Commitment and Revival

Spiritual revival always begins with the proclamation of God's Word. We need to hear and understand what God demands of us, and then respond accordingly. While it begins with the proclamation of God's Word, it deepens with the confession of sin! We discover that God is indeed a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. But true spiritual revival does not solidify until we make binding commitments to God. Nehemiah and company, after confessing their sins made three binding, written commitments to God--the same three that are found in any genuine spiritual revival. First, they made a commitment to obey God's Word. If God said it, they would believe and do it. Secondly, they made a commitment to distinct living apart from the world. Separation is simply total devotion to God no matter what the cost. And they made a commitment to be distinct in two areas: first in their family, marriages, and homes; and then secondly, in their business dealings. People should be able to look at us and see the difference that Jesus Christ has made in our lives. Our character and conduct should distinguish us from the world surrounding us. The last area of commitment they made that day was to financially support the Lord's work. Giving for support of the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem became a spiritual thermometer. When the people were hot towards the Lord, they gave! When cold, the giving went down. Spiritual revival begins with the proclamation of God's word, deepens with the confession of sin, but it solidifies as we make commitments to God--commitments which we can only keep through the power of the Spirit of GOD!