I see God doing a steady work in our church. He is moving amidst the deacon’s ministry, in our Sunday School expanding ministry, through our Gals-on-the-Go (are we seeing a Guys-on-the-Go in the works?) outreach, and in the recent community “I Need You To Survive” services. There is a stronger emphasis on prayer. A more unified and excitement building spirit is evident in our gatherings. I hope you are among the ones God is working on. In the midst of all that we have been experiencing together, let the following verse get a hold of you: “God began a good work in you. And He will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again. I am sure of that.” (Philippians 1:6 Everyday Bible)
God is just getting started. How easy it would be for us to relax and just be comfortable in all that He has done recently but then we would be a huge roadblock to His continuing work. Revival is starting – so let’s make sure it fully comes. The following recipe will enable God to complete what He is already doing.
#1 Prayer – If revival happens at First Baptist, our primary contribution will be earnest prayer. Only the Lord can bring revival. We cannot make it happen. Our part is prayer. Pray that God’s rule be evident in China Grove. Pray for persons who are lost. Pray for your own spiritual needs.
#2 Change – Revival happens when people are willing to change. If revival continues, we will be changing many of our priorities. We will be different in our attitudes and actions. We shall be altered in our stewardship. We must be willing to change and anticipate change. Ask the Lord to change you (not someone else – you).
#3 Confession – Revival requires confession of our sins. You cannot maintain secret sin and expect revival at the same time. We must be willing, and daring, to confess our sins. We must repent – turn around – and follow the Lord.
#4 Commitment – Revival requires our commitment – to invite others, to attend, to share our witness, and to pray. Without whole-hearted commitment, we are closing the door on God’s further action in our lives.
#5 Participation – From one meeting to another, I note one constant. Those persons who participate are the ones who place themselves in the place for God to bless them. You can serve, sing, sit, pray, invite, bring, love, witness…etc. Do something – be involved.
Another way of saying this, and more, is to read and do II Chronicles 7:14: “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 will heal their land.”
There are signs of revival, and God has promised to continue His work. Will you let Him do it? Will you aid Him in His continual work among us? Or will you be a roadblock to the outpouring of God’s Spirit?…Between now and our planned revival services (April 20 – May 2) let’s participate with God so that the Spring will be the greatest time in the life of our church. “God began” and “He will continue” and “I am sure of that!”
Count on and continue to work on me,
Brother Steve