A PRAYER FOR REVIVAL!

A PRAYER FOR REVIVAL!

Ps 85:6

6 Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?

           It seems curious to me that large churches do not seem to have revivals anymore! Is it only smaller congregations that feel the need for a fresh touch from Heaven? Perhaps a closer look will give us some insight.

           A cry for revival comes from the heart of one who recognizes within themselves a brittle heart and a stale spirit. He senses something is amiss and longs for refreshment. He is pretty sure that he is part of the problem and knows that correction might be part of the process. He dreads the encounter but the longing is stronger than the dread.

           Many churches begin with what is now referred to as “worship!” At the sound of the music, the crowd is encouraged to set aside their coffee and begin clapping their hands. The God whose advice is not heeded and whose clear commands are not obeyed is suddenly “worshipped.” That is very curious to me.

           In our text, the cry is also national and therefore political. Warren W. Wiersbe said: “The Hebrew word shuv basically means "to turn or return," and it is used in verse 1 ("brought back"), verses 3, 4, and 8 ("turn"), and verse 6 ("again"). When we turn back to God, repent, and confess our sins, He turns back to us and restores us.”

Dear Lord, my brittle heart and my stale spirit cries out for revival today. Come and refresh me even if it means I must endure correction. AMEN