God of Restoration By Margaret Young (New South Wales, Australia)

The Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends; and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.   JOB 42:10 (NRSV)

In January 1995 our family went through a very difficult time. While we were away on holiday, an early morning knock at the door brought news that our car had been vandalized and our house burned almost entirely to the ground. What we had in our suitcases and what we were wearing were now all that we owned. Throughout this crisis, God’s helping hand was immediate. We were able to stay in the church manse which was vacant at the time. It was a comfortable accommodation and was offered free of charge for six months. Then a Christian friend organized a fund-raiser for us, which we accepted with gratitude. Another friend gave us a Bible, which I still cherish. While we lost many precious items, our lives were safe — and we experienced love that we will never forget. We now live on two and a half acres of land in the country; God’s blessings have continued daily, and we have learned that no loss is too big for God to restore.

TODAY'S PRAYER   We thank you, God, for always watching over us — especially in our struggles. Amen.   * * *     TODAY'S READING   Philippians 4:10-13         THOUGHT FOR THE DAY   I am assured of God’s love, even in the most difficult circumstances.         PRAYER FOCUS   Those who have lost their homes