“Investing in Your Own Restoration and Healing”
My own definition for self-investment (faith-action) is to learn about the GOD we declare we love and serve.
My favorite statement I make, when referencing the Bridges to the Community environment is, “We must be willing to invest in our own restoration and healing. You must invest in yourself, as we will do the same for you.”
How would or does an individual “Invest in his/her own restoration”? Let us begin with some things that the Word of GOD offers to us. Scripture teaches that restoration is GOD’s work, but participation is ours. …another way to say that is, “It is on us to get the ball rolling.” That ball is heavy!
Throughout the Bible, the LORD GOD restored people spiritually, emotionally, and relationally—but His people are invited to cooperate with that work.
Since you are reading this, that means you.
I am not certain if this will be clear to all who are here, but I do believe it will be Biblically grounded. As you complete this segment, I hope that it will provide an additional way to think about investing in your own whole-body wholeness. We must be intentional about this pursuit via repentance & reorientation.
If you are distant from the Lord, that reason could vary from personal neglect or numerous outside influences. …often spiritual (people as the main source).
Let’s begin with our restoration act of turning back toward GOD—through His Son, Jesus.
Here are some Scriptures to add to your personal research and understanding:
“Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord. — Malachi 3:7
“Repent… that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” — Acts 3:19
Maybe you are saying to yourself, “How this is an investment?” Repentance (is personal) and it is ‘you’ choosing a new direction. YOU must decide to turn (teshuvah), and GOD begins the rebuilding.
Many “Jesus-loving” people don’t know Him very well. They don’t read their 5 or so Bibles they have, or they don’t do research for understanding of what the Scriptures say about How He wants them to live. You can’t just trust the “stronger” people in your life, YouTube or the pastor. The Father sent the Holy Spirit (on behalf of Yeshua) to teach and help us. That means, we can ask questions about what we have read, and/or what someone has said about It.
Planting GOD’s Word deeply in our life assists you and I with “keeping our minds on Him…” –Isaiah 26:3
Renewal, healing and restoration begin with the Seeds GOD plants, but growth happens only when those Seeds take root. Scripture consistently shows that the Word of GOD is not meant to sit on the surface of our lives—it's meant to sink deeply (to germinate), reshape us, and produce fruit that lasts.
Restoration is sustained by GOD’s Truth replacing destructive patterns we currently have.
Here are some Scriptures that will add to your search for His Words, Ways and the understanding of them:
“He restores my soul; He leads me…” — Psalm 23:3
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
“Your Word healed me.” — Psalm 107:20
Ohhh…the investment IS effort! Diligent investment. You invest by reading, studying, and meditating on Scripture. This is the “renewing” process that shifts thinking, identity, and overall personal behavior.
Maybe you are not resting in Him. If not, get this as part of your weekly hard work. Rest, keep (guard) Sabbath, and cease from striving. Biblical restoration includes rest as a spiritual discipline.
Yep, it is that time. I will give you some references to get you started:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
Sabbath Command: Exodus 20:8–11 (there are many more)
Jesus: “Come to Me… and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
When you and I choose to stop overworking, overthinking, and overperforming, GOD will engage in ways we have never experienced. We need to come to the realization that rest requires trust in GOD’s provision.
What will this COST you? Genuine rebuilding means facing brokenness. Yes. …of course we are referencing our own brokenness. To do that, one must engage with honesty and allow GOD, our Healer, to cure wounds—not hide them. We are very good at hiding and lying about how we are doing and who we are while doing them.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3
“Confess your sins to one another… that you may be healed.” — James 5:16
Who are you trying to please?
Most of the Scripture that references healing is contextually about the spirit or soul (mind, will and emotions). If we maintain that GOD is focused on the physical first and foremost, we have already missed the boat that has its course set for the destination of restoration, healing and renewal. THAT is an investment!
NOTE: You invest by showing up for counseling, prayer, or accountability in confessing our sins to a trusted individual. THAT is choosing healing over hiding. We MUST do that.
NOTE: Rebuild your life with godly habits and “train yourself for godliness.” — 1 Timothy 4:7
Biblical restoration is never a solo project. Sooo… Seek community, not Isolation. You invest by building healthy relationships, receiving support, and allowing people to walk with you. The “Bridges to the Community” environment has our focus on health. The kind of health that can sustain us should the physical fail us.
Hare are a few more Scriptures various avenues to investment:
“Whoever hears My words and does them is like a wise man who built his house on rock.” — Matthew 7:24
“Above all else, guard your heart.” — Proverbs 4:23
“Do not give the devil a foothold.” — Ephesians 4:27
Biblically, you invest in your own restoration by participating in what GOD is already willing and eager to restore.
REMINDER: GOD alone restores — but He does so with your cooperation, not without it. Your actions don’t “help GOD” because He needs help; your actions position you for Him to do what only He can do.