Works of art are restored or brought back to their original beauty through painstaking labor of removing layers of filth accumulated over long periods of time, to their original beauty.

Things only need restoration when they have been changed from their original purpose and have become worn, tarnished or damaged.

When we realize that something important to us has been changed, and we don't want it to continue in that condition, we have the choice of making a change.

Will we renew what used to be, if at all possible, or maintain the present condition, preventing further damage?

The truth of the matter is, what we conceive to be an original in any subject at hand, may either be better in its present conditon, or may have lost what was originally intended.

Upon close examination do we see that there is something that can be done to bring back the intended value of the subject in question, or are we content to leave well enough alone?

When certain things seem to have lost their value over time through wear, bad handling, or determined harm, we may have the obligaiton to take things in hand, to bring a restoration for its improvement and increased value.

Whether it is in business, personal life, or an object, the need may be great, and we'll need to examine things carefully for the intended purpose in its begining.

If it is personal, has it made relations improve, or worsen?

Marriages will sometime need some restoration, too.

If they aren't attended to on a regular, daily basis with determined effort, a serious deterioration can take place.

Both partners are responsible to keep their love and commitment strong for one another.

Everyone concerned, especially the children are affected. They'll need to witness a healthy marriage, if they are to know how to have one.

What about one's beliefs? Have there been significant changes that have taken us away from truths originally intended for us?

Do we know what was passed on to us to be truth, or do we sense there may have been significant changes?

Are we seeing what God intended in the beginning? Are we willing to do some research on this important subject?

Will what we believe draw us closer to God, or become a hindrance in finding Him in times we need His help and guidance?

What has been changed can make a difference in our present way of thinking and behavior.

For example: What was the intended purpose of God and those who began the Salvation message through Christ?

Do we find that our way of believing and worshipping is in accordance with the original plan?

Our searching of God's Word can reveal what He led the original apostles and believers to believe, and to do.

As we compare their actions with what we see and hear today, are there diffenences that actually keep us from effective worship?

We are responsible before the Almighty to check out what His original intentions were, and compare them with how they are presented today.

There may be a need to restore what was lost over the centuries by well-meaning leaders.

Have they watered down the original message of Salvation and the sanctification process?

May we not be afraid  to look to God for truth that may be hidden from us, and to seek restoration of our understanding of His way.

When we want to know God, He will help us understand what He expects of us, and how to enter ino His Presence with thanksgiving and true worship.