Jan. 7: A SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

Is there a coming time of spiritual revival for your community? Your city? Your state? Our nation? It is talked about quite a bit, in ministerial groups and Christian talk-shows. Sometimes I am asked for an opinion. Of course, I would like to see a great spiritual awakening.
Historical records of the so-called "Great Awakening" are so fascinating that any believer would like to experience it. Just for increased church attendance? No! But because the crime rate shrunk, jails closed, lawyers and judges were out of work, abuse ceased and corrupt politicians repented.
Historical records of the fruit of spiritual renewal don't lie. Will it happen near you soon? I don't think so. The churches of all denominations seem to be doing well. In fact, in the Mid-Atlantic area, new churches are starting all the time. Budget receipts are meeting the bills. Our current church outlook could be compared to the church of Laodicea described in The Revelation 3:17(NIV) "you say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' "
While many churches are involved in many activities, the activities do not prove spiritual life. Many churches now regularly offer various kinds of entertainment to attract people to attend. (A jokester observed about this that there is also much activity in the local cemetery but no sign of reawakening.)
Historically, when God gave a spiritual revival, it came to the whole community, every church was affected. Wouldn't you like to see your area known for something other than high crime rate, high tax rate, high population density, or high traffic count?
God's further answer to our problem is in The Revelation 3:18ff (NIV) "I counsel you to buy from me." In other words, spiritual awakening is available, if we want to pay the price.

"God maybe its time for You to shake our foundations? Inspire us to count the cost if
things keep going the way they are now. We need to wake up spiritually!" Amen