Isaiah 57

“For thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.’” (Isaiah 57:15, NKJV)

What is the greatest need in our nation? Is it political, economic, or for national security? I believe that our greatest need is for spiritual revival. Most of our other problems would be quickly solved if people would sincerely trust in God and obey His commandments. But there is one obstacle that keeps this from happening: pride. The pride of people causes them to excuse their own sins and blame others. Pride blinds us to our true spiritual need; it deafens our ears so that we do not hear the Lord’s voice.

But when a person turns from pride and humbles himself before God, then God takes notice. While God always dwells in the high and holy place of heaven, He also dwells with those who have a contrite and humble spirit. When God finds such a humble heart, He makes it His throne. He begins to work in that person to revive his spirit and make him an ambassador of heaven.

If we truly understood this spiritual principle, then we would make it our chief object of concerted and fervent prayer. “Break our hearts over our own sins and the sins of our nation. Help us to humble ourselves beneath your mighty hand.”

“But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:13–14, NLT)

“Father, please help us to humble ourselves and turn from our sins so that you can revive our spirits and heal our land.”