Restoration and Unity: Embracing God's Purpose Together
Summary
This morning, we gathered to encounter the presence of God together, lifting our voices in worship and opening our hearts to His Word. I was reminded of the importance of spiritual nourishment—how, in our journey, we sometimes need “vitamins” to keep us going, but ultimately, we must return to the “meat” of God’s Word. The young generation is not just the church of tomorrow, but the church of today, and God is moving powerfully among them. We must listen to their voices, encourage them, and recognize that God is already speaking to them in profound ways.
Reflecting on the mirror of God’s Word, we see not only our strengths but also our blemishes and weaknesses. Just as we check our physical appearance in a mirror before leaving home, we must regularly examine our spiritual lives, allowing God to reveal and heal what needs attention. The story from Ecclesiastes about sharpening the axe reminds us that effectiveness in God’s work requires regular renewal and intentional sharpening of our spiritual edge. Busyness and activity, even in ministry, can cause us to lose our cutting edge if we are not careful to stay aligned with God’s purpose and presence.
The narrative of the lost axe head in 2 Kings illustrates the journey of losing and regaining our spiritual sharpness. Sometimes, in our zeal and service, we lose our effectiveness, but the key is to recognize our loss, return to the Master, and allow Him to restore us. The miracle of the floating axe head points us to the cross—where Jesus entered the depths of humanity’s brokenness to bring restoration and new life. God calls us to participate in our own restoration, to stretch out and reclaim what was lost, knowing that everything we have is borrowed from Him and meant for His glory.
Unity is essential—between generations, between leaders and followers, and within the body of Christ. The enemy seeks to divide, but God is preparing an unprecedented move, especially among the young. We must dream bigger, prepare for growth, and be ready to steward what God is about to do. As we allow God to sharpen us, our lives will change the atmosphere around us, manifesting His presence in our families, workplaces, and communities. Let us daily do business with God, seeking His anointing, restoration, and healing, so we are fit for the unique purpose He has assigned to each of us.
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Key Takeaways
- The Mirror of God’s Word Reveals and Restores
Just as we check our physical appearance in a mirror, we must regularly look into the mirror of God’s Word. This spiritual reflection exposes both our strengths and our flaws, inviting us to bring our blemishes to God for gentle but powerful transformation. The process is not about condemnation, but about readiness for Christ’s return and ongoing growth in holiness. [25:36]
- The Danger of Losing Our Cutting Edge in Busyness
It is possible to be busy with good works and still lose our spiritual sharpness. Activity for its own sake can replace true connection with God’s purpose, leaving us ineffective and frustrated. Recognizing when we have lost our edge—and having the humility to return to God for restoration—is essential for fruitful ministry and personal growth. [30:34]
- Restoration Requires Honest Return and Active Participation
When we realize we have lost our effectiveness, God invites us to return to the place where we lost it and participate in our own restoration. The miracle of the floating axe head shows that God will do what only He can do, but He also expects us to stretch out and reclaim what was lost. Restoration is a partnership—God provides the miracle, but we must act in faith and obedience. [37:22]
- Unity and Vision Ignite God’s Blessing
True spiritual growth and effectiveness come when leaders and followers are united in vision and purpose. When the people of God move together in unity, God commands His blessing and prepares the church for unprecedented growth. Capturing and owning the vision is not just for leaders, but for every believer who desires to see God’s kingdom expand. [21:00]
- Everything We Have Is Borrowed for God’s Glory
The story reminds us that our gifts, resources, and even our spiritual “cutting edge” are not our own—they are entrusted to us by God. We are called to be faithful stewards, using what He has given us for the extension of His kingdom. When we walk in this awareness, our lives become conduits for God’s presence, changing the atmosphere wherever we go and drawing others to Christ. [38:33]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[01:10] - The Importance of Spiritual Nourishment
[03:45] - God’s Heart for the Young Generation
[07:20] - Listening to the Voice of God in Children
[10:05] - Revival Among Gen Z
[13:06] - The Parable of the Mirror
[16:30] - Sharpening the Axe: Ecclesiastes 10:10
[19:15] - The Story of Elijah and the Sons of the Prophets
[21:00] - Capturing and Owning the Vision
[25:36] - The Mirror and Dealing with Spiritual Spots
[26:46] - The Enemy’s Strategy: Division
[28:19] - Losing and Regaining the Cutting Edge
[32:20] - Returning to the Master for Restoration
[34:46] - The Cross and the Miracle of Restoration
[38:33] - Living as Stewards of God’s Gifts
[45:15] - Responding to God’s Call and Prayer for Healing
[47:52] - Ministry Time and Final Blessing
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
Ecclesiastes 10:10 (ESV)
> "If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge, he must use more strength, but wisdom helps one to succeed."
