And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Hebrews 12:13
As we wind down yet another year, many of us may resolve to do something new. It may be something educational, recreational, or likely something for our physical health. It could be that we will not, in reality, begin a new path but rather begin again to do what we know has worked for us in the past. We decided to start over. Starting over is often the best way to achieve any goal. We just stop, clear the slate and begin anew. Spiritually this is accomplished in Christ (Rom 6:1-4).
The first thing is, we must realize it is a need and it doesn’t make us less than anyone else to take the steps necessary to begin a new life in Christ. Romans 3:23 states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Our spiritual heroes weren’t perfect. They made mistakes along the way. Noah became drunk (Genesis 9) and Abraham intentionally misled Pharaoh (Genesis 12). Based on just these two examples, it is certainly reasonable to understand we sometimes sin and need to be restored (Gal 6:1-2). Christ was the only one to lead a perfectly sinless life (1 Peter 2:22). I fear we often hold on to our mistakes and beat ourselves up with guilt instead of doing what the Bible prescribes which is seeking forgiveness and letting those things go (James 5:16).
One must conduct a good, honest, and thorough evaluation of themselves to truly start over (2 Cor 13:5-6). We can be deceived in many areas I suppose, and often, we are, but this should never happen spiritually. The deceit that harms the soul typically comes from within (1 Cor 3:18-19, 1 John 1:8). Again, that is why we desire to study and know God’s word, that we can be pleasing to Him (2 Tim 2:15).
In the last year, we have had several come and desire to be restored back to a right relationship with God. It is such a great encouragement to the congregation when this happens and more so the rejoicing of heaven (Luke 15:7,10). Our lives and examples are so very important (Matt. 5:13-16). We touch and influence so many lives. When an individual desires to be restored, they encourage all who see. Personally, I am encouraged every time someone asks for prayer, desiring to start over and be right with God. It is so encouraging to see this level of character in brothers and sisters and reminds all just how important dedication to the goal of heaven truly is.
By Jason Barger