Hearing His Voice #182

Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes.

Isaiah 58:12

FROM THE HEART OF GOD

“Most people know Me as a personal God, the God of the individual. Some understand My love for the church, the bride I am setting apart for Myself. But few understand My love for cities and nations. They see My love for individuals in cities and nations, but they don’t see My zeal for the social structures and community life of all people, not just those who believe in Me. My desire is for you to have safe places to live, healthy and whole families, balanced lifestyles, and peace on every side. I want the world to be a place of blessing.

“That’s how I originally created the world to be. Many have thought that I’m simply waiting for this present world to pass away so I can take you to heaven to experience My Kingdom forever. But have you noticed how many times I’ve urged you to repair your life on earth? Do you remember the prayer My Son taught you about My Kingdom coming on earth? Have I not instructed you to pray for people in places of authority so that life might go well for you on earth? I’ve never said, ‘Ignore the world because I’m soon taking you out of there,’ yet so many of My people behave as if I have. I don’t just redeem; I restore. Few have understood how concerned I am for your well-being.

“You will not hear Me directing you to isolate yourself from the world. I will lead you not into hiding, but into civic organizations, run-down neighborhoods, schools, recreation programs, broken families, community clubs and activities, and more. If I’m going to bless the world through you, you will have to go into the world. There is no other way. You are called to restore, rebuild, and let My blessings flow.”

Lord, I don’t know how to rebuild my city—or even how to bless my own neighborhood. Give me ideas. Show me opportunities. Let me be an instrument of restoration in the world around me.