2 Kings 6:1-7 (ESV)
> 1 Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, “See, the place where we dwell under your charge is too small for us.
2 Let us go to the Jordan, and each of us get there a log, and let us make a place for us to dwell there.” And he answered, “Go.”
3 Then one of them said, “Be pleased to go with your servants.” And he answered, “I will go.”
4 So he went with them. And when they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees.
5 But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, “Alas, my master! It was borrowed.”
6 Then the man of God said, “Where did it fall?” When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float.
7 And he said, “Take it up.” So he reached out his hand and took it.
James 1:22-25 (ESV)
> 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.
24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.
25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
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### Observation Questions
1. In Ecclesiastes 10:10, what is the difference between using a blunt axe and a sharpened one? What does the verse say is needed for success?
2. In the story from 2 Kings 6:1-7, what problem did the young prophet face while working, and how was it resolved?
3. According to James 1:22-25, what is the danger of only hearing God’s Word but not doing what it says?
4. The sermon compared looking in a physical mirror to looking into the “mirror” of God’s Word. What are some things we might see in this spiritual mirror? [[25:36]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the young prophet in 2 Kings 6 was so distressed about losing the axe head, especially since it was borrowed? What does this teach us about stewardship? [[37:22]]
2. The sermon talked about “losing our cutting edge” in the busyness of serving God. What does it mean to lose your spiritual sharpness, and how can someone recognize when this has happened? [[30:34]]
3. The miracle of the floating axe head was described as pointing to the cross, where Jesus brings restoration. How does this story help us understand God’s desire to restore us when we’ve lost something spiritually? [[34:46]]
4. The sermon emphasized unity between generations and within the church. Why is unity so important for God’s blessing and for seeing growth in the church? [[21:00]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenged us to regularly look into the “mirror” of God’s Word. When was the last time you allowed God to show you something in your life that needed to change? What did you do about it? [[25:36]]
2. Have you ever felt like you lost your “cutting edge” spiritually—maybe through busyness, distraction, or discouragement? What were the signs, and what helped you get it back? [[30:34]]
3. The young prophet had to admit he lost the axe head and ask for help. Is there an area in your life where you need to be honest with God or others about something you’ve lost or need restored? What’s holding you back from doing that? [[32:20]]
4. The sermon said that restoration is a partnership—God does the miracle, but we have to reach out and take hold of it. What is one step you can take this week to participate in your own spiritual renewal? [[37:22]]
5. Everything we have—our gifts, resources, and opportunities—are “borrowed” from God. How does this perspective change the way you use what God has given you? Is there something you need to surrender or use differently for His glory? [[38:33]]
6. The message highlighted the importance of unity and listening to the younger generation. How can you encourage or support someone younger in faith this week? Is there a practical way you can help build unity in your family, workplace, or church? [[21:00]]
7. The sermon ended with a call to “do business with God” daily. What would it look like for you to make space each day for God to sharpen you? Is there a specific time, place, or practice you want to commit to this week? [[45:15]]
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Devotional
Day 1: Sharpening Your Spiritual Edge
Just as a dull axe makes work harder, so too does a dull spiritual life hinder our effectiveness for God. Regularly pausing to examine ourselves in the mirror of God’s Word allows us to see where we have grown dull or weary, and invites us to seek God’s help in sharpening our hearts and minds. This process is not about condemnation, but about readiness—so that when God calls, we are prepared to serve with renewed strength and clarity. Take time today to ask God to reveal any “spots or wrinkles” in your spiritual life, and trust that He will gently and powerfully restore your edge for His purposes. [25:36]
Ecclesiastes 10:10 (ESV)
“If the iron is blunt, and one does not sharpen the edge, he must use more strength, but wisdom helps one to succeed.”
