Have you ever wondered what the bible says about revival?
Revivals often come unexpectedly, when people lighten their sorrows and joys of life and seek hope in their faith.
In this article, we’re taking a closer look at what the bible says about revival and how it can assist us in times of turmoil.
The bible says that revival begins with a spiritual renewal, the recognition of the need for conversion, and coming to God in humility.
The bible also offers some concrete steps for spiritual revival, including intense fasting and prayer, scripture reading, writing and studying, studying, reclaiming the commandments of God, and reuniting with our fellow man.
The bible also encourages us to be proactive in seeking revival. We are told to cry out to God and to turn away from sin.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).
The bible also offers tangible hope for those who seek revival, and reminds us that God will never abandon us in our struggles.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope” (1 Peter 1:3).
The bible teaches us that revival is often a catalyst for positive change, and that the people who experience it will be blessed for their obedience.
“The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame” (Isaiah 58:11).
Finally, the bible encourages us to remember that our spiritual revival should not be a solitary endeavor, but instead a communal effort.
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Preparing the Heart for Revival
In order to prepare for spiritual renewal, we must be willing to open our hearts to God.
The bible exhorts us to repent of sin, to turn away from wickedness, and to bound ourselves with the covenant of faith.
“Repent then and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19).
The bible also encourages us to be patient and not to give up hope, but to keep our faith no matter how dark the situation may seem. “Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14).
Finally, the bible emphasizes the importance of recognizing our greatest needs and surrendering them to God.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Speaking the Language of Revival
The language of revival is about communing with God and speaking the words of faith.
The bible speaks of the importance of being able to make righteous declarations on behalf of ourselves and others.
“And they spoke the word of the Lord with boldness” (Acts 4:31).
The bible also emphasizes that it is not enough to simply say the words, but rather that we must act on them and put them into practice.
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22).
Finally, the bible tells us that speaking the language of revival can have a powerful and lasting effect on our lives.
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8).
Seeking and Experiencing Revival
In order to experience spiritual revival, we must seek it out and allow ourselves to be immersed in the blessings and power of the Holy Spirit.
The bible encourages us to spend time in Scripture and prayer, to attend consistent Bible study classes and to fellowship with other believers.
“Do not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage one another” (Hebrews 10:25).
The bible also directs us to actively search for opportunities to be used by God and to participate in the Great Commission. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
The bible instructs us to remember that revival requires humility and self-awareness.
We must be willing to put aside our preconceived notions and biases, and to put our trust in the Lord.
“Unless you become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).
Enduring Revival
Revival is not a one-time event, but rather a spiritual process that requires dedication and perseverance.
The bible reminds us that, in order to experience lasting revival, we must focus on repentance and obedience to God’s commands and willpower ourselves to remain humble and steadfast.
“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).
The bible also underscores the importance of being patient and enduring during times of revival.
We are told to put our trust in the Lord, even in the face of difficult trials and tribulations.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7).
Finally, the bible encourages us to draw strength and courage from our community and to not be afraid to speak the truth in love.
“Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Revival in Action
So often, we sense revival in our lives, but in order to make it real, we must be ready to take action.
The bible reminds us that our spiritual renewal must result in good works and a life that glorifies God and serves our neighbor.
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).
The bible also insists that our revival should not be rooted in self-righteousness or pride, but rather in serving God and our fellow mankind. “Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and shun evil” (Proverbs 3:7).
Final Thoughts
Finally, the bible calls us to remember the importance of celebration — of rejoicing and praising God for the spiritual revival that He has given us. “Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises” (Psalm 98:4).
Faithway.info, your online sanctuary for deepening your spiritual journey and mastering the teachings of the Bible. At Faithway.info, we are passionate about making the wisdom of the Bible accessible to everyone, fostering a community dedicated to growth, understanding, and support.