Revive Us Again, O Lord

REVIVE US AGAIN, O LORD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 85:6

Supporting Texts: Hosea 6:1-3, Habakkuk 3:2, Isaiah 57:15, Acts 3:19

INTRODUCTION:

Revival is the supernatural restoration of God's presence, power, and passion in the lives of His people. It is a season when God breathes fresh life into dry and weary souls and rekindles the fire of devotion, holiness, and service in the Church. When the psalmist cried out in Psalm 85:6, "Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?" it was a passionate plea for a spiritual awakening and renewed fellowship with God.

In times of spiritual dryness, moral decline, and societal chaos, the need for revival becomes urgent. God's people must return to Him in repentance and humility, desiring not just His blessings, but His presence. Revival is not just a series of church meetings or emotional experiences; it is God touching hearts, transforming lives, and awakening purpose.

This message calls each of us to desire and seek divine revival. Revival begins with the hunger in our hearts for more of God and results in a visible transformation that affects families, churches, and entire communities. Let us examine the biblical principles that lead to true revival.

1. REVIVAL BEGINS WITH BROKENNESS BEFORE GOD

a) True revival starts with repentance and humility (2 Chronicles 7:14):

Until we acknowledge our sinfulness and humble ourselves, revival cannot begin. Pride and self-righteousness are enemies of divine renewal.

b) God is near to the broken and contrite (Isaiah 57:15):

The Lord dwells with those who are humble in spirit and are ready to turn from their wicked ways.

c) Brokenness leads to genuine transformation (Joel 2:12-13):

Tearing of the heart, not just the garments, is what God requires. He responds when repentance is heartfelt.

d) Broken people cry out for mercy and restoration (Psalm 51:10-12):

David’s prayer reveals the heart that God revives—a heart that is sincere, dependent, and yielded.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son’s return to his father (Luke 15:17-24) shows how brokenness leads to restoration and revival.

2. REVIVAL RESTORES THE JOY OF SALVATION

a) Sin robs us of joy, revival restores it (Psalm 51:12):

When revival comes, God removes the burden of sin and replaces it with the joy of salvation.

b) Revival brings a fresh awareness of God’s love (Romans 5:5):

The Holy Spirit pours out God's love afresh, renewing our intimacy with Him.

c) Joy in God leads to strength for service (Nehemiah 8:10):

With renewed joy comes renewed strength to do the work of the Kingdom.

d) Rejoicing is a fruit of spiritual awakening (Isaiah 12:3):

Revived hearts draw from the wells of salvation with gladness and praise.

Biblical Example: The Ethiopian eunuch left rejoicing after encountering Christ (Acts 8:35-39).

3. REVIVAL IGNITES A PASSION FOR HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

a) Revival brings a hatred for sin and a love for righteousness (Romans 12:9):

Hearts that were once lukewarm begin to burn with holy zeal.

b) God refines His people in revival (Malachi 3:2-3):

He purifies and prepares them as vessels of honour.

c) Revival calls for a return to righteous living (Isaiah 1:16-17):

God demands a change in character, attitude, and actions as proof of revival.

d) A revived heart walks in obedience and fear of God (Ecclesiastes 12:13):

Holiness becomes not a burden, but a joyful expression of love for God.

Biblical Example: The revival in Nineveh led the entire city to turn from evil and embrace righteousness (Jonah 3:5-10).

4. REVIVAL EMPOWERS THE CHURCH FOR KINGDOM IMPACT

a) Revival brings boldness and power for evangelism (Acts 1:8):

Revived believers become effective witnesses to the world.

b) It restores spiritual gifts and divine manifestations (1 Corinthians 12:7):

The Church functions in power and purpose when the Spirit is poured out afresh.

c) Revival leads to unity and deeper fellowship (Acts 2:42-44):

Selfishness disappears, and love for one another increases.

d) Revival results in supernatural growth and influence (Acts 4:31-33):

The world takes notice when the Church is fully alive and active in the Spirit.

Biblical Example: On the Day of Pentecost, the Church was revived and 3,000 souls were saved in one day (Acts 2:1-41).

CONCLUSION:

Revival is God's answer to spiritual barrenness and decay. It is His divine intervention that renews, restores, and repositions His people for greater impact. We must cry out like the psalmist, “Revive us again!”—because only God can breathe new life into our dry bones and reignite our spiritual fire.

Let us position ourselves for a fresh move of God by walking in humility, seeking His face, and surrendering to His will. Revival is not for others alone—it begins with you and me. As we open our hearts, God will pour out His Spirit afresh, and we shall be revived again.

PRAYER POINTS: