The God Who Restores Lost Years Series

THE GOD WHO RESTORES LOST YEARS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Joel 2:25-27

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 61:7; Job 42:10-12; Jeremiah 30:17; Psalm 126:1-6; Zechariah 9:12

INTRODUCTION:

There are seasons in life when it seems as though everything valuable has been lost—time, opportunities, relationships, or resources. Many people carry regrets and pain from the years the enemy has devoured. But our God is a God of restoration. He does not just restore what was lost—He multiplies it and brings glory out of shame.

Restoration is one of the covenant blessings of God's children. The Lord made a powerful promise in Joel 2:25: “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten...” This speaks not just of material things, but of time, honour, joy, and purpose. No matter how damaged a person’s past may be, God can repair and renew their future.

Restoration does not happen in a vacuum. It is often tied to repentance, obedience, and divine intervention. When God steps into a life, everything begins to realign with divine purpose. The lost years will not only be restored, they will be redeemed for greater glory.

1. GOD SPECIALISES IN RESTORING LOST YEARS

God has the unique ability to redeem time and reverse damage caused by the enemy or personal mistakes.

a) God can restore what seems permanently lost (Joel 2:25)

Even years wasted in sin, pain, or foolishness can be turned around for good when we return to God.

b) God is not limited by time or seasons (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

He makes all things beautiful in His time, even what was once broken or wasted.

c) Divine restoration includes honour and glory (Isaiah 61:7)

Instead of shame, His people shall receive a double portion and everlasting joy.

d) Restoration brings supernatural joy and testimonies (Psalm 126:1-2)

When the Lord turns captivity, joy replaces sorrow, and mouths are filled with laughter.

Biblical Example: Job – After losing everything, Job received double what he had before (Job 42:10-12)

2. GOD’S RESTORATION IS COMPLETE AND MULTIDIMENSIONAL

God does not just patch things up—He fully restores with increase and wholeness.

a) God restores health and healing (Jeremiah 30:17)

He brings back strength to the sick and hope to the broken-hearted.

b) God restores relationships and broken homes (Malachi 4:6)

He can turn the hearts of family members back to each other.

c) God restores purpose and vision (Habakkuk 2:2-3)

Delayed dreams can come alive again with divine timing and direction.

d) God restores spiritual fire and passion (Psalm 51:10-12)

David prayed for a restored spirit and joy in God's presence.

Biblical Example: Peter – After denying Christ, he was restored and empowered to lead (John 21:15-17)

3. RESTORATION COMES THROUGH REPENTANCE AND OBEDIENCE

Turning to God wholeheartedly opens the door for divine restoration.

a) Repentance attracts God’s mercy and help (2 Chronicles 7:14)

When we humble ourselves and turn from our ways, He heals and restores.

b) Obedience to divine instruction provokes restoration (Deuteronomy 30:2-3)

God promised to return His people from captivity when they obey Him.

c) Seeking God with all your heart brings restoration (Jeremiah 29:13-14)

He promised that those who seek Him will find Him and recover all.

d) Restoration begins when we forsake sin (Acts 3:19-20)

Times of refreshing follow true repentance.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son – He repented and was restored to sonship (Luke 15:20-24)

4. GOD’S RESTORATION BRINGS A NEW BEGINNING

When God restores, He does not take you back to where you were—He moves you forward.

a) Restoration leads to promotion and honour (Genesis 41:39-41)

Joseph moved from the prison to the palace as part of his divine restoration.

b) God restores destiny after seasons of delay (Romans 8:28)

He causes all things to work together for our good.

c) God gives a fresh start with divine favour (Isaiah 43:18-19)

He makes a way in the wilderness and rivers in dry places.

d) Restoration brings you into alignment with divine timing (1 Peter 5:10)

After you’ve suffered a while, God perfects, establishes, and settles you.

Biblical Example: Naomi – Though she lost everything, God restored joy through Ruth (Ruth 4:13-17)

5. GOD’S RESTORATION IS A TESTIMONY TO OTHERS

When God restores you, your life becomes a testimony that brings Him glory.

a) People will see and fear the Lord (Psalm 40:3)

Restoration is a visible display of God’s goodness and faithfulness.

b) Your testimony encourages others to trust God (Revelation 12:11)

The story of your restoration can bring healing to many.

c) Restoration glorifies the name of the Lord (Isaiah 60:1-3)

His light shines through your restored life and draws nations.

d) Your past mess becomes a message (2 Corinthians 5:17)

In Christ, all things are made new and purposeful.

Biblical Example: The man at the Beautiful Gate – He was healed and leaped in praise (Acts 3:1-10)