LATTER RAIN

Bible Study: LATTER RAIN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Joel 2:23 – "Be glad, O people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains in righteousness. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before."

Supporting Texts:
Zechariah 10:1
James 5:7-8
Hosea 6:3
Acts 2:17-18
Proverbs 16:15

INTRODUCTION:
The term "latter rain" refers to a season of spiritual outpouring and blessing that God promises to His people. In agricultural terms, the latter rain is crucial for ripening crops before harvest, symbolizing God's timing in our lives for spiritual growth and fulfillment. This study explores the significance of the latter rain in the spiritual context, the promises associated with it, and how we can position ourselves to receive this divine outpouring.

1. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE LATTER RAIN IN SCRIPTURE