REVIVE 2025
To revive someone’s emotional spirits or motivation means to restore their enthusiasm, confidence, or sense of purpose.
In the early chapters of Revelation, Jesus calls His followers to “get things straight” with Him, urging the churches to reflect on their spiritual state and to realign their lives according to His teachings. This theme of renewal and repentance resonates deeply with His teachings during His ministry on earth, particularly in Luke 6, where He emphasizes the profound importance of love, kindness, and compassion. Jesus challenges His followers to embody these values, even towards their enemies, and to cultivate a spirit of generosity of kind acts towards others.
Moreover, psychological research, particularly by Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, reinforces this idea by demonstrating that when we focus on giving and engaging in acts of kindness, we not only uplift those around us but also experience a revival in our own emotional states. The principle of reciprocity comes into play: as we give of ourselves—through kindness, love, and support—we ultimately receive renewed energy and happiness in return.
Together, these insights from Jesus’s messages in Revelation and His teachings in Luke, combined with the findings from modern psychological research, illustrate a the how of revival.
To revive means to restore to life, consciousness, or a state of vigor. This concept is vividly illustrated in the first three chapters of the Book of Revelation, where Jesus speaks to seven churches in Asia Minor. Through His messages, Jesus seeks to revive the spiritual fervor and faithfulness of these early Christian communities. He commends their strengths, corrects their shortcomings, and provides guidance on how to rekindle their dedication and enthusiasm for their faith. Let’s explore how Jesus addresses each church, calling them to a renewed commitment and spiritual vitality.
REVIVE 2025
Breakdown of Jesus’ Messages to Each Church
Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7)
Commendation: They work hard, reject evil, and test false apostles.
Correction: They have "forsaken the love they had at first." They are warned about losing their "first love" for Jesus.
Call to Action: Jesus urges them to repent, return to their initial passion for Him, and do the works they did at the beginning of their faith.
Promise: Those who overcome will eat from the tree of life in God’s paradise.
Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11)
Commendation: Jesus acknowledges their suffering, poverty, and spiritual wealth.
Correction: No correction is given; instead, Jesus reassures them.
Call to Action: He encourages them to remain faithful, even unto death.
Promise: The faithful will receive the crown of life and will not be hurt by the second death.
Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17)
Commendation: Jesus commends them for holding fast to their faith, even in a city known for persecution.
Correction: He warns them against tolerating teachings that lead to immorality and idolatry (specifically, the teachings of Balaam and the Nicolaitans).
Call to Action: They are called to repent and remove these corrupt influences.
Promise: To those who overcome, Jesus promises hidden manna and a new name on a white stone.
Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29)
Commendation: Jesus praises them for their love, faith, service, and perseverance.
Correction: He rebukes them for tolerating Jezebel, a false prophet who leads people into immorality and idolatry.
Call to Action: Jesus calls them to repent and warns of judgment for those who continue in sin.
Promise: Those who overcome will be given authority over nations and the “morning star.”
Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6)
Commendation: Few in Sardis have remained faithful.
Correction: Jesus criticizes them for being spiritually dead despite their reputation for being alive.
Call to Action: He calls them to wake up, strengthen what remains, and complete their deeds.
Promise: Those who overcome will be dressed in white and their names will not be blotted out from the Book of Life.
Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13)
Commendation: They have kept God’s word and not denied His name, showing patient endurance.
Correction: No correction is given; instead, Jesus reassures them.
Call to Action: Jesus encourages them to hold on to what they have, so no one takes their crown.
Promise: Those who overcome will become pillars in God’s temple and will receive God’s name.
Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22)
Commendation: No specific praise is given to this church.
Correction: Jesus rebukes them for being “lukewarm,” spiritually complacent, and self-satisfied.
Call to Action: He urges them to become spiritually rich, clothed, and healed through Him, and to be earnest in repentance.
Promise: Those who overcome will be invited to sit with Jesus on His throne.
Overall Purpose of Jesus’ Messages
Jesus’s messages in Revelation 1-3 aim to refine the churches' faith and commitment, urging them to correct specific spiritual weaknesses while remaining faithful under pressure. His messages emphasize the importance of love, endurance, integrity, repentance, and the promise of eternal reward for those who persevere in faith.
The overall purpose of Jesus’s messages to the seven churches in Revelation is to revive their spiritual commitment, encouraging each congregation to overcome weaknesses and rekindle their devotion. The goal is to lift them from apathy or discouragement and empower them to move forward with renewed vigor and optimism. To revive someone’s emotional spirits or motivation means to restore their enthusiasm, confidence, or sense of purpose. This can involve several aspects:
Encouragement: Offering support, praise, or affirmation to help someone regain confidence or feel valued.
Inspiration: Sharing uplifting stories, experiences, or ideas that rekindle a person’s passion or interest in a particular goal or activity.
Connection: Engaging in meaningful conversations or activities that help individuals feel connected to others, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Self-Care: Promoting practices that improve mental well-being, such as mindfulness, exercise, or creative outlets, which can help individuals feel more energized and positive.
