The People Restored | Grace Abounds Church

Date

2026-01-04

Scripture

Ezra 1; 3

Series

God In the Restoration

God sovereignly stirs the hearts of kings and His people to return from exile and reestablish worship at the altar in Jerusalem.

God sovereignly restores His people by fulfilling His Word, stirring hearts, and directing history to bring about their return from exile.
Restoration begins with renewed worship, as the people rebuild the altar, offer sacrifices, and reestablish God-centered rhythms before rebuilding structures.
A restored people respond in faith-filled obedience and generosity, willingly rising to God’s call and supporting His work together.
Restoration is marked by unity and honest emotion, where joy and grief coexist as the community remembers the past while embracing God’s present work.
The partial restoration in Ezra points to Christ, who brings the final and complete restoration by reconciling God’s people to Himself and dwelling among them forever.

A.C.T.S.

A — Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty (Ezra 1:1): A restored people recognize that God—not circumstances, politics, or power—directs history and fulfills His Word. Trust God’s control even when restoration comes through unexpected means.
C — Committing to Obedient Response (Ezra 1:5–6): Restoration requires willingness to act when God stirs the heart, even when obedience involves risk, sacrifice, or change. Ask, “Where is God stirring me to move in faith?”
T — Treasuring Worship Above Comfort (Ezra 3:1–3): Restored people prioritize worship and obedience before security or success. Worship is not delayed until conditions are ideal.
S — Standing Together in Unity (Ezra 3:1): God restores a community, not just individuals; unity strengthens faithful obedience. Restoration thrives where God’s people stand together “as one.”

Expanded Acronym: R.E.S.T.O.R.E.D.