This article is a companion piece to our Sunday sermon video on revival. We encourage you to watch the full message below for a deeper understanding of this transformative topic.
In our spiritual journey, there comes a moment when we realize that God is calling us to something greater – not just a momentary spiritual high, but a profound transformation that impacts everything around us. This transformation is what we call revival, and its influence reaches far beyond our personal relationship with God.
Understanding True Revival
Many of us have heard the term “revival” used to describe special meetings or conferences, but biblical revival is actually a lifestyle, not an event. It’s a continuous state of being empowered and guided by the Holy Spirit.
“I know that you can do everything, and that no purpose of yours can be withheld from you.” – Job 42:2
The Early Church: A Model of Revival
The first Christian church wasn’t just born in revival – it lived in revival. When we examine Acts 2, we see a community transformed by the Holy Spirit’s power:
- They were bold in their witness
- They experienced supernatural manifestations
- They saw dramatic conversions
- They lived in deep community
Breaking the Myths of Revival
Let’s address some common misconceptions about living a revived life:
Myth #1: Always Being Happy
Living in revival doesn’t mean wearing a perpetual smile. True joy in the Lord can coexist with life’s challenges. You might wake up with physical pain or face financial struggles, yet still maintain the deep-seated joy that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Myth #2: Becoming a “Super Christian”
Revival doesn’t turn us into spiritual superheroes. Remember: Jesus is the only “super” in our lives. Our power comes from Him alone, not from our own abilities or special spiritual status.
The Real Impact of Revival
When genuine revival touches our lives, several key changes become evident:
1. Spiritual Authority
“And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” – Matthew 7:28-29
Like Jesus, those living in revival speak with spiritual authority – not from a place of arrogance, but from a deep connection with God.
2. Spiritual Discernment
Just as Paul could discern the spirit of divination in Acts 16, revival sharpens our spiritual senses to recognize both God’s work and the enemy’s schemes in our lives and others’.
3. Kingdom Influence
Revival naturally leads to influence, but not through manufactured methods or forced conversations. People are drawn to authentic spiritual power, just as they were to the early church.
The ABC’s of Experiencing Revival
Want to experience this transformative power in your own life? Follow these simple yet profound steps:
- Ask – Seek God earnestly for revival
- Believe – Trust that God wants to revive you
- Change – Be willing to adjust your life to God’s standards
Your Revival Challenge
Here’s your challenge for this week: Spend 15 minutes each day specifically asking God for “more.” Not more things, not more blessings, but more of His presence and power in your life. Journal what changes you begin to notice in your spiritual sensitivity and influence on others.
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me.” – Acts 1:8
A Final Word
Remember, there’s always room for more of God in your life. You haven’t reached your spiritual ceiling – in fact, there isn’t one! The question isn’t whether God has more for you; the question is: are you ready to receive it?
If you’re hungry for more of God’s presence and power in your life, join us this Sunday at ICA Macau as we continue to explore what it means to live in genuine, biblical revival.
Will you take the challenge? Share your experiences with us in the comments below or connect with us during our Sunday service.