A Layman’s Perspective on Change, Faith, and Relationship

What Happened During the Welsh Revival?

Back in the early 1900s, an ordinary man named Evan Roberts traveled through Wales, and wherever he went, something extraordinary happened. People who used to go to church just out of habit suddenly felt a deep need to change their lives. The Holy Spirit, which Christians believe is God’s presence and power, made people realize how far they were from God. This wasn’t just about feeling sorry for mistakes—it was a wake-up call that led to real changes in families, churches, and communities.

Signs of True Change

• Families started praying and reading the Bible together at home.
• Prayer meetings in churches became regular and enthusiastic.
• Bible sales soared because people were hungry to learn more about God.
• Everyone felt an urgency to share their faith and talk about Jesus.

It was more than just a religious event; it was a total change of heart.

Are We Ready for Revival?

This story reminds us to ask: if we pray for a revival—meaning lots of new people coming to faith—are our churches ready to help and care for them? It’s important to be prepared to support and guide new believers, not just celebrate their arrival.

Biblical Promises for Everyone

The Bible promises in books like Joel and Acts that God’s Spirit will be poured out on all people—men, women, young, old, no matter their background. That means God wants to be close to everyone and to help everyone experience Him in real, powerful ways. These experiences can look like:

• Dreams about God
• Visions of what God is doing
• Speaking about God’s goodness to others

When God is near, people are inspired to talk about Him and act for Him in their everyday lives. It’s not just for famous biblical figures—it’s for anyone who wants it.

The Difference Between Religion and Relationship

Sometimes we confuse following rules (religion) with knowing God personally (relationship). Here’s how they’re different:

• Religion says you have to look a certain way or act a certain way to come to God. Relationship says you can come just as you are, and God will work with you from the inside out.
• Religion teaches you to listen passively. Relationship encourages you to seek more—read the Bible, ask questions, and get to know God personally.
• Religion tells you only special people can do great things. Relationship reveals that the same Holy Spirit who empowered heroes in the Bible is available to you, so you can do great things too.
• Religion might make God seem distant. Relationship makes God your friend, someone you can talk to honestly and openly.
• Religion says you can’t defeat evil. Relationship says with the Holy Spirit, you have the power to overcome anything.
• Religion is satisfied with just attending church. Relationship is about growing deeper, seeking more, and living a life filled with God’s power.

God’s Promise Is for Everyone

God’s Spirit is for all people—no matter age, gender, or status. Moses wished that everyone could have God’s Spirit and speak on His behalf. The Bible says this promise isn’t limited to a select few, but is for anyone who believes and seeks God.

What About Forgiveness?

Forgiveness isn’t just letting go of grudges. It means being reconciled—making peace, healing relationships, and letting God restore broken parts of our lives. Forgiveness prepares us to receive more of God’s Spirit and live out the calling He has for us.

Why Does This Matter Today?

If we want what the early Welsh churches experienced—real change and excitement about God—we need to focus less on rules and more on genuine relationship with God. That means:

• Being honest with God
• Seeking understanding, wisdom, and personal spiritual growth
• Being prepared to help others as they discover faith

The Spirit calls everyone—including those who feel like reserves, waiting to be called into action—to step up, be equipped, and serve with love and power.

The Takeaway

You don’t need to be perfect or special to experience God. You just need to be open, ready to seek Him, and willing to let Him change you from the inside out. That’s how real revival happens—one life at a time, empowered by the Holy Spirit and marked by forgiveness, growth, and true relationship.

Minister A Francine Green

August 2025