Real Hope: RestorationSample

True Christlikeness

How many times have you heard or said – ‘I’d do anything to have that relationship restored’? And yet we seldom know what the ‘anything’ is. Interestingly, in this modern, sophisticated, and complex world, Jesus has an answer. The scripture above is a clear and powerful key.

Expanding on that truth further perhaps is the answer to that long-yearned-for restoration by asking God to grant us real, practical and visible ‘Christlikeness’ in our own lives that others may see us and be inspired also to change. True Christlikeness has no shred of religion, judgement or aloofness but has genuine care and humility.

If ‘we’d do anything to see that relationship restored’ why not become the example of what you’re praying others to become? How ironic is it to hear a parent scream at their kids, ‘How many times have I told you not to swear and shout at each other?’

Now, as tempted as we are to see others change and yet reluctant to change ourselves, there still remains another key to give us motivation and sustenance. That is, that the proper focus for restoration is a God-ward act rather than either other-focussed or self-focussed. The Apostle Paul wrote – ‘And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men’ (Colossians 3:23 NKJV).

So our prayer is – ‘Lord, because I am yours and I love you, help me to live in such a way that others are restored to you and to me. In Jesus name, Amen.’

Written by JOHN SCOTT