But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.

1 Corinthians 1:25-27 (NIV)

 

The Methodist movement was essentially a revival movement. Aside from the strong pulpit presence, great hymns, and a deep sense of holiness and social reform, John Wesley's ministry and the early Methodist pioneers had a more supernatural aspect that we rarely hear about today.

Without a deep heart cry for God, John Wesley would not have experienced a new kindling of Scripture and Spirit that strangely warmed his heart. That prayer sparked a new wave of spiritual awakening, resulting in societal transformation and profound change not only in his country, but all over the world. What God did in and through this one man not only left an indelible mark during his lifetime, but we can still feel the impact today.

Although Wesley is no longer with us, he still speaks to us by the example of his faith. If we consider ourselves to be true inheritors of such a rich heritage, shouldn't Wesley's experience inspire us to want God to do the same in our lives?

Everyone needs a fresh encounter with God that is so personal and tangible that they will never be the same again. Such a revival is not a "once in a while" event designed to satisfy our desire to "feel" God again, as if He had vanished. Rather, this revival is all about intimacy with Jesus and a strong desire to be with Him.

There is no reason to conjure or concoct intense feelings of emotionalism and call it "revival." We simply need to pray and believe that God has every intention and desire to bring us into an intimate relationship with Him, so that our passion for God leads to compassion for others. That is what happened to Wesley. When God touched his heart, he touched his nation for God. As we worship God with a revived heart and a renewed mind, we will notice that God is undoubtedly doing something in our midst to free us for a greater work of His Spirit.