Theme of the Year 2025: Revive Us, O Lord Text: Psalm 85:1-13

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Written by: Victor Mushimbami, Founder and Lead Blogger of Purpose Beyond Limits

Introduction

As we step into a new year, we cry out for revival both personally and corporately as a church. Psalm 85 serves as a fitting scripture to guide us as we seek God's hand to revive us. This psalm reflects a deep yearning for restoration, spiritual awakening, and God's presence in the midst of His people. Revival, as seen throughout Scripture, transforms individuals, communities, and nations, bringing people back to God's holiness, power, and love.

Revive Us, O Lord!

Happy New Year! This year, we are trusting God for a season of revival, and our sermons will reflect this focus. Throughout January, I will be preaching to set the pace for this theme, laying the foundation for the journey ahead.

While we will continue exploring the Book of Proverbs, we will also include parallel sermons centered on revival. Some Sundays will focus on Proverbs, while others will highlight revival topics as we seek to be transformed into the image of Christ.

The full preaching rota will be ready by February, but for now, let us commit this year to God, trusting Him to guide us into renewal and spiritual growth. I’d love to hear your thoughts or reflections on this direction as we move forward together. May God see us through!

Scripture Psalms 85:1-13

Theme of the year: Revive us, O Lord!

 "Revive Us, O Lord" is a call for spiritual renewal, and revival will address several critical areas to bring about transformation in the church and individual lives. 

 key areas of revival:

Revival in Personal Holiness

Focus: Conviction of sin, repentance, and pursuing a holy life.

Action: Encourage personal accountability, confession, and practical steps to overcome sin.

Revival in Prayer

Focus: Restoring a deep, consistent, and fervent prayer life.

Action: Organize prayer and fasting sessions during house group meeting and on other days, intercede for the church and the lost, and teach on the power of prayer.

Revival in Worship

Focus: Renewing authentic worship that exalts God and brings hearts closer to Him.

Action: Teach the church to worship in spirit and truth, and evaluate the sincerity of current worship practices.

Revival in the Word of God

Focus: Renewed hunger for reading, understanding, and applying God’s Word.

Action: Promote Bible study groups and encourage daily personal devotion.

Revival in Unity and Love

Focus: Healing divisions, overcoming jealousy, envy, and selfishness, and fostering love.

Action: Hold meetings or sermons on forgiveness, reconciliation, and the power of love.

Revival in Commitment to the Church

Focus: Encouraging consistent attendance, participation, and service in church activities.

Action: Teach about the importance of being the body of Christ and invite members to participate.

Revival in Evangelism and Outreach

Focus: Rekindling a passion for the lost and sharing the gospel.

Action: Train members in evangelism and organize outreach programs.

Revival in Stewardship

Focus: Renewed faithfulness in giving, using time, talents, and resources for God's work.

Action: Teach about stewardship and its connection to spiritual growth.

Revival in Leadership

Focus: Renewing the commitment and spiritual vitality of church leaders: Kitwe chapel, Chimwemwe Chapel and Garneton East Chapel.

Action: Conducting prayers for the three Chapels.

Revival in Community Impact

Focus: Becoming salt and light in the community, addressing social and moral issues through lifestyle Evangelism

Action: Encourage lifestyle Evangelism, address local spiritual challenges, and demonstrate God’s love.

Background of Psalm 85

Psalm 85 is attributed to the sons of Korah, known for leading worship in the temple. The psalm was likely written during a time of spiritual or physical restoration, possibly after Israel's return from Babylonian exile. The psalmist reflects on God's past mercies, asks for revival, and trusts in His future promises.

Why Revival Was Needed

Revival in Psalm 85 was necessitated by Israel's history of disobedience and the consequences they faced as a result. Their story provides a powerful lesson about the dangers of ignoring God's warnings, the discipline that follows, and the hope of restoration when His people turn back to Him.

Israel Had Experienced God’s Discipline Due to Their Sin

Throughout Israel's history, sin often led to God's discipline, which manifested in various forms, including conquest, exile, and suffering. One significant instance was the Babylonian exile, where the nation was uprooted from their land due to idolatry, disobedience, and injustice (2 Chronicles 36:15-21). God had sent prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel to warn them to repent, but the people refused to listen. Their persistent rebellion led to the destruction of Jerusalem, the burning of the temple, and their captivity in Babylon. This discipline was not merely punitive but served as a means to turn their hearts back to God by showing them the devastating consequences of abandoning His covenant.

