Revival Starts Here: Embracing the Lordship of Jesus
Mtbethelchurch October 31, 2024

True revival—both personal and communal—begins with a surrendered heart. Galatians 2:19-21 challenges us to recognize that the first step toward change in our communities and nation is our own transformation. “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” When we embrace Jesus not only as Savior but as Lord, we initiate a revival that can ripple out into our world. 

It’s in this surrender that we experience a personal revival—one that realigns us with God’s heart and shapes us to live out His purpose daily. When we truly grasp what it means for Jesus to be Lord of our lives, everything changes: 

  • The requests we make in our prayers become less about hopeful wishes and more about depending on Him for provision not just for our physical needs but for our spiritual endurance and growth 
  • Forgiveness of those who’ve hurt us becomes possible because we’ve been forgiven 
  • The stress of “will I have enough” is replaced with the peace of “God is sovereign and will provide for my daily needs” 
  • The love we share with others becomes deeper and wider because we’re empowered by the love our Heavenly Father lavishes on us 
  • The shame and worry that comes with thoughts of “am I worth it” is replaced by the assurance of His unfailing, unending grace 
  • We begin to see things and people around us the way God sees them because we’ve been given a new kingdom perspective 

When we choose the path of surrender, we find the strength to live counterculturally—prioritizing others, investing in God’s Kingdom, and making sacrifices that mirror Christ’s love. As we follow Him, we model a life that inspires change around us. 

When we allow God to transform our hearts, He will use us to bring transformation to our communities. True revival spreads outward, touching lives and inspiring others. It starts within us, one heart at a time. 

his post is inspired by message four of our “Awakening” sermon series, entitled “Surrendering to His Lordship” by Dr. Jody Ray.