MODERN REVIVALS

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.*1

In these days we need search the most intimate parts of our hearts. Until we do this the Holy Spirit will not descend upon us and use us in power to finish the Lord’s work. Our thoughts need to be refocused on the important aspects of life. The inspired pen tells us,

With every truly converted soul the relation to God and to eternal things will be the great topic of life. *2

Jesus was clear on what is the cost of following him. He said,

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.*3

The Spirit of Prophecy continues saying,

The desire for an easy religion that requires no striving, no self-denial, no divorce from the follies of the world, has made the doctrine of faith, and faith only,*4

We are looking for easiest way to heaven, the path that requires no sacrifices from our part, but such a path does not exist. Satan and sin are the sworn enemies God and try to destroy His invitation to salvation. Deciding to follow Christ involves a direct war against the forces of evil and that requires great sacrifice and a complete surrendering of self to Christ. The apostle Paul introduces the concept of "sorrow that leads to repentance."

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.*5

Being part of the church of the Laodiceans we are advised to buy gold refined in the fire, white garments and eye salve so that we may see. *6

To be found worthy in the last days we have to go through the refining fire tribulation, be clothed with garment of justice and awaken from the deep sleep in which we are in. We will endure a time of anguish which has never been seen before in this world in order to be purified. But to prepare for this time we need a close and intimate relationship with Jesus and the anointing power of the Holy Spirit to guide us every day and focus our minds above on the eternal things.

JESUS IS COMING!

1 * Hebrews 4:12
2 * The Great Controversy, “Modern Revivals” Ellen G. White
3 * Matthew 16:24-27
4 * The Great Controversy, “Modern Revivals” Ellen G. White
5 * 2 Corinthians 7:9-11
6 * Revelation 3:14-22