Restore and Renew
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit.
(Psalm 51:10-12 ESV)
As I am getting older, I like to try new products for my face. Yes, I know, it seems vain. However, living in the desert for the past 22 years, I have to be careful what to use. I always make sure that my cream and my make-up have sunscreen build in. Several weeks ago I came across a new product called “Restore & Renew”. It had all the criteria I am looking for in a facial product: for sensitive skin, sunscreen, and revitalization of my aging skin.
Every time I put the product on, I remember another “Restore & Renew”. For my outside I need products, but to be restored and renewed inside, I need Jesus in my life. Without the sacrifice of Jesus, I would not have the option to be restored to God and renewed daily. Jesus gave us the way. And I am very thankful for that.
If we are listing to the world, we can be renewed through self-help books. Many are saying that they are a good person, and that they will be in heaven without the help of Jesus. The sad thing is that many believe the lies they are fed. In a way, I am no different; I believe that certain products will restore and renew my skin.
So often I want to tell people that there is no heaven without Jesus. But how can I share my belief with someone who does not want to hear it? Or they had a bad experience because of judgmental people who preached only hell, but not the love of God? Yes, God is just and requires a sacrifice. People need to understand that Jesus is the perfect sacrifice. Again, I ask, how can I share my belief? I only can share what Jesus has done in my life. I need to step out of the way and let God do the rest.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
and sinners will return to you.
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God,
O God of my salvation,
and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness.
O Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;
you will not be pleased with a burnt offering.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
(Psalm 51:13-17 ESV)
Lord of mercy and grace. I am asking that You are giving me an extra measure of boldness so that others can see that Jesus is the only way to restore and renew. Lord, let Your Holy Spirit work through me so that others may come to the cross. In the precious name of Jesus I pray, Amen.
Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson
Wonderful post.
Oh yes, I could identify with trying beauty products for my skin. Living in Arizona creates a very dry face. 🙂
And how I pray for those who don’t yet know that relationship with Jesus including many I love. I always pray that the veil would be lifted from their eyes. And I also pray that I would live out a life of love in front of them.
Blessings and love,
Debbie
I was in a fire and the skin on my legs I need god to restore it’s been almost 3 yrs no shorts or dresses my skin and legs use to be pretty healthy now so gross I cry everyday. Where is god where’s my miracle from god?