In a recent article by Abel Ukachi Amadi, the biblical pattern for revival is examined through the lens of 2 Chronicles 7:14. The key verse states: "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." This passage serves as a foundational call for both personal and national revival.
The Call to God's People
The phrase "my people" specifically refers to those who are called by God's name—Christian believers who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It is not a general call to the world but to the faithful. God promises that when His people approach Him with humility, seek His presence, and renounce their sins, He will respond with forgiveness and healing.
The Role of Humility
Humility is the first requirement for revival. Pride is identified as the enemy of spiritual awakening. To be humble means to bend the knee, bow down, and be in subjection to God. It involves recognizing our spiritual poverty and neediness before God. Those who are humble grieve over their own sins and the sins of others, acknowledging their complete dependence on God. James 4:6 reinforces this: "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble." Both individually and as a church, setting aside pride and humbling ourselves is essential. This may involve prostrating before God at the cross of Christ, crying out for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
The Power of Prayer
Prayer is the means through which revival is brought down. To pray is to ask God to act on behalf of oneself and others. The sovereign God has ordained prayer as the tool to accomplish His work, and He cooperates with the prayers of His people. Major revivals throughout history have resulted from believers who earnestly cried out to God in prayer. When we pray sincerely, we align ourselves with God's will and invite His transformative power.
Seeking God's Face
Seeking God's face involves more than seeking His hand—His works. It means pursuing His nature and character. Jeremiah 29:13 promises, "You will seek me and find me; when you seek me with all your heart." When we seek His face, we encounter His holiness and love, which expose our sin and selfishness. This leads to adoration, praise, and worship, transforming us to love Him more deeply and walk with Him intimately. Seeking His face enables us to hear His voice and experience His mercy and pardon.
Turning from Wicked Ways
Repentance is crucial for revival. Psalm 66:18 warns, "If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." To experience God's presence that changes lives and the world, we must eliminate sin and turn from wickedness. God hates sin in all forms—abortion, sexual sins, lying, cheating, drunkenness, drug abuse, hatred, jealousy, envy, and rage. He is displeased with a church that fails to stand against the evils of the day. Only when we repent can God hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our land.
Conclusion
Evangelist Dwight L. Moody remarked that when God's people fulfill His conditions, He "brings Heaven within speaking distance." The nugget for today is that humility precedes revival. A prayer of repentance is offered: "Lord, I repent from my sinful ways." For further engagement, prayer lines are available at 08033299824, and emails can be sent to [email protected]. Rev. Abel Ukachi Amadi serves as the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Nigeria.
