You don't have to look far to see that the church in America is seemingly in decline. I have seen some reports that say 88% of young adults will leave the church upon graduating and others stating that only about 18% of Americans actually attend church. Studies also show that the increase in the number of churches is only about ONE EIGHTH of what is needed to keep up with population growth! This decline is nothing new, it has quietly been occurring through out the history of our country. I recently saw a news story in my city (Denver) that said 92% of people don't attend church! Wow!! John Wesley said "what one generation tolerates the the next generation will celebrate". We could very well be looking at the last Christian generation!
I am not sounding the alarm to be afraid. But the truth is, no amount of innovative ideas or great programing can curve this trend! We need a move of God! The Lord said in Zechariah 4:6 that its "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty". This is also not the first time the church has been in a prolonged apathetic state as it is now. It has only been the fervent repentance of God's people that has brought about a great awakening leading to a great harvest. This is what we need now!
I challenge you to examine your hearts (as do I) and repent of any hidden sin. Before there can be fullness of the Spirit in our lives there must be complete emptiness of ourselves. This great awakening will only come through the remnant people of God walking in repentance, obedience and holiness as we are "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" 1 peter 2:9. We are the incarnated church, the "go between" for the people of this world. We carry the truth of the gospel in our everyday devotion and actions! We must be holy for His spirit to completely fill us and work though us! It is time for God's people to repent and pray for a great outpouring of His Spirit!
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