Prayer Journal
Monday, December 11, 2000
If I had to pick one thing that holds back revival more than anything else within the church, it would be the absence of desparation in Christians. Such desire moves us resolutely toward our goals. And what are our goals? It really doesn't matter. Without desparation, each of them becomes more like a hobby than a life changing purpose.
If you stop and think about it, the only reason why we don't see revival is because we have learned to live without it. Church members may not state it outwardly, but you can read it on their faces; "We're just fine the way we are and don't need anyone telling us we're doing something wrong!"
The church, by reason of attitudes like that, is not only divided denominationally, but also along non-doctrinal preference lines. Some of the diverse things that divide the church are race, social standing, friendship (or lack of it) and business posturing, just to name a few.
We see desperation in the business world as men and women aspire to advance their careers. It's also obvious in the lives of athletes who desire to become a highly paid sports professional. But strangely, desperation is missing in the life of most Christians. Understandably, people don't get desparate until they become weary of their situation. And many Christians are simply not tired of their situation to the point they become desparate for change.
You don't have to look far in Scripture to find an example of desperation. These desparate people had little regard for the intimidation, threat, ridicule or disbelief of onlookers. Their desire was so strong that nothing stopped them. Is not that how we should approach God as well? When we become so engrossed in our pursuit of holiness that we become fearless, revival can't be that far behind.
So, how does a timid, complacent Christian gain a desire for revival? Scripture says that God gives it to those who ask Him for it. But sadly, unless we become tired of our listless spiritual lives, we'll never never ask God to change it. Child of God, aren't you ready for a change? If so, ask Him. Just Thinkin'.. WebServant
"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Tim 1:7
(1) Scripture comes from the Holy
Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible
Society
(2) The images used herein were obtained
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