They Were Now Seeking Restoration, Acknowledging Their Dependence on God’s Mercy

After years of exile, Israel began to recognize their need for God's mercy and restoration. Psalm 85 reflects this plea, as the psalmist remembers God's past acts of forgiveness and restoration: "You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins" (Psalm 85:2). The return from Babylonian captivity marked the beginning of their restoration. Under leaders like Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, the people began to rebuild Jerusalem, restore temple worship, and recommit to God's law. This process involved collective repentance, as seen in Nehemiah 9, where they confessed their sins and the sins of their ancestors. Their acknowledgment of dependence on God’s mercy was a critical step toward spiritual and physical revival.

The Psalmist Recognized That Revival Could Only Come Through God’s Intervention

The psalmist's prayer in Psalm 85:6, "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?" underscores the understanding that revival is a divine act. While human effort, such as rebuilding the temple and renewing the covenant, was essential, true revival, marked by spiritual renewal and joy, required God’s direct intervention. The psalmist’s plea reflects a deep understanding that only God could restore their fortunes, forgive their sins, and reignite their joy.

The Warnings They Did Not Listen To

Before their exile, Israel had been warned repeatedly by prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Hosea. They were admonished against idolatry, social injustice, and breaking the covenant. Jeremiah 25:4-7 records God’s words through the prophet: "You have not listened, nor inclined your ears to hear… each one of you turn from his evil way." However, these warnings fell on deaf ears. Instead of repenting, the people hardened their hearts, leading to the inevitable judgment of exile.

How They Were Restored

Restoration began when God moved the heart of King Cyrus of Persia to allow the exiles to return to Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1-4). The people returned in waves, led by Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah, focusing on rebuilding the temple, reinstituting worship, and repairing the city's walls. Spiritually, they were restored as they recommitted to the covenant and rededicated themselves to God’s law. Nehemiah 8:8-12 describes a powerful moment when the people heard the Word of God, wept in repentance, and celebrated their renewed relationship with Him.

Remembering God's Faithfulness (Verses 1-3)

"You showed favor to your land, O LORD; you restored the fortunes of Jacob."

The psalm starts with gratitude for God’s past acts of mercy, forgiveness, and restoration. The psalmist reflects on how God’s favor transformed their circumstances, laying a foundation of hope for future renewal.

Verse 1: God’s Favor and Restoration

The psalmist begins by acknowledging God's favor toward His people and His land. The phrase "restored the fortunes of Jacob" translates the Hebrew term שׁבות (shĕvut), which means "to turn back" or "to restore." Often associated with the return from Babylonian exile, shĕvut also describes deliverance from various calamities, showing God’s power to reverse dire situations.

This verse calls to mind pivotal moments in Israel’s history, such as the Exodus or the return from captivity, when God demonstrated His covenant faithfulness. These acts reveal His commitment to His people and inspire confidence in His ability to restore them again.

Verse 2: Forgiveness of Sins

"You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin."

The Hebrew word נָשָׂ֣אתָ (nasata), meaning "to lift" or "to carry away," emphasizes the removal of guilt. Similarly, כָּסִיתָֽ (kasita), meaning "to cover," reflects atonement, pointing to God’s mercy in reconciling with His people. This verse recalls the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus, where sin was symbolically transferred to a scapegoat and removed (Leviticus 16).

This act of forgiveness mirrors the gospel’s ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who bore our sins on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). By removing their sin, God restored Israel to fellowship and prepared them for future blessings.

Verse 3: The Turning of Wrath

"You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger."

The Hebrew term אָסַפְתָּ (asapta), meaning "to gather" or "remove," conveys God's active decision to cease His wrath. His anger, described by אַף (aph), represents His righteous judgment. Yet God, in His mercy, turned His wrath away, offering grace and peace to His people.

This verse recalls moments such as Moses interceding after the golden calf incident (Exodus 32), when God relented from His anger. These events show His patience and willingness to restore His people when they repent.

