The Blessedness of Obedience
Revival comes naturally through obedience to God's laws and the clear guidance of His Word.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true revival requires more than mere words and prayers; it necessitates a genuine return to obedience to God's commands. He illustrates this with the story of Joshua, who faced defeat due to Israel's sin, highlighting that God's blessings are contingent upon our adherence to His covenant. Tozer warns against the futility of seeking revival while ignoring God's requirements, urging believers to embrace obedience as the pathway to experiencing God's presence and blessings. He encourages the congregation to read and act upon God's Word, assuring them that revival will follow as naturally as a harvest after planting. The decision to pursue obedience and revival lies within each individual.
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It will take more than talk and prayer to bring revival. There must be a return to the Lord in practice before our prayers will be heard in heaven. We dare not continue to trouble God's way if we want Him to bless ours. Joshua sent his army up to conquer Ai, only to see them hurled back with bloody losses. He threw himself to the ground on his face before the Ark and complained to the Lord. The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant . . . That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies . . . because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction" (Joshua 7:10-12).
If we are foolish enough to do it, we may spend the new year vainly begging God to send revival, while we blindly overlook His requirements and continue to break His laws. Or we can begin now to obey and learn the blessedness of obedience. The Word of God is before us. We have only to read and do what is written there and revival is assured. It will come as naturally as the harvest comes after the plowing and the planting.
Yes, this could be the year the revival comes. It's strictly up to us.
Sermon Outline
- The Necessity of Obedience
- The Consequences of Disobedience
- The Blessings of Obedience
- Obedience leads to revival and blessing
- The Word of God is clear and accessible
- Revival comes naturally through obedience
Key Quotes
“We dare not continue to trouble God's way if we want Him to bless ours.” — A.W. Tozer
“Revival will come as naturally as the harvest comes after the plowing and the planting.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We must return to the Lord in practice and obey His laws if we want to experience revival and God's blessing.
- Our prayers will be answered when we obey God's requirements and follow His laws.
- Revival is a natural consequence of obedience to God's Word and laws.