I'm writing this from my hotel room in Yangon, Myanmar, which was known prior to the 1988 uprising as Rangoon, Burma. The Burmese people have not enjoyed the same freedoms we have in America; being here makes me more aware that often we don't truly appreciate what we have, until it's taken away.
In this uprising, the people protested the oppressive government, resulting in thousands being killed and martial law being declared. The people rallied behind the leader of this opposition party, called the National League for Democracy (NLD), demanding a democratic election.
The government, known as the SLORC (State Law and Order Restoration Council), promised an election would be held in May of 1989; but before the election took place, nearly all the NLD leaders were placed under arrest and the election postponed. It is estimated that 85% of the population supported the opposition party, but corruption within the SLORC runs very deep.
They have refused to hear the cries of the people. Human rights have been violated, the economy is in shambles, HIV/Aids is rampant, and persecution toward the Christian churches is severe.
In the midst of this, there is a hunger for God in the people that brings tears to your eyes. It seems the more desperate the circumstances, the greater their hunger for God. Their hunger for God challenges you to begin searching your own heart.
It's tragic that in America, this hunger for God is not so apparent. Could it be that in America, our hunger for God has been replaced by our hunger for material possessions and our "need" for entertainment? Or could it be we've simply become so self-centered and comfortable enjoying the blessings of God for ourselves, we've lost sight of His purpose in blessing us?
Scripture reveals a very important truth in Proverbs 3:13-18:
Blessed is the one who finds wisdom and the one who obtains understanding. The profit gained from wisdom is greater than the profit gained from silver. Its yield is better than fine gold.The focus of our attention should be "finding wisdom," because in finding wisdom, we obtain understanding, experience the fulfillment of our hearts' desires, receive the promise of a long life full of peace, riches, and honor. Anyone with minimal brain function would want a life like that! Right?
Wisdom is more precious than jewels, and all your desires cannot equal it. Long life is in wisdom's right hand. In wisdom's left hand are riches and honor. Wisdom's ways are pleasant ways, and all its paths lead to peace. Wisdom is a tree of life for those who take firm hold of it. Those who cling to it are blessed.
If America is to experience a genuine move of God, an outpouring of the Spirit, that presently is taking place in countries around the world, then it will take a paradigm shift. We must return to the foundation of our faith.
We must allow Him to be highest priority, and refuse to chase after the "blessings" of life. We must be seekers of Him, the One that blesses! It's only through our hunger for Him that we will see revival in our own life, our church, and in our nation.