As we move deeper into the twenty-first century, most of us will agree that the outlook on the world is bleak, while the condition of the church seems weak. Who can disagree that the body of Christ desperately needs revival? It is tragic enough that the political community of America is awash with corruption and division; but the church is paralyzed with apathy, complacency, and division. It appears that God looks to his people to allow him to bring us to new life before we can expect to influence the world to make the changes he demands before he can pour out his blessings on the nation.
But there is hope. God promises:
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 (II Chron. 7:14, NIV). I am encouraged because everywhere I turn I hear believers testify to the conviction of the Spirit within them to pray for revival. Many of our readers of this quarterly periodical responded to the last issue by saying, “We are praying for revival!”
