Monday, August 7, 2023

Charles Spurgeon

Revival

O Lord, I have heard thy speech, and was afraid: O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy

Habakkuk 3:2

This is the final week we will use our Christian writers. I think it would be edifying to end on Charles Spurgeon. One of the most captivating preachers of his day, Spurgeon was known for polarizing sermons that both inspired and infuriated audiences. He was born in England and not only preached sermons but he was also known for founding a college and an orphanage. Alive in the 1800s, this man was a skillful teacher and preacher. It seems befitting to share a bit of his work.

He writes, “All true religion is the work of God. God is indeed the author of salvation in the world, and religion is the work of grace. If there is anything good or excellent found in His Church, it, too, is entirely God's work, from first to last. It is God who quickens a soul which was dead, and it is God who maintains the life of that soul; God who nurtures and perfects that life in the Church. We ascribe nothing to ourselves and everything to God. We do not dare for a single moment to think that our conversion or our sanctification is effected by our efforts or the efforts of another. True, there are means by which we are converted and sanctified, but they are entirely God's work.”

In this passage of scripture, the prophet Habakkuk prays for revival. He had seen God do the work in the past and now he wanted to see it again. We must remember that it is not God reviving our work, but God reviving his work. Let us take this prayer to heart and not pray for our church, work, or family. Let us pray for ourselves. Lord, revive me.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I know that I have seen your fire and passion work in the hearts of man. Lord, revive thy work and begin with me. Lord, do for me what I cannot do for myself.

Foster, R. J., & Smith, J. B. (2005). Devotional classics: Selected readings for individuals and groups. HarperSanFrancisco.