“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24
The spring breeze cooled my cheeks and tousled my hair as the peaceful lake wakes lapped against the rip rap. Trees are finally heavy with rich green leaves, and the smell of freshly mowed grass and aromatic flowers fills the air. Baby goslings bring a quick smile to my face as they hurriedly follow their parents to the safety of the water. I can picture the abundance of fish just below the water’s surface, searching for their next snack. My world is teeming with life, renewed to beauty and activity after the passing of drab and drafty days of winter.
Seeking Renewal
My Pastor is currently guiding our Wednesday night church group through a collection of scriptures and questions that lead us to examine our hearts and search our souls. We are preparing for personal revival.
If I am candid, the process is a bit painful. As I quietly review the well-formed queries, my cheeks flush with conviction. Oh my, I need revival.
Prone to Wander
I prayed to receive Christ as Savior as an eight-year-old child. I recognized my sinful nature, repented my sin, and surrendered my life to Him. For over fifty-five years, I have loved and followed Him. Unfortunately, I have not always kept my promise to place Him first in my life. I failed Him on many, many occasions. Though I desire to walk closely with Jesus, I sometimes meander off course.
My wandering seems to slip up on me. I’m doing everything I expect Christians to do –thinking I have it together and trying to live for Jesus. Then something happens that brings my attention to a thought or reaction that does not reflect the character of my Lord. A quick inventory of my heart reveals stubborn pride and self-righteousness. Conviction overwhelms me as I fall before Holy God in repentance. God is faithful to renew the joy of our relationship. He draws me close and shows me the better way. Revival happens.
Revival Defined
The definition of revival is spiritual reawakening. For Christians, revival encompasses a renewed love for God and devotion to Him, appreciation for His holiness, passion for His Word and Church, awareness of sin, and resolution to turn from sin in repentance. While a specific series of church meetings are often called “revival,” it is more.
Personal revival is a process. We must:
- recognize and confess our need for revival
- seek help from the only source for revival (The Holy Spirit)
- employ the means for securing revival (prayer)
- remove obstacles (sin)
- enjoy the results of revival (praise God for His cleansing and forgiveness)
- see evidence of change (transforming to become more like Christ)
Personal Challenge
How long has it been since you experienced true revival? If you are a Christian, I encourage you to search your heart and renew your commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. While the process can be a bit uncomfortable, the result is pure joy.
If you are not a Christian, I implore you to get to know the One who gave His life for a relationship with you. You will find perfect peace and eternal joy in Jesus Christ alone.
“Lord Jesus, please, guide us to search our souls. Revive relationships with You in my heart, church, and The Church. We need You. We seek You. Would you renew our hearts to beauty and Kingdom activity as we set aside the drab and dreary days of wandering? We desire to love you more and draw near to you. We rejoice in You and You alone.”
“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.” Psalm 85:6-7
Charlene Miller
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#charlenemillerblogs