God wants to revive us. There are prompts in the Bible to stir ourselves up in our holy faith. My theory is that we have a role to play in reviving. This is different from revival, as yes God is sovereign and He moves as He pleases. But we can revive and this is a psychological principle that has to do with mental health techniques and happiness strategies.
In March 2024, I spoke at and participated in the University for Peace’s Gross Global Happiness Summit where our Keynote Speaker Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky shared her research and findings on the role of kindness as the only factor that contributes to ‘sustained’ happiness. So, when we help others, this fosters growth, therefore; instead of focusing on reviving ourselves, let’s see how we can increase the happiness of those around us. How does this translate to revive? It’s the same principle. Jesus told us to give and it would be given to us..good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over. He spoke of kind acts, which is what Dr. Sonja’s research has proven to increase that ‘revive’ in us.
"Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." — Luke 6:38
from the left Mohit Mukherjee, Ilma Tikki, Alexia Georghiou, Tarek Saker, Gillian Mandich, Raj Raghunathan, front center: Sonja Lyubomirsky
My colleague Tarek Saker snagged this photo, @dynamitetraining
Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a prominent researcher in the field of positive psychology, has conducted extensive research on how acts of kindness within relationships can boost personal happiness and emotional well-being. Her studies show that engaging in kindness for others not only strengthens relationships but also revives one's own sense of energy and happiness. Here’s a summary of her findings:
Key Insights from Sonja Lyubomirsky’s Research on Kindness and Happiness
Acts of Kindness Boost Happiness
Lyubomirsky’s research demonstrates that small, intentional acts of kindness—such as listening attentively, offering help, or showing appreciation—create a positive feedback loop. When we are kind to others, especially loved ones, it reinforces positive feelings and leads to increased happiness in ourselves as well as those we interact with.
Why it Revives Us: These acts tap into a fundamental human need for connection and purpose. When we act kindly, we reinforce a sense of meaning, and this can elevate our mood and boost our overall energy levels.
Increased Positive Emotions and Reduced Stress
Practicing kindness within relationships has been shown to decrease stress and foster positive emotions. This is partly due to the release of “feel-good” chemicals, such as oxytocin and dopamine, that occur when we give or receive kindness.
Why it Revives Us: Oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, making us feel calmer and more connected. These positive physiological responses help replenish emotional reserves and promote resilience.
Strengthened Relationships and Social Connections
Kindness in relationships nurtures trust, compassion, and emotional intimacy. Lyubomirsky found that couples and close friends who practice regular kindness have more stable, resilient relationships, which in turn enhances their sense of security and support.
Why it Revives Us: A strong support system and deep connections are powerful buffers against stress and emotional burnout. When we invest kindness in others, we also enhance our support network, which boosts our happiness and sense of well-being.
Reviving Our Spirits: The Transformative Power of Kindness in Research and Faith
In both Lyubomirsky's findings and Jesus's teachings, we see a clear connection: obedience to the principles of kindness and love is key to reviving our emotional states. Jesus instructs us that genuine kindness, especially towards those who may not reciprocate, serves as a foundation for authentic relationships and personal fulfillment.
Luke 6 encapsulates the heart of His message about living in accordance with the values of the Kingdom of God. Jesus delivers several key teachings, including the Beatitudes and instructions on loving others. Here’s an overview of His teachings in this chapter:
1. The Beatitudes (Luke 6:20-23)
Jesus begins with blessings for those who are poor, hungry, weeping, or persecuted, emphasizing that they will be blessed and rewarded in God’s kingdom. He assures that:
The poor will inherit the Kingdom of God.
The hungry will be satisfied.
Those who weep will find joy.
Those who are hated and excluded for following Him will have a great reward in heaven.
2. Warnings (Luke 6:24-26)
Jesus gives warnings to those who are rich, well-fed, laughing, or praised by people. He highlights that:
The rich have received their comfort.
Those who are full now will experience hunger.
Those who laugh will mourn.
Those praised by everyone should be cautious, as this was how false prophets were treated.
3. Love for Enemies (Luke 6:27-36)
Jesus teaches radical love, calling His followers to:
Love their enemies and do good to those who hate them.
Bless those who curse them and pray for those who hurt them.
Offer the other cheek when slapped and to give freely to anyone who asks.
Treat others as they want to be treated.
Lend without expecting to be repaid, and be merciful, as God is merciful.
4. Judging Others (Luke 6:37-42)
Jesus warns against judging or condemning others:
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”
He encourages forgiving others, and that generosity will be returned abundantly.
Jesus emphasizes focusing on one's own faults before criticizing others, using the metaphor of removing the plank from one’s own eye before pointing out the speck in another's.
5. A Tree and Its Fruit (Luke 6:43-45)
Jesus explains that people are recognized by their actions, like trees by their fruit:
Good trees produce good fruit, and bad trees produce bad fruit.
The words people speak reflect what is in their hearts.
6. Building on a Solid Foundation (Luke 6:46-49)
Jesus concludes with a parable comparing two builders:
The wise builder hears and obeys Jesus’s teachings, building a strong foundation like a house on solid rock.