Application: Rekindling the Joy of Salvation and Returning to Our First Love

The psalmist’s reflection on God’s past faithfulness invites us to remember our own experiences of salvation. Like Israel, we must not lose sight of the joy and gratitude we first felt when God forgave our sins and welcomed us as His children (John 1:12).

David’s prayer in Psalm 51:12, "Restore to me the joy of your salvation," highlights the importance of remembering and reigniting our early passion for God. When we recall our initial zeal, we are inspired to pursue deeper fellowship with Him.

Lessons from the Church of Ephesus

The church in Ephesus, commended in Revelation 2:1-7 for their works and perseverance, was rebuked for abandoning their “first love.” Their initial devotion to Christ had faded, leading to a faith characterized by duty rather than heartfelt love. Jesus admonished them, saying, “Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first” (Revelation 2:5).

This serves as a warning and encouragement for believers today. Just as the Ephesians were called to remember, repent, and return to their first love, we too must rekindle our passion for Christ by prioritizing intimacy with Him, studying His Word, and serving with a heart of gratitude.

Practical Steps to Revival

Remember: Reflect on how God has been faithful in your life. Recall the joy and transformation you experienced when you first came to Christ.

Repent: Confess areas where your love and devotion may have waned. Seek God’s forgiveness and restoration.

Return: Recommit to practices that foster intimacy with God, prayer, worship, and service with love.

By remembering God’s faithfulness, both in the biblical narrative and in our personal lives, we find hope and motivation to seek revival. Gratitude for His past mercies inspires us to pursue a deeper, more vibrant relationship with Him, returning to our first love and experiencing the joy of salvation anew.

Psalm 85:4-7 - The Plea for Revival and Restoration

Verse 4: “Restore us again, O God our Savior, and put away your displeasure toward us.”

The psalmist starts by asking God to restore His people. The word "restore" here implies not just returning them to their former state, but bringing them back into a relationship with God where His blessings flow freely. Israel had suffered from God’s anger due to their sins, and they now seek to be spiritually revived and made whole again.

The phrase "O God our Savior" is significant. It recalls God’s saving acts in the past, particularly when He rescued Israel from Egypt (Exodus 14:21-31) and delivered them through the wilderness (Exodus 16). The people remember these mighty works, and their plea here is rooted in the hope that God will act once again, as He has done in history, to deliver and restore them.

The next part, “put away your displeasure toward us,” acknowledges that God’s anger has been evident in their circumstances. They feel His judgment still lingering, as though they are suffering the consequences of past wrongs. The psalmist pleads with God to remove the effects of His anger, believing that God’s displeasure can be turned away through His mercy and grace.

This verse is a heartfelt cry for God to forgive, to end the punishment, and to restore what has been lost. Historically, this could have been written after the Babylonian exile, a time when Israel had experienced great suffering and needed both physical and spiritual restoration. The people felt disconnected from God and longed for His presence to be with them once more.

Verse 5: “Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger through all generations?”

Here, the psalmist deepens the plea, asking God if His anger will last forever. This isn't a challenge to God, but a rhetorical question that expresses the psalmist’s despair and longing for relief. “Will you prolong your anger through all generations?” shows the enduring nature of their suffering. For generations, Israel had faced the consequences of disobedience, wars, exile, and oppression, and the psalmist is wondering if God’s anger will continue indefinitely.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were often disciplined for turning away from God, as seen in the time of the judges (Judges 2:14-15), and during the Babylonian exile, when the Israelites were punished for their idolatry and wickedness (2 Kings 24:10-16). The psalmist here is asking for a change, a shift from God’s anger to His mercy.

Verse 6: “Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”

This verse brings the central request of the psalm to the forefront: revival. Revival means being brought back to life, spiritually renewed, and restored. Israel needs a fresh outpouring of God’s grace and presence, something that only God can provide. The psalmist’s desire is not just for personal restoration, but for the entire people to experience God’s joy once again.

Notice how the psalmist connects revival with rejoicing in God. When God revives His people, they will experience joy, not just because of the material blessings, but because they will find a renewed relationship with their Creator. “That your people may rejoice in you” shows that revival is not just about individual well-being but a corporate renewal, a community brought back into fellowship with God.

