Restored and Renewed

Retreat Theme: “Restored & Renewed”

Scripture:

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”
— 1 Peter 5:10 (NIV)

Spiritual Lesson: God is in the Restoration Business

Overview:
Just like the worn furniture pieces we’re working on today, we all carry signs of wear from life—scratches from past hurts, faded places from feeling unseen, and even broken joints where something in us just hasn’t held up over time.

But in the hands of a loving restorer, those flaws aren’t discarded—they’re the starting point.

As we sand, polish, paint, and care for these pieces today, may it be a reflection of what God is always doing in us:

  • Sanding down what no longer serves us—fear, guilt, resentment

  • Stripping away old beliefs that keep us from walking in grace

  • Filling in the gaps where we’ve felt lacking

  • Strengthening our structure so we can stand in truth

  • Refinishing us with new purpose, color, and light

This restoration is not about making us “look new” for appearance’s sake—it’s about bringing out the beauty and purpose we were always meant to show, now with even more meaning.

Reflection Prompt (Journal or Group Discussion):

  • What “worn” area of your life is God gently working on?

  • Are there parts of you that need to be surrendered to His restoring hands?

  • What would your life look like if you truly believed you were being restored daily?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, just like these pieces before us, we come into Your presence with our wear and tear, trusting You as our Master Restorer. Smooth away the rough edges in our hearts. Fill us with new purpose. Paint our lives with the color of Your Spirit, so we may shine with Your love wherever we go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Furniture Pieces to Use (Symbolic & Practical)

Each piece can represent a part of our spiritual and emotional journey:

  1. Old Wooden Chairs

    • Symbol of support and rest. Let God restore the places you rest your mind, body, and spirit.

    • Before & After Display: Participants can reflect on what “rest” means in their life.

  2. Side Tables or Nightstands

    • Symbol of what we keep close. What are we spiritually “keeping by our bedside”?

    • Prompt: Are there items/thoughts you need to replace with truth and peace?

  3. Vanity Tables or Mirrors

    • Symbol of identity. Sanding down self-image and repainting it with truth.

    • Mirror Reflection Prompt: What do you see in yourself now? What does God see?

  4. Storage Chests or Trunks

    • Symbol of what we carry. Time to clean out old burdens and repurpose what remains.

    • Use during a “Letting Go” journaling moment.

  5. Bookshelves

    • Symbol of what we fill our minds with. New season, new wisdom.

    • Use a shared bookshelf to “stock” encouraging devotionals

🌿 Craft Activity: “Restoration in His Hands”

🪑 Suggested Small Furniture Pieces (Easy to Manage, Symbolic)

  1. Wooden Tray – Symbol of service and hospitality
    “Lord, restore the heart that serves with joy.”

  2. Footstool – Symbol of humility and rest
    “Lord, teach me to sit at Your feet and be still.”

  3. Wooden Chair or Step Stool – Symbol of strength and support
    “Lord, make me steady and reliable for others to lean on.”

  4. Keepsake Box or Jewelry Drawer – Symbol of treasures within
    “Lord, restore my sense of worth and the value You’ve placed in me.”

  5. Mirror Frame – Symbol of identity and reflection
    “Lord, help me see myself through Your eyes.”

🧰 Supplies You’ll Need

  • Sandpaper (medium & fine grit)

  • Wood filler (optional)

  • Small paintbrushes or foam brushes

  • Chalk paint or low-VOC paints (easy, fast-drying, forgiving)

  • Wood stain (optional)

  • Sealer (matte or gloss)

  • Clean cloths/rags

  • Aprons/smocks

  • Paper tags with reflection questions or scripture cards

✨ Instructions with Spiritual Tie-Ins

1. Cleaning the Surface (Prep):
Wipe down the piece.
🕊️ Ask: What needs to be cleaned out of my heart to make space for God to work?

2. Sanding (Letting Go):
Smooth the surface and remove the old finish.
🕊️ Ask: What layers of pain, pride, or pressure am I ready to surrender to God?

3. Repair (Filling the Cracks):
Use wood filler where needed and let it dry.
🕊️ Ask: Where in my life do I need healing or restoration?

4. Painting or Staining (New Identity):
Add fresh color or stain to bring new life.
🕊️ Ask: How is God reshaping the way I see myself and the world?

5. Sealing (Sealed by Grace):
Apply a protective coat to preserve the beauty.
🕊️ Ask: What truths do I need to seal in my spirit today?

6. Tag or Inscribe (Remembrance):
Attach a scripture card, blessing, or your name/date to the piece.
🕊️ Declare: I am a work in progress, made beautiful in His time.

💌 Optional Add-ons:

  • Blessing Station: Guests write a word or blessing on a card and tie it to someone else's piece anonymously.

  • Scripture Jar: Pull a random verse to reflect on while crafting.

  • Worship Background Music: Soft, reflective worship songs while women work.

  • Testimony Time: Invite a few women to share personal stories of “restoration.”