Introduction

Prayer for global revival is a fervent plea for a widespread spiritual awakening and renewal across nations, cultures, and communities. It is rooted in the desire to see God's kingdom advance on earth, transforming lives and societies through the power of the Holy Spirit. This entry explores the biblical foundation, historical context, and practical aspects of praying for global revival.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of revival is deeply embedded in Scripture, where God repeatedly calls His people to return to Him with sincere hearts. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, the Lord promises, "if My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land." This verse underscores the importance of humility, repentance, and prayer as prerequisites for divine intervention and healing.

The prophet Habakkuk also exemplifies a prayerful longing for revival: "LORD, I have heard the report of You; I stand in awe of Your deeds. Revive Your work in our time; make it known in our days. In wrath, remember mercy!" (Habakkuk 3:2). This prayer reflects a deep yearning for God to renew His mighty works and display His mercy amidst judgment.

In the New Testament, the early church experienced revival as believers devoted themselves to prayer, teaching, fellowship, and breaking of bread (Acts 2:42-47). The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) serves as a model for seeking a fresh move of God that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.

Historical Context

Throughout history, periods of revival have often been preceded by concerted prayer efforts. The Great Awakenings in the 18th and 19th centuries, for example, were marked by widespread prayer meetings and a collective cry for spiritual renewal. Leaders like Jonathan Edwards and Charles Finney emphasized the necessity of prayer in preparing the ground for revival.

The Welsh Revival of 1904-1905, led by Evan Roberts, was characterized by intense prayer and a deep conviction of sin, resulting in thousands coming to faith in Christ. Similarly, the Azusa Street Revival in 1906, which gave rise to the modern Pentecostal movement, was birthed in an atmosphere of prayer and expectation for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Practical Aspects of Praying for Global Revival

1. Personal Repentance and Holiness: Effective prayer for revival begins with personal repentance and a commitment to holiness. Believers are called to examine their hearts, confess sins, and seek purity before God. As James 5:16 states, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail."

2. Intercessory Prayer: Intercession involves standing in the gap for others, pleading for God's mercy and intervention. Ezekiel 22:30 highlights the importance of intercessors: "I searched for a man among them to repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, so that I should not destroy it, but I found no one."

3. Unity in Prayer: Jesus emphasized the power of agreement in prayer, stating, "Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven" (Matthew 18:19). Unity among believers is crucial for effective prayer for global revival.

4. Persistent and Fervent Prayer: The parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) teaches the importance of perseverance in prayer. Believers are encouraged to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and to approach God's throne with confidence and boldness (Hebrews 4:16).

5. Expectation and Faith: Praying for revival requires faith in God's promises and an expectation that He will move powerfully. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him."

Conclusion

Prayer for global revival is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in Scripture and exemplified throughout church history. It calls believers to humble themselves, seek God's face, and intercede for a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will transform lives and nations.