Restoration is an interesting project. The building is already there with elements that will stay. Some of what was in the cabin has been removed; there are still a few cabinets to remove before putting in anything new.

There is also a lot happening in the project that absolutely cannot be seen and does not change one thing about the way the cabin currently looks. Electric is being worked on; the well is already there but a pump needs to replace the hand pump currently installed. Countertop is selected, bathroom fixtures chosen, gas fireplace on hold. All of that is finished. It just can’t be seen. Looking at the cabin leads one to believe that nothing has changed. Behind the scenes, everything is changing.

Physical renovation of the cabin closely parallels the renovation I experienced in other areas of my life. It seems I prayed and prayed for change without seeing much difference. As a matter of fact, it seemed the situation grew worse – more tension, stress and disruption. It appeared that everything that existed need to be dismantled in order to put it back together in a healed and orderly way.

As I ponder the scripture from Colossians (see the other posts from this week), my heart breaks for those who are in the stages of restoration where nothing seems to be changing. All the tension still exists – it may even be worsening.

One thing I am sure about and I want to encourage you with today is that God is moving. He is dismantling strongholds, removing barriers, exposing rotten character and bringing new life to dead and decaying spaces. It might not seem like anything is happening, but the details are being arranged. Foundations are being laid, power restored! Pray on, my friend, pray on!

²⁶And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. ²⁷And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. ²⁸And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 

Romans 8:26-28

This song has been catching my attention the last while. I think it will encourage you too!