Touching Revival

There are many Believers who have been praying, seeking, and yearning for revival in America for many years. There are signs of revival beginning with the rising of this generation’s response to the gospel. It is common to think of revival as the fruit of evangelism, and it generally is, but many historic revivals involved repentance among existing Believers, including the first great awakening. In scripture there are great movements that produced contrition among Israel and desperate acts of turning away from sin and wickedness. One revival began as the scriptures were found and read in public by Ezra. “…He read it aloud from daybreak till noon as he faced the square before the Water Gate in the presence of the men, women and others who could understand. And all the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law. Ezra praised the Lord, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read…“This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law…The whole company that had returned from exile built temporary shelters and lived in them. From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated it like this. And their joy was very great.” (Nehemiah 8:2-17)

These same acts of devotion have been observed in American revivals. Proclaiming God’s word; heart-felt praise to God; lifting hands responding Amen!; worshipping bowed down; weeping and expressing joy. Lord, change hearts and minds, set captives free, release prisoners from chains of bondage, redeem backsliders with repentance. Some may critique these emotional terms, yet they are evidence of scriptural heart impact. The Spirit transforms the depths of man with effect seen and heard on the outside. (John 3:8) Lord, draw our nation to you as Yeshua is lifted high. Pour out your love in our hearts so the poor and brokenhearted are comforted and encouraged. Root out pride and the fear of man, instilling reverence and the fear of God with humility. Let prayer and praise arise that cannot be quenched. Release spirit-filled prophetic encouragement and faith among your people. Let us see the enemy crushed under our feet, as you destroy his works. (Rom. 16:20)