I "prepare my soil" for God's "Restoration" today?
Do I believe that the "Latter Rain" is available for my "current season"?

Source: Inspired by The Great Controversy, Ellen G. White; "Restoration" sermon by Doug Batchelor.