The foolish builder hears but does not act, building a house on sand that collapses in storms.
These teachings in Luke 6 lay out Jesus’s vision of a life marked by compassion, humility, generosity, and an unwavering foundation in His teachings.
Practical Ways to Apply Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky’s Findings to Increase Happiness
Plan Small Acts of Kindness Regularly: Make a conscious effort to perform simple acts of kindness, like giving a compliment or helping out with daily tasks.
Express Gratitude to Loved Ones: Take time to thank friends, family members, or partners regularly. This gratitude strengthens bonds and reminds us of the support we receive in return.
Practice Active Listening: Give others your full attention, showing genuine interest in their thoughts and experiences, which strengthens your connection and creates more positive interactions.
Overall, Lyubomirsky’s work highlights that kindness in relationships is a powerful way to enhance our mental health. By focusing on thoughtful actions and connecting deeply with others, we can revive and sustain our own well-being while enriching our relationships.
This is obedience to the word of God: giving with compassionate acts of kindness.
Instead of focusing on ourselves, we will obey Jesus and look at how to effectively revive someone’s emotional state, with these actionable steps.
1. Acknowledge and Listen
Action: Create a safe space for them to express their feelings without judgment.
Why: People often need to feel heard and validated before they can move forward emotionally.
How: Ask open-ended questions, actively listen, and offer empathy without trying to "fix" things right away.
2. Offer Encouragement and Practical Support
Action: Help them set small, achievable goals to build confidence and create positive momentum.
Why: Small accomplishments can reawaken a sense of purpose and motivation.
How: Break down larger goals into manageable steps, and check in regularly to offer encouragement as they progress. Celebrate each step forward, no matter how small.
3. Engage in Positive, Energizing Activities Together
Action: Encourage activities that boost well-being and creativity, such as exercise, art, or simply spending time in nature.
Why: Engaging in healthy activities can lift moods and combat feelings of apathy.
How: Invite them to join you for a walk, a workout, or a creative project. Even a short activity can help them reconnect with joy and regain emotional energy.
It’s important to recognize that our bodies, minds, nervous systems, and spirits are interconnected. Neglecting one aspect affects the others. For example, poor mental health can directly impact our spiritual well-being, making it difficult to engage with Jesus and the Holy Spirit effectively.
To strengthen our spiritual lives, we also need to address our mental challenges. By clearing mental clutter, we can better focus on the Word of God and reconnect with our faith. Research in psychology shows that mental clarity enhances our ability to engage spiritually. Addressing mental health is necessary for spiritual growth and connection.
Here are some examples of how mental challenges can hinder our spiritual engagement and make it difficult to listen to God or desire to read the Bible:
Anxiety and Worry: When overwhelmed by anxiety, our minds can become preoccupied with fear and uncertainty. This mental state can distract us from focusing on God’s promises and make it hard to find peace in prayer or scripture reading.
Depression: Feelings of hopelessness or lethargy can sap our motivation to engage with spiritual practices. When someone is depressed, they may lack the energy or desire to read the Bible or seek a relationship with God, feeling disconnected from faith.
Racing Thoughts: A mind filled with constant racing thoughts or distractions can prevent us from settling down to read and reflect on scripture. If we can’t quiet our minds, it becomes challenging to listen for God’s guidance.
Guilt and Shame: Struggling with feelings of guilt or shame can create a barrier between us and God. We might feel unworthy of approaching Him, which can lead to avoidance of spiritual practices, including prayer and Bible reading.
Burnout: Mental exhaustion from work, personal obligations, or emotional stress can lead to spiritual burnout. When we feel depleted, we might neglect our spiritual disciplines, including studying the Bible, because we don’t have the mental capacity to engage meaningfully.
Negative Thought Patterns: Persistent negative thoughts about oneself or one’s circumstances can lead to a skewed perception of God’s character. If someone believes they are unworthy of God’s love or that their situation is hopeless, they may withdraw from engaging with scripture that could offer comfort and truth.
Isolation: Mental health struggles can lead to social withdrawal, which means missing out on community support and encouragement from fellow believers. This isolation can make it even harder to engage with God and His Word, as we lack the relational context that often facilitates spiritual growth.
By recognizing how these mental challenges impact our spiritual lives, we can better understand the importance of addressing mental health as a part of our daily routine.
Jesus is calling us to repentance. By caring for ourselves—spirit, soul, and body—we create conditions to revive. Embracing these principles allows us to experience a deeper connection with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
It is through repentance and acts of kindness that we find the keys to revive our spirits.
1 Corinthians 2:16
"For who can know the Lord's thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him? But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ."
Let’s do our part and He will do His part, in His time, His way. Who are we to instruct Him?
Daniel 4:35
"All the people of the earth are nothing compared to him. He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him or say to him, 'What do you mean by doing these things?'"
Isaiah 46:9-10
"Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish."
Today is the day to revive. We are instructed to redeem the time because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:16
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