Asaph’s Revival
The more I read and study Psalm 73, the greater my appreciation for the individual known as Asaph. Even though he is following the leadership of the Spirit of God in making this declaration, I am amazed at the honesty with which he does so! Without reservation, he reveals the sordid contents of his own heart that were instrumental in the corruption of his spiritual habitation. He found his habitation to be a place of deliberate activity accompanied by dwindling affections. He is physically present but not personally passionate in his work and worship of God! Such honesty was not always the case! There was a time when shame silenced his lips to avoid spilling the polluted content of his heart; “If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children” (vs.15). Asaph set a guard upon his lips; others must not be permitted to hear the sinful resolutions that were muttered in the chambers of his inner man. Asaph could not permit those who followed to know that their guide had lost his way!
There was a time when shame stagnated the process of learning to avoid the sting associated with the knowledge of known sin; “When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me” (vs.16). Asaph could not allow others to know that he was adrift with a faulty compass that pointed to the ways of the world rather than the wealth of the Word. He must project a false front that depicts the benefits and blessings of the abundant life while being deprived of its spiritual nutrients that not only sustain but promote true spiritual health. Others must not see him as he sees himself; much less as God sees him.
While that’s the way it was; it is no longer! Asaph has been the recipient of spiritual revival and others must know of its benefits and bountiful blessings! The light shined into the darkness exposing all; “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do” (Hebrews 4:12-13). Asaph’s woeful plight had not been hidden from “The Beloved” and he would no longer make an attempt to hide it from the brethren.
From the pinnacle atop the summit of personal revival, Asaph cast a discerning eye upon the path to spiritual liberation. It is a journey that must be shared with those who would follow; they must be enlightened to the slippery steps of spiritual infidelity that is followed by the soured spirit of carnality. At the same time, they must be educated on the sufficient supply of the Saviour thus enhancing their steadfast satisfaction in the Sovereign.
This is an excerpt from “SonLight on Redemption & Revival” the latest work of Evangelist Dr. Bob Sanders. To read other Enjoying the Journey articles by Bro. Sanders, click HERE.