Historically, times of revival in Israel were marked by a return to worship and a reestablishment of God's law. For example, after the exile, leaders like Nehemiah and Ezra led the people in restoring proper worship and the reading of the Scriptures (Nehemiah 8). It was through these acts of revival that the people experienced renewed joy and connection with God.

Verse 7: “Show us your unfailing love, Lord, and grant us your salvation.”

The psalmist ends this section by asking for God's unfailing love to be revealed to His people. This is a plea for God’s loyal and steadfast love (often referred to as hesed in Hebrew), which is foundational to Israel's identity. God's love is the basis for the restoration and revival that the psalmist seeks. They believe that God’s love is unbreakable and will lead to their salvation, their ultimate rescue from their distress.

In the Old Testament, God’s love was often linked to His covenant faithfulness (Exodus 34:6-7), where He promised to be with His people and forgive their sins if they returned to Him. The psalmist is asking for God’s loving kindness to shine through, believing that it will bring about their deliverance.

In these verses, the psalmist moves from reflecting on Israel's brokenness to pleading with God for mercy, revival, and restoration. The prayer is urgent, heartfelt, and rooted in the hope that God, who has shown mercy in the past, will act again. The history of Israel, with its cycles of sin and restoration, shows that God is always ready to forgive and revive His people when they turn back to Him. The plea for revival is not just for the sake of comfort, but for the joy and glory of God’s people, as they are brought back into His loving embrace.

Listening for God’s Promises (Psalm 85:8-9)

Verses 8-9: “I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants, but let them not turn to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.”

These verses mark a shift in the psalmist’s tone from pleading to attentiveness. The focus is on listening to God and trusting in His promises. The psalmist moves from speaking about God to waiting for Him to speak. This is a vital step in revival and restoration, quieting our hearts to hear from the Lord.

 “I will listen to what God the LORD says” (Verse 8a)

The psalmist makes a deliberate decision to listen for God’s voice. This reflects a posture of humility and readiness to receive instruction or correction. Listening is more than just hearing, it involves actively seeking to understand and obey what God says.

In biblical history, listening to God often led to significant breakthroughs:

Moses listened to God’s call at the burning bush (Exodus 3), which led to the deliverance of Israel.

Elijah, in a moment of despair, heard God’s voice not in the wind or fire but in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13).

Revival starts with this kind of attentiveness, a willingness to set aside distractions and focus on what God is saying.

“He promises peace to his people” (Verse 8b)

The promise of peace (shalom) goes beyond the absence of conflict. It speaks of wholeness, harmony, and restoration in every area of life. This peace is reserved for God’s people, those who trust Him and walk in His ways.

However, there’s a warning here: “but let them not turn to folly.” Israel had a history of turning away from God’s instructions, which led to judgment and exile. The psalmist is urging the people not to repeat those mistakes. True peace comes when we align our lives with God’s will, avoiding the folly of sin and disobedience.

“Surely his salvation is near those who fear him” (Verse 9a)

This verse emphasizes the connection between fearing God and experiencing His salvation. To fear God means to respect, honor, and reverence Him. It’s not about terror but about acknowledging His holiness and submitting to His authority.

Historically, when Israel feared God, they experienced His salvation:

During the Exodus, the Israelites saw God’s mighty hand of salvation when He parted the Red Sea (Exodus 14:30-31).

In the time of King Jehoshaphat, God delivered Israel from their enemies when the people sought Him in humility and fear (2 Chronicles 20:15-22).

The psalmist reminds us that salvation is always near to those who place God at the center of their lives.

“That his glory may dwell in our land” (Verse 9b)

The ultimate goal of revival and restoration is not just the well-being of the people but the glory of God. When God’s people walk in obedience, His presence and glory become evident in the land.

This echoes God’s covenant with Israel: if they remained faithful, He would dwell among them (Exodus 29:45-46). The psalmist longs for a time when God’s glory is once again evident in their midst, a time when His presence brings peace, salvation, and renewal to the nation.

These verses challenge us to listen actively for God’s voice in His Word and trust His promises:

Revival requires a renewed hunger for God’s Word. Are we spending time in Scripture, seeking His guidance?

Peace comes when we align our lives with God’s will. Are there areas where we need to turn away from folly and walk in obedience?

