Key verse:
Isaiah 57:15
Revival transforms hearts and communities, but certain sins can hinder its arrival. Based on a powerful message rooted in Isaiah 57:15, which declares, “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones,” three specific sins—selfishness, pride, and prayerlessness—stand as barriers to spiritual awakening. Understanding and addressing these sins can pave the way for true revival.
Selfishness: A Barrier to Revival
Selfishness prioritizes personal desires over God’s will, stifling the humility necessary for revival. When individuals prioritize their own comfort, ambitions, or resources over serving others, they resist the contrite spirit described in Isaiah 57:15. A self-centered heart cannot align with God’s desire to revive the humble. Overcoming selfishness requires surrendering personal agendas and embracing generosity, fostering a community ready for spiritual renewal.
Pride: The Enemy of Humility
Pride, the second sin, elevates self above God, blocking the contrite spirit essential for revival. Isaiah 57:15 emphasizes that God dwells with the humble, not the proud. Pride manifests in refusing correction, seeking personal glory, or relying on human strength instead of divine guidance. To experience revival, believers must humble themselves, acknowledging their dependence on God and aligning with His holy purpose.
Prayerlessness: Disconnecting from God’s Power
The third sin, prayerlessness, severs the vital connection to God’s reviving power. Without prayer, individuals and communities drift from the intimacy with God described in Isaiah 57:15. Prayer aligns hearts with God’s will, inviting His presence to spark revival. A commitment to consistent, fervent prayer is essential to remove this barrier and open the door to spiritual awakening.
Key Takeaways
- Selfishness must be replaced with generosity to foster a humble, revival-ready heart.
- Pride blocks God’s presence; humility aligns with His promise to revive the contrite.
- Prayerlessness hinders revival; fervent prayer restores connection with God.
Watch the whole sermon “Three Sins That Hinder Revival” on YouTube to dive deeper into overcoming these sins and preparing for revival.
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About the Speaker
Dr. Michael L. McClure
Senior Pastor
Dr. Michael L. McClure, our lead pastor, is known for his in-depth knowledge and effective teaching style of biblical truths applicable to everyday living.