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you sense you’ve grown spiritually dull or weary? How can you intentionally pause and invite God to sharpen you today?
Day 2: The Power of Returning to Where You Lost Your Edge
It is possible to be busy for God and yet lose your spiritual cutting edge in the midst of activity. The story of the lost axe head reminds us that when we realize we’ve lost our effectiveness or passion, the first step is to honestly acknowledge it and return to the place where we lost it. God does not shame us for our weakness; instead, He invites us to come back, to seek His restoration, and to trust Him for the miracle of renewal. Don’t be afraid to admit where you’ve lost your edge—God is ready to restore what has been lost and to rekindle the flame within you. [32:20]
2 Kings 6:5-7 (ESV)
“But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, ‘Alas, my master! It was borrowed.’ Then the man of God said, ‘Where did it fall?’ When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float. And he said, ‘Take it up.’ So he reached out his hand and took it.”
Reflection: Is there a specific moment or situation where you lost your spiritual passion or effectiveness? What would it look like to return to that place with honesty before God today?
Day 3: Embracing and Pursuing the Next Generation
God is moving powerfully among the young generation, and it is vital for the church to pursue, embrace, and empower them. Like Paul who left the crowd to run after the one who had fallen, we are called to leave our comfort zones and invest in the lives of young people—even when they are in a mess. This means listening, encouraging, and believing in God’s purpose for them, trusting that He can bring life and revival through their passion. Ask God to give you a heart of compassion and a willingness to reach out, so that no one is left behind or overlooked in His family. [13:06]
Acts 20:9-10 (ESV)
“And a young man named Eutychus, sitting at the window, sank into a deep sleep as Paul talked still longer. And being overcome by sleep, he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead. But Paul went down and bent over him, and taking him in his arms, said, ‘Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him.’”
Reflection: Who is a young person in your life or church that you can intentionally encourage, listen to, or pursue this week? How can you show them the love and value God sees in them?
Day 4: Unity and Shared Vision Bring God’s Blessing
When God’s people are united in vision and purpose, blessing follows. The story of the sons of the prophets and Elisha shows the power of shared vision—when leaders and followers move together, not apart, and when everyone owns the mission. True unity is not just agreement, but active participation and mutual encouragement. Ask God to help you align your heart with the vision He has given your church and leaders, and to make you a source of unity and encouragement in your community. [21:00]
Psalm 133:1-3 (ESV)
“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.”
Reflection: In what ways can you actively contribute to unity and shared vision in your church or community this week? What step can you take to encourage or support your leaders and fellow believers?
Day 5: God’s Restoration and the Power of the Cross
The miracle of the floating axe head is a picture of the cross—where Jesus entered the depths of our sin and brokenness to bring us back to life. No matter how lost or hopeless we may feel, God’s power to restore is greater. He invites us not only to receive His restoration, but to reach out and take hold of it, stepping forward in faith and gratitude. Remember that everything you have is a gift from God, and He calls you to steward it for His glory. As you allow God to restore your edge, expect Him to use you to change the atmosphere wherever you go. [34:46]
2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV)
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need God’s restoration today? How can you reach out in faith to receive His healing and step forward in gratitude and purpose?
Quotes
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