Salvation is near to those who fear Him. Are we living with reverence and respect for God in our daily lives?

As we listen for God’s promises, let us commit to walking in obedience so that His glory can dwell in our lives, our families, and our communities. This year, may we quiet our hearts, trust His promises, and experience the peace and salvation He has promised.

The Fruits of Revival (Psalm 85:10-13)

Verses 10-13: “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.”

These verses present a beautiful picture of the results of revival. When God moves in His people, the impact is profound and transformative. Revival is not just about emotional renewal; it produces tangible fruits in the lives of individuals and communities.

 Love and Faithfulness Meet Together (Verse 10a)

The first fruit of revival is the harmony between love and faithfulness. In a revived heart and community, love for God and others grows deeper, and faithfulness to His commands becomes steadfast.

Love reflects God’s character. When revival happens, His people embody His love, extending kindness, forgiveness, and compassion to others (1 John 4:7-8).

Faithfulness speaks of loyalty and commitment to God and His Word. It represents the renewed covenant relationship between God and His people.

Historically, after the Babylonian exile, when God restored Israel, there was a renewed focus on worship, the Law, and living in obedience (Nehemiah 8:5-8). The people’s faithfulness was rekindled as they rediscovered God’s love for them.

Righteousness and Peace Kiss Each Other (Verse 10b)

This poetic phrase highlights the deep connection between righteousness and peace.

Righteousness refers to living in alignment with God’s standards. A revived people pursue holiness, reflecting God’s character in their daily lives (Isaiah 1:16-17).

Peace (shalom) represents wholeness, harmony, and well-being in every aspect of life. True peace flows from righteous living.

In a revived community, holiness and peace work together. When relationships are restored with God and others, there is a sense of unity and joy. The “kiss” between righteousness and peace illustrates how revival brings reconciliation and harmony, both vertically (with God) and horizontally (with others).

Faithfulness Springs from the Earth, and Righteousness Looks Down from Heaven (Verse 11)

This verse paints a vivid picture of revival as a partnership between heaven and earth. When God revives His people:

Faithfulness grows among His people like a fruitful crop from the earth. It symbolizes human response, obedience, devotion, and loyalty to God.

Righteousness comes from heaven, showing God’s blessing and approval of His people’s renewed commitment to Him.

This imagery reminds us of God’s covenant blessings in Leviticus 26:3-13, where He promises abundance and peace to those who walk in obedience. Revival is a meeting point where God’s divine favor intersects with human repentance and faithfulness.

The Lord Will Indeed Give What Is Good (Verse 12)

Revival also results in tangible blessings. When God’s people are restored to Him, both spiritual and physical blessings flow:

Spiritual abundance includes renewed joy, peace, and purpose. It’s seen in the vibrancy of worship and transformed lives.

Physical blessings can include prosperity in the land, reflecting God’s care and provision. For Israel, this meant fruitful harvests and national flourishing, as seen in God’s promises to bless their obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

This verse reminds us that God is the source of all good things (James 1:17). When His people are aligned with Him, they experience His goodness in every aspect of life.

Righteousness Prepares the Way for His Steps (Verse 13)

The final verse shows that righteousness leads to God’s presence and guidance. A righteous people create an environment where God’s presence is welcome, and His purposes can be fulfilled. Revival prepares the way for God to move mightily among His people.

This idea echoes Isaiah 40:3-5, where the way is prepared for the coming of the Lord. Revival clears the path for God to work in and through His people.

The Transforming Power of Revival

Revival produces visible, transformative fruits:

1. Renewed Relationships: Love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace flourish. Divisions are healed, and communities are restored.

2. Blessings Flow: Both spiritual and physical abundance follow when God’s people are revived. Families, churches, and nations experience the goodness of God.

3. Prepared Paths: Revival creates an environment where God’s presence is evident, and His purposes are fulfilled.

As we seek revival, let us pray for these fruits in our lives and communities. Let us commit to loving one another, walking faithfully with God, and pursuing righteousness and peace. May we create a path where God’s glory can dwell, and His blessings overflow into every area of our lives.

Revival in the Old Testament

1. King Josiah's Revival (2 Kings 22-23):

During King Josiah’s reign, the Book of the Law was rediscovered in the temple. Upon hearing it, Josiah was overwhelmed with conviction, leading him to repentance and a determination to lead the nation back to God.

