outhern California forestland is no stranger to devastation and destruction. News photos reveal images of blazing tongues of fire lapping away at the natural beauty of the land. After firefighters extinguish the last patch of fire, not much remains other than thin pillars of white smoke and charred branches.

If you have ever experienced a period of devastation such as unemployment, illness, divorce or the death of a loved one, you know how it feels to lose a large part of your life. Whether it damages your self-confidence, sense of security, companionship or physical or emotional strength, you may look at your life and view it in the same way as the cameras depict those forest fires. Barrenness and charred remains seem to dominate the picture. In times like these, we can look to God to begin the restoration process.

In 2007, wildfires destroyed much of the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest. However, I recently read in an article that one company does something unique to help restore the beauty of the forest. A retail catalog and Internet company, Plow & Hearth (www.plowhearth.com), designated that 52,000 tree seedlings be donated to the national forest to replace many of the destroyed trees. The company’s effort to replace those trees reminds me of God’s desire and ability to restore the beauty in our own lives after damage and destruction leave their ugly mark.

Jesus tells us that “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; … .” (John 10:10) While we can expect Satan’s damaging attacks, we can also be assured that the Lord is strong enough to restore us even after the most devastating event. In the same verse, Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

Have you experienced the devastation that often accompanies trials such as divorce, home foreclosure, mental or physical illness or the death of a loved one? If your view of your world is marred by the unsightly remains of trial and tragedy, try setting the zoom back a bit. Look at the big picture, as God sees it, and trust him to plant seeds of restoration to replace the devastation.

Psalm 71:20 - “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; ....”