The Root of Revival Criticism

Anytime there has been a spiritual awakening it has not been without criticism. Satan will try to destroy the very work of renewal in many ways, But there is no more familiar form of trying to dilute the workings of a move of God than criticism.

Those who by unrighteousness and jealousy are apt to make less of the moving of the Spirit in lives because they themselves are unwilling to deal with God in certain areas of their lives and therefore they begin to tear down what God has done in those who did respond to the call of Christ for salvation and holiness. It is a very dangerous thing to question the work of the HolySpirit.

That said, be it far from us that when we would be criticized for claiming a great work of God within us; that it would not be on the merit of a past conflict left undone or even an ounce of unforgiveness toward someone. May we be sensitive to any ill will towards others, or even if someone has something against us... 

We are bound in times of revival to respond to those things that would be laid upon our hearts to deal with in order to be emptied of unrighteousness and in turn be filled with the HolySpirit.

Jesus said in Matthew chapter 5... If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

 If we are indeed to live a Spirit-filled life there must be no room for bitterness and conflict between us and others. Even the seemingly smallest issues can keep us from enjoying the full blessings of serving our sweet Saviour.

So allow me to encourage all of us to be sensitive to the Spirit regarding criticism towards what we claim Christ has wrought in us. It just may be that the critics are fueled by some foul bitterness, and it doesn't matter if what is amiss was our fault or if we are as innocent as a baby bird. If you know there is something there deal with it.

Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

-Matthew 18:15

It has been mentioned before in our precious Bible and is so true, Bitterness is the only sin mentioned that has a root... And what a strong root it has.

There is also a danger of bitterness taking root in those who have experienced revival when we hear the criticisms of others.

Don't allow Ol' Slewfoot to rob you of what you know is the undeniable work of God.

-Pastor Chad