“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” (Psalm 85:6 ESV).
Psalm 85, attributed to the sons of Korah, is a prayer for God’s renewed mercy and restoration. Many believe it was written after Israel’s return from Babylonian exile. Although God had delivered His people before, they still needed His reviving power. Verse 6 reveals both the source and purpose of revival. Revival comes from God, and its ultimate fruit is renewed joy in Him.
This psalm teaches us three important truths about praying for revival.
First, revival begins with remembering God’s past faithfulness. The psalmist recalled how God had forgiven, restored, and shown mercy to His people. Remembering what God has done in the past strengthens our faith to ask Him to do it again.
Second, revival depends on God’s life-giving power. We cannot manufacture revival through programs, activities, or emotional excitement. The same divine grace that gives spiritual life to sinners through faith in Christ also renews spiritual vitality in believers. Therefore, we must seek the Lord in repentance, faith, and prayer.
Third, revival results in renewed rejoicing in God. The psalmist didn’t merely pray for improved circumstances or renewed prosperity. He prayed that God’s people might rejoice in Him. True revival is not primarily measured by larger crowds, greater activity, or emotional experiences, but by hearts rekindled with love for God.
Through Christ’s death and resurrection, we have been reconciled to God and given new life. As Paul declared, “we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:11). Let us therefore pray for revival in our land that many might turn from sin and turn to the Lord and receive new life.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, revive us again! Remind us of Your past faithfulness. Forgive our spiritual apathy and renew our hearts by Your Spirit. Restore our first love for Jesus and fill us with the joy of Your salvation. May our greatest delight be in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.