How many of us through the years have prayed, Psalm 85:6, “Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?”
In truth, we need revival. I know of no greater need for our nation, the church where I pastor, or my own life than revival.
This is why our new 2018 theme for Lancaster Baptist Church is the single word Revive. It’s taken from Isaiah 57:15:
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
I’m encouraged by this verse because it assures us that God is willing to revive our hearts. And it tells us specifically what revival looks like:
A Holy Focus
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place…
As long as our focus is turned inward, we will not see revival. We need a fresh—not just glimpse—but focus on the holiness and greatness of our eternal God.
Pride is the idolatry of self. To experience revival, we must once again give Christ preeminence in our life.
A Humble Fellowship
…I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit…
That the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy, would desire to dwell with us is…amazing. And very humbling.
Just last month, we reflected often on the meaning of Emmanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23). And we know that as believers, the Holy Spirit indwells us (2 Corinthians 1:22).
But Isaiah 57:15 reminds us that those with a contrite and humble spirit can have a special awareness of God’s presence and power.
When we are filled with ourselves, we see no need for God, and we do not walk in dependence on Him. But when we humble ourselves before Him and focus on Him, He revives us.
A Hopeful Future
…to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.
Revival is new life. It is not something that we manufacture, but something God gives. Something, in fact, that He delights to give.
When God brings revival to a heart, there is no need to “pump up” that individual for the things of God. They are consumed with Him and have His power filling their heart.
Do You Want Revival?
As G. Campbell Morgan said, “We cannot organize revival, but we can set our sails to catch the wind from Heaven when God chooses to blow upon His people once again.”
When does God blow upon His people? And upon whom?
For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.—Isaiah 57:15
