It is only the spirit-led revival of the church that can cure the present day church the maladies of worldliness, carnality, materialistic egotism and self-centeredness. Let’s long and pray for revival.
Here are 7 steps to revival according to Psalms 85.
1. We must confess our NEED of Revival
The psalmist’s prayer was a confession of need; it was only when he felt the need that he prayed – verse 6. Think of the need for revival:
i. In the outside world. Multitudes are without God and without hope in the world (Ephesians 2:12); most of them are outside the churches, and revival is the only key to this tragic situation.
ii. In the Church. Many churches are worldly, formal and lacking in spiritual power and vitality. Only revival can alter this state of affairs.
iii. In our own lives. How powerless we are! How frequently we fail, our testimony seems ineffective, and how little we pray! Revival is our personal need.
There will never be any revival until we are willing to admit our desperate need for it.
2. We must admit the POSSIBILITY of Revival.
Are we convinced that revival is possible? The psalmist was! Six times in verses 1-3 he reminded God of what He had done. And the fact that God has sent revival in the past demonstrates the possibility of revival coming again.
3. We must recognise the SOURCE of Revival
Where does revival come from? Verse 6 tells us. It comes from God; it is not worked up but sent down, and therefore our eyes must not be upon men, methods, churches or denominations but upon God.
4. We must employ the MEANS for securing Revival.
What is the secret of revival? It is prayer – “Will you not…?” (verse 6) – passionate, believing, urgent prayer. Has there ever been a revival that was not preceded by prayer? Not one I Christian history
5. We must provide the CHANNELS for Revival.
God is wanting to send revival, but He needs channels “us” (verse 6) believers, Christians; we are the channel for “Revival is the outflow of the Spirit of God through the regenerated spirit of man” (John 7:38-39). Thus, if revival is to come, you and I are to be ready to receive the full blessing of God and to be channels through whom that blessing can flow.
6. We must remove the OBSTACLES to Revival.
In verse 6 the psalmist prays for revival – “that your people may rejoice in you.” This indicates fellowship, walking with God, agreement with God (Amos 3:3) – being right with God. The greatest barrier to revival is SIN. Are you right with God? Is there sin in your life? Are you living in disobedience to the Lord? Face up to this!
7. We shall enjoy the RESULTS of Revival.
Read the rest of the psalm, and notice several results which are mentioned: Salvation (7); Peace (8); Glory, demonstration of supernatural powers (9); Harmony (10); Increase (prosperity and abundance) (11); Provision, supernatural supply(12).
Let’s know what thoughts on the subject of Christian faith revival.