Personal Revival
Psalm 85:6
Will you not revive us again: that your people may rejoice in you?


I use the term "revival" as implying, not simply the quickening and strengthening of the Divine life in the soul where it already exists, but also the production of that life where it has not before been enjoyed, — in other words, as including in it the conversion of sinners, as well as the edification of saints.

I. WE NEED A REVIVAL. Is there not amongst us much spiritual insensibility — much formality — much worldliness? Is there any one of us who does not feel, when he seriously and thoughtfully reflects on his opportunities and privileges, that he is not what he ought to be — not what he might have been?

II. WE MAY OBTAIN A REVIVAL.

1. That this desirable result may be gained, let me remind you that spiritual revival is a personal thing. The revival of a Congregation or of the church at large can only be reached by the revival of the individuals of whom the congregation or church is composed.

2. Do you ask, how are we to get it for ourselves? I answer, — by the use of the right means in the right spirit.

(1) If you are not yet converted, you must begin by receiving Christ as your personal Saviour. This is the commencement of Divine life in the soul.

(2) Prayer — secret personal prayer. It is very well that you should seek the prayers of others; but if you do not pray for yourselves, you have no right to expect personal revival.

(3) The devout study of the Word of God. In it God speaks to us, and speaks to us directly. If we do not listen, bow can we be His children — how can we know His will or do it?

(4) The cultivation of a watchful and dependent spirit. By a watchful spirit, I mean a spirit ever on its guard against sin. By a dependent spirit, I mean a spirit conscious of its own guilt and depravity, of its own weakness and infirmity.

(John Robson, D. D.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?

WEB: Won't you revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?




Lent, the Season of Revival
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