Key Actions:

National Repentance: Josiah gathered the people and renewed their covenant with God (2 Kings 23:3).

Idolatry Purged: He destroyed altars, idols, and shrines of false gods throughout the kingdom (2 Kings 23:4-20).

Restoration of Worship: The Passover was celebrated with great dedication, reconnecting the nation with its covenantal identity (2 Kings 23:21-23).

Revival often begins when God’s Word is rediscovered and responded to with repentance and obedience. Josiah’s revival teaches us that genuine change requires active steps to remove sin and restore true worship.

2. Revival under Ezra and Nehemiah (Nehemiah 8-9):

Following their return from exile, Israel experienced revival under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah.

Key Events:

The Word Proclaimed: Ezra read the Law to the people, bringing them to tears as they understood its truths (Nehemiah 8:8-9).

Confession and Worship: Convicted by the Word, the people fasted, confessed their sins, and worshiped God (Nehemiah 9:1-3).

Covenant Renewal: They renewed their commitment to live according to God’s laws (Nehemiah 9:38).

Impact: This revival led to a unified community centered on God’s Word and His covenant. It restored their identity as God’s chosen people.

Revival thrives when God’s Word is central, convicting hearts, leading to confession, and prompting a renewed commitment to holiness and worship.

Revival in the New Testament

1. Pentecost (Acts 2):

The New Testament marks the birth of the church at Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples. This empowered them to boldly proclaim the gospel.

Key Events:

Holy Spirit’s Arrival: At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples, signifying the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to empower them as His witnesses (Acts 1:8). Visible signs, such as what appeared to be flames of fire, rested on each of them, symbolizing God’s presence (Acts 2:3). They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, enabling them to proclaim the gospel to a diverse audience from many nations (Acts 2:4-11).

This event was about God equipping His followers to communicate the gospel clearly to all people, regardless of language or background. The miracle emphasized God’s desire for all nations to hear the good news and pointed to the universality of the gospel.

Peter’s Preaching: Peter, filled with the Spirit, preached the gospel, and 3,000 people repented and were baptized (Acts 2:41).

Impact: The church grew rapidly, characterized by teaching, fellowship, prayer, and the breaking of bread (Acts 2:42-47).

Revival occurs when believers are filled with the Holy Spirit, leading to bold proclamation of the gospel and transformed lives.

2. Revival in Samaria (Acts 8):

When persecution scattered believers, Philip went to Samaria, bringing revival through the gospel.

Key Events:

Gospel Preached: Philip proclaimed Christ, performed miracles, and healed many (Acts 8:5-7).

Joy in the City: Many believed, were baptized, and experienced great joy as lives were transformed (Acts 8:8-12).

Impact: Revival broke cultural barriers as the gospel spread beyond Jerusalem, demonstrating God’s power to unify people.

Revival often follows faithful gospel proclamation, even in difficult or unexpected places.

What Revival Looks Like Today

Based on the principles in Scripture, revival today touches on 10 key areas:

1. Personal Holiness: True revival begins with repentance and a commitment to live in righteousness.

2. Prayer: Fervent prayer fuels revival and aligns our hearts with God’s will.

3. Worship: worship draws people closer to God.

4. Word of God: A hunger for Scripture is central to revival.

5. Unity: Revival fosters reconciliation and unity among believers.

6. Commitment: Renewed dedication to church life and mission becomes evident.

7. Evangelism: A passion for sharing the gospel ignites.

8. Stewardship: Believers faithfully use their resources and talents for God.

9. Leadership Renewal: Leaders are revived, guiding the church with vision and humility.

10. Community Impact: Revival transforms society as believers live out their faith practically.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Revival spans from the Old Testament to the New Testament and continues today. Whether through Josiah’s reforms, Ezra’s public reading of the Law, or Philip’s bold preaching, the pattern is clear: revival starts with God’s Word, leads to repentance, and results in transformation.

Let Psalm 85:6, “Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”, be our prayer. Revival begins with us. Let’s commit to seeking God wholeheartedly, aligning with His Word, and becoming vessels of His transformative work in our lives, churches, and communities. May our cry be: “Revive us, O Lord!”