Finding Revival

Are you in need of finding revival in your own life? If so, this post is for you.
We often wish that following God meant moving seamlessly from one triumph to another, as described in 2 Corinthians 3:18. However, it doesn’t always feel that way. We have valleys of despair and waning faith, commitments in the world that draw us away from His presence.

Yet God is never truly silent or hidden. Even when we feel distant, His Word assures us otherwise. When God seems to always be an afterthought, meditating on Psalms 120–134 can serve as a powerful guide. These psalms have the potential to lift our hearts to higher ground (Psalm 61:2) and in doing so, allow us the joy of finding revival in ourselves.

The Psalms of Ascents

Known as the “Psalms of Ascents”, they capture the essence of a journey—one of intentional movement toward God and deeper relationship with Him, a way of finding revival. These psalms don’t offer instant solutions, but rather provide a framework for patiently seeking God through every step of the way.

For me, emerging from seasons of apathy towards my faith often starts with a fifteen-day reflection on the Psalms of Ascents—one chapter each day. On day one, I begin with Psalm 120, identifying with the writer’s cry from a place of distress: *“In my distress I called to the Lord”* (Psalm 120:1, ESV). Though the writer’s exact situation is unknown, distress is something we all understand.

The psalmist continues: *“Deliver me, O Lord, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue”* (Psalm 120:2, ESV). This verse reminds me to approach God with complete honesty—there’s no sense in pretending otherwise. Sometimes, the most faithful thing we can say is: *“Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace”* (Psalm 120:6, ESV). Psalm 120 invites us to unburden our grief, sorrow, and anxiety before God.

The psalm also offers a beautiful assurance: *“And he answered me”* (Psalm 120:1, ESV). God hears us when we call, though His response may not always be immediate or obvious. Sometimes, recognizing His voice takes patience and faith.

On day two, I turn to Psalm 121: *“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth”* (Psalm 121:1–2, ESV). Focusing on God’s greatness helps shift my perspective. If the Creator of heaven and earth is my source of help, surely He can handle whatever I’m facing.

It’s a simple but profound truth, especially when my heart is weighed down by anxiety: *“My help comes from the LORD.”* Sometimes I repeat this phrase throughout the day, and it always brings comfort.

A Daily Journey

Each day, for the next two weeks, I continue through the remaining Songs of Ascents. As I read, I choose a phrase that stands out and take note, reflecting on its meaning throughout the day. Slowly, my faith begins to rebuild. There may not be dramatic breakthroughs, and spiritual renewal doesn’t always come overnight. Yet, with every chapter, I feel myself inching closer to God, step by step.