The Obstacle to Revival is Christians.

If revival is being withheld from us it is because some idol remains still enthroned; because we still insist in placing our reliance in human schemes; because we still refuse to face the unchangeable truth that, 'It is not by might, but by My Spirit.   Jonathan Goforth

What is the biggest obstacle to a revival?  Answer: Us.

God’s power is under His authority, and we have our own will.  As long as we allow our will to live, God cannot  control our ways.  If we are not under His authority, then how can He entrust us with His power?  If we do not have the power of God working in our lives, how can He use us to bring revival?

How do we bring revival? We can try to bring about a revival by making elaborate plans.  We would organize who will do what, and gather all the materials we think will be necessary.  Educate people on what to do and say so they have the “right techniques."  We set the time and bring in charimatic speakers who can preach powerful messages.  We have 24-hour  prayer going on to prepare the souls of those who attend.  Everything is in its place, and everything is absolutely perfect, except for one thing.  No one has turned to God for the guidance and power for the Revival.  We made all the plans ourselves and trust in our own strength.  We need to rest in God and not in any of our own efforts.  We didn’t allow God to work within us to bring about His power for the revival.  God still might work in some people's hearts, but not in the powerful manner He truly desires.

There is one question we really need to answer.  Is living our lives, the way we want, worth the loss of hundreds of souls?  Our prayers, plans and witness, should be filled with the power of God as He directs us in the way we should go.  It could make the difference in the eternal lives of our friends, relatives and in the lives of anyone who meets us.  Are we willing to sacrifice ourselves for others?  Is the loss of the control of our lives and will, worth giving if it means gaining eternal life for even one other person?

Are you willing to be Christ to those around you?  Are you willing to fulfill Luke 9:23 in your life?

 “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”

Photo Credit: the Big Gospel Tent revival by Brit