The Pursuit of Revival

Psalms 85 is one of my favorite Psalms. It is written from the perspective of someone who has seen God’s provision and protection in the past and pleads for God to restore the nation once again. His prayer is simple: revival. Here is a sermon outline for you:

1. The Psalmist remembers what God did for Israel in the past, including salvation and provision. 
2. The Psalmist requests that God revives them once again so that they might rejoice in Him.
3. The Psalmist rejoices in God's faithfulness and future intervention.  
4. The Psalmist accepts the people's responsibility to live righteous in order for God to grant peace.

From the Hymn, “Search Me, Oh God” by J. Edwin Orr written in 1936 at a revival meeting in Ngaruawahia, New Zealand:

O Holy Ghost,

Revival comes from Thee;

Send a revival,

Start the work in me.

Thy Word declares

Thou wilt supply our need;

For blessings now,

O Lord, I humbly plead.