Revival is what happens to Christians. Awakening is what God does to save the lost. The two are different! God can do one without the other. He can use one to bring about the other or both at the same time. Of course God is sovereign over if either or both happen. However…

I’ve been ruminating and reflecting if revival is what Christians should be praying for SO THAT God might send an awakening? 1 Peter 4:17…

For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

Consider the condition of churches. At best 30% of our members attend. Few share Christ with the lost. Least attended are prayer services. There is little noticable difference between professed Christians and the lost. Compassion, mercy, reconciliation, grace, love, and forgiveness are wanting among believers. Few give sacrificially. People prefer fun trips to  mission trips. More emotion is generated for special services than Resurrection Sunday (Independence Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorial Day).

And let’s talk about ministers and staff. Many are prideful. Preaching is pragmatic versus Gospel centered. Many are more consumed with job security than leading God’s people. Many are turf sensitive, devoid of grace, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, and submission having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof. To a great degree I blame the condition of the church on unfaithful shepherds.

The saddest part about the last two paragraphs is that neither group realizes their condition or consider the possibility of being in either camp.  Which is why Paul wrote 2 Cor 13:5, “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!”

Maybe what is needed is revival BEFORE awakening. Maybe revival would usher in awakening. Maybe WE should quit looking around and condeming everyone else and take a serious look at ourselves.

God help us!