Revival does not occur because of something we do as Christians. Revival is the result of God working in our midst. However, there are things Christians must do in order for revival to take place. There is an inseparable relationship between revival and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Ellen White wrote:
“The baptism of the Holy Ghost as on the day of Pentecost will lead to a revival of true religion and the performance of many wonderful works” (Selected Messages, book 2, p. 57).
The baptism of the Holy Spirit spiritually revives the Laodicean Christian and gives him/her the power to witness for Christ. Jesus certainly knew the importance of what would happen when the Holy Spirit would be poured out in the “early rain” power on the day of Pentecost. Speaking of this He said:
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!” (Luke 12:49, NIV).
What fire was Jesus speaking of? Of course, He was speaking about the fire of the Holy Spirit.
“John answered, saying to all, ‘I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire’ ” (Luke 3:16).
How do Laodicean Christians receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and experience revival? The same way believers always have—by prayerfully claiming God’s promise. The baptism of the Holy Spirit was received by the early church on the day of Pentecost as a result of them praying together for 10 days, claiming Christ’s promise:
“These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14).
Ellen White confirmed the necessity of prayer for revival to take place when she wrote: “A revival need be expected only in answer to prayer” (Selected Messages, book 1, p. 121).
Every Christian today needs to pray the prayer of David that I mentioned at the close of yesterday’s devotional: “Will You not revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You?” (Ps. 85:6).
“Revival was not reserved for the early Christian church. In the book of 2 Chronicles we read a very clear description of how revival takes place among God’s people.”
“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chron. 7:14).
God is ready and willing to pour out His Spirit, but revival requires 100 percent surrender to God on our part. That is why in God’s message to the Laodiceans He counsels them to “buy” of Him:
“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see” (Rev. 3:18).
We “buy” by giving ourselves unreservedly to God. There may be financial wrongs to be righted, which may cost us money. There may be apologies to be given, which will cost us our pride. However, if you want to make the devil tremble, begin earnestly to seek God for revival:
“There is nothing that Satan fears so much as that the people of God shall clear the way by removing every hindrance, so that the Lord can pour out His Spirit upon a languishing church and an impenitent congregation” (Selected Messages, book 1, p. 124).
Are you willing to surrender all to God and “buy” of Him by giving Him 100 percent of yourself? That is what it will take to experience revival in your life and be part of the great revival that will soon take place among God’s people.”
Personal Reflection and Discussion
1. What attitude must Christians have toward God for revival to take place in their life?
2. What two things must Christians do in order for revival to take place? Have you done these two things?
3. What did David pray for?
4. What will the baptism of the Holy Spirit do for Christians and the church? Why is this important?
Prayer Activity
• Call your prayer partner and discuss this devotional with him/her.
• Pray with your prayer partner:
1. for God to baptize you with His Holy Spirit.
2. for God to give you the desire to surrender 100 percent to Him.
3. for God to revive you and His church.
4. for those on your prayer list.”
Excerpt From: Dennis Smith. “40 Days.” iBooks.