Give Me Peoria, Or I Die

Give Me Peoria, Or I Die

In the mid 1500’s, a pastor by the name of John Knox was working tirelessly to further the spread of the gospel in Scotland. His passion for seeing others saved was so strong that he once famously prayed “Give me Scotland, or I die.” This wasn’t meant as an arrogant demand on God but rather the passionate prayer of a man who valued Jesus above even his physical life. Through the providence of God and after many years of prayer and gospel preaching, Knox witnessed massive revival come to Scotland.  Many thousands of people came to faith as a whole nation was transformed by the truth of the gospel.

Knox was famous for his boldness and courage against those who ruled his country and yet opposed God. This was because Knox feared God and understood the biblical idea behind Matthew 10:28: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”

In our context today, I wonder if we have the same boldness and passion for seeing our friends and neighbors saved. Can you truly proclaim, “Give me Peoria, or I die?”  Is Jesus worth this much to you?  I have to believe we would see more revival if each of us were were to make such a proclamation. Would you commit to making this your prayer today?