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Restoration, like conversion, is the work of God. Who can convert a sinner? God only. Who can restore a backslider? The Almighty alone.

I. THE MEANS GOD EMPLOYS TO BRING THE BACKSLIDER TO REPENTANCE. Anyone who has tried to deal with a backslider knows how difficult it is.

1. He uses memory (Matthew 26:75); of warnings; of promises.

2. He reveals Himself as unchangeable.

3. Makes known His faithfulness.

4. His tenderness (John 6:37).

II. THY WAY OF RETURN.

1. It is a way of humility.

2. Of prayer.

3. Of distinct renunciation of evil.

4. The return must be whole-hearted and unreserved.I would say, however, do not try to work yourself into a certain state of feeling, or, as an old writer has said, "Do not go on spinning repentance, as it were, out of your own bowels, bringing it with you to Christ, instead of coming to Him by faith to receive it from Him." Of the exact nature of your feelings you never can be a proper judge. But this I would urge, look your sin steadily in the face; judge it as in the presence of God; consider it in the light of His warnings and promises, His exhibition of Himself, and His former dealings with you. Ask that you may see it as He sees it, and in all self-loathing and self-renunciation cast yourself afresh at the feet of Jesus.

III. THE JOYOUS EXPERIENCE OF THE RESTORED. Pardon is enjoyed, Life realised. Peace. Zeal and rest in work. And all heightened by contrast.

(W. P. Lockhart.)

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KJV: He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

WEB: He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.