Reading: Psalm 23

Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on the comforting words of Psalm 23. The Lord, our Shepherd, provides for all our needs. In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, He offers us green pastures and still waters - places of rest and rejuvenation. Today, consider the areas of your life where you feel lacking or overwhelmed. How can you invite the Shepherd to lead you to His peace? Remember, with the Lord as your Shepherd, you shall not want. Take time to thank Him for His provision and ask for the faith to trust Him more fully.

Reading: Job 42:10-12, Psalm 23:3

Devotional: God is in the business of restoration. Just as He restored Job's fortunes, He desires to restore our souls. The Hebrew word for "restore" implies a return to the original state. What areas of your life need God's restorative touch? Perhaps it's your passion, your purpose, or your peace of mind. Today, bring these areas before the Lord. Ask Him to cleanse and renew your inner being, returning you to the person He created you to be. Trust that He is leading you in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

Reading: Psalm 23:4, Romans 8:28

Devotional: Life inevitably leads us through valleys - times of darkness, fear, and uncertainty. Yet even in these moments, we are not alone. The Shepherd walks beside us, His rod and staff bringing comfort. Today, reflect on a "valley" you're currently facing or have recently experienced. How can you invite God's presence into this situation? Remember, He works all things together for good for those who love Him. Ask for the courage to say, "I will fear no evil, for You are with me," even when the path seems dark.

Reading: Psalm 23:5, John 10:10

Devotional: Our God is a God of abundance. He doesn't just meet our needs; He overflows our cup. Even in the presence of our enemies - our challenges, fears, and opposition - He prepares a table for us. Today, consider the ways God has blessed you abundantly. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for His provision? Jesus came that we might have life and have it abundantly. Ask God to open your eyes to the feast He has prepared for you, even in unlikely circumstances.

Reading: Psalm 23:6, Ephesians 2:4-7

Devotional: The journey with our Shepherd isn't just for this life - it's for eternity. His goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives, and we will dwell in His house forever. This promise of eternal presence gives us hope and purpose for today. Reflect on how the assurance of God's eternal love impacts your daily life. How can you live today in light of eternity? Ask God to help you experience His presence more fully, knowing that each day brings you closer to your eternal home with Him.

We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends within your HOW Church Community.  Here is a short discussion guide based on Pastor DJ's sermon “I Am REstored”.

Opening Prayer:
Begin with a prayer, asking God to guide your discussion and help everyone apply the lessons from the sermon to their lives.

Key Scripture:  Job 42:10-12 (NIV); Psalm 23 (NKJV)

Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that God is "Lord over the 'Re'." What does this mean to you personally? Can you share an experience where you've seen God restore or renew something in your life?
2. How does the idea of God as our Shepherd (Psalm 23) relate to His ability to restore us?
3. The sermon highlights three key points from Psalm 23: we lack nothing, we shall not fear, and we will dwell with Him. Which of these resonates most with you right now and why?
4. Discuss the concept of God restoring our soul. What areas of your life (appetite, desire, emotion, passion) need restoration?
5. How has God provided for you in the past? How does this affect your trust in Him for future provision?
6. The sermon mentions that "Every feeling of LOSS in this season... is setting you up for double in this next season." How can we maintain hope and faith during times of loss?

Key Takeaways:
1. God specializes in divine reversal, turning negative situations into positive outcomes.
2. As our Shepherd, God provides, comforts, and restores us.
3. God restores our peace, protecting our sanity even in chaotic times.
4. Our soul (life, appetite, desire, emotion, and passion) can be restored by God.
5. God's provision in the past is a promise for His provision in the future.
6. What seems like loss may be God's setup for greater blessings.

Practical Applications:
1. Identify an area in your life where you need God's restoration. Commit to praying specifically for this area daily for the next week.
2. Practice "lying down in green pastures" by setting aside 10 minutes each day for quiet reflection and connection with God.
3. Make a list of ways God has provided for you in the past. Use this as a reminder when facing current challenges.
4. Choose one aspect of your "soul" (life, appetite, desire, emotion, or passion) that needs restoration and take a practical step towards improvement.
5. Look for opportunities to be an instrument of God's restoration in someone else's life this week.

Closing Prayer:
End the session by thanking God for His restorative power and asking for His guidance in applying these lessons throughout the week.