What is revival? Why are people always praying for revival?
How does revival occur? Revival is a movement of holiness in the church brought
on by the Spirit of God. The Spirit will inspire an individual to call out to
God in prayer, or to attend a church service or to respond to the gospel
message shared by one individual to another. The Spirit moves in the hearts of
the people to desire more of God. It is up to us to respond to His gentle
nudging.
Only those devoid of their own agenda and living in
submission to the Spirit will experience revival. Only people who are
spiritually alive can comprehend the truth of Spiritual concepts. Spirit-filled
preachers and teachers explain God’s Word in such a way that everyone can
understand it and receive it with open and repentant hearts. Then, when these
new Believers read the Word, the Spirit quickens it to them as well.
Preaching opens up the Word of God by using Biblical
references to explain each point. Those under conviction by the Holy Spirit may
feel remorse for their ungodly behavior; however, they also feel the joy of
God’s healing deep within their soul. Resentment and anger fall away. An
abiding peace envelops them. We come to appreciate the conviction of our sin,
because it proves that God loves us and is working to perfect us.
Jesus’ work on the cross is bigger than any sin we could
ever commit. He is waiting with open arms to absolve us of the penalty of our
sin, and to fill us with His Spirit; so we will have our own personal, daily
revival. We obey God’s Word rather than the traditions and dictates of men. He
becomes our stronghold in times of trouble. Even in our affliction, we take
refuge in Him, because He delivers us out of them all (Psalm 34:18-19;
37:39-40).
Prayer:
Father God, we wait patiently for You, because we know You
will always turn and hear our cries. You lifted us out the pit of despair, from
the mud and the mire of life in this world. You set our feet on the Rock of
Christ. Many in today’s environment will see the conditions of this world and
put their trust in You for their salvation (Psalm 40:1-3). You will never
disappoint them.
Thought for the Day:
Jesus Christ puts a new song in our heart. – Psalm 40:3