I am still reading Bill Johnson’s book Defining Moments, which I shared with you last week. This week I read chapter nine, Led by the Spirit: Evan Roberts and the Welsh Revival. “Evan Roberts spent ten years fiercely praying for revival. …It posessed him in every sense of the word.” (page 182)
How long and how persistently are you praying for something? I have been praying for salvation for my household since I found out as a new believer that I could do that. Pastor Johnson compares it to looking at an acorn and picturing the full-grown oak tree, rejoicing just as much over the seed as you will at the fulfillment of the promise. “Anyone who is given the “acorn” and does not treat it with the respect and honor that it deserves will never see it grow to become an “oak tree.” (page 183)
We are at our son’s home for the second time in a month and I have seen glimpses of seeds I’ve planted in this household beginning to sprout and grow. By the grace of God, I am watering what I can and gaining vision for a harvest of souls. I wonder how many seeds of God’s revival and glory come down to earth have been killed due to lack of vision and persistence. How many small beginnings have you despised?
Pastor Bill also points out the process it takes to prepare us to be able to carry the weight of glory we’re asking for. God, in his wisdom, does not want to load us down when we are not ready, and persistent prayer and increased faith are needed or we will break under the load of glory. Evan Roberts prayed for ten years, was in the midst of the Welsh revival for about a year, then became ill and hid away for most of the rest of his life. Pastor Johnson cautions us to take care of our bodies and souls as well as our spirit. The enemy loves to cause you to miss sleep, not hydrate, abuse our bodies by not eating healthy food and not getting exercise. This can be as simple as drinking more water, getting a walk in each day, taking time for a healthy meal, and not filling your life with things that distract. Evan Roberts did not take care of his health, missed many meals and much sleep. He became paranoid and had somewhat of a nervous breakdown.
If we are to love others as we love ourselves; the second commandment Jesus emphasized, we must take care of these “earth suits” God gave to house our spirits here on earth. Many have thought it spiritual to abuse their bodies through neglect and overwork.
Psalm 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep.
I hope this post is causing you to think about unanswered prayers. Will you take time today to bring them before the Lord once again? He is not slow, but comes at just the right time; waiting for the harvest to develop and increasing your relationship with God and people. I pray you find the Lord’s great Shalom. Walk in His peace and joy, my dear readers and I shall join you again next week.
Musings along life's journey 