The American Heritage Dictionary defines revival as the act of reviving or the condition of being revived. It also defines revive as the act of bringing back to life or consciousness; to impart new health, vigor or spirit to.
There are many points in our personal and corporate lives that we sense the desperate need to be renewed, brought back to a fresh consciousness of God, gain new Life, be restored to spiritual health, vigor and spirit or enthusiasm. We hear the psalmist express this when he describes his own hunger and thirst for God and righteousness. We hear his desperation and pain, his weakness, brokeness, contriteness and humility of heart. These quailies and virtues are essential elements that God looks for in His children that compel Him to move in their behalf to satisfy the expressed longing of their hearts.
The scriptures declare to us:
God will revive the spirit of the humble - Is. 57:15a
God will revive the heart of the contrite ones - Is. 57:15b
Though we walk in the midst of trouble, He will revive me - Ps. 138:7
Wilt Thou not restore, forgive, cover, show favor and revive us again that Thy people may rejoice in Thee? Ps. 85:1-7
As Paul Billheimer states in his book "Don't Waste Your Sorrows", allow times of difficulty to become the platform from which we cry out to God and appeal to His mercy and unfailing love to display His Glory and provide once again opportunity for His children to rejoice in Him and proclaim His mighty acts. Join me in crying out to Him for revival. I just wanted you to know.
Father God, Revive Us Again!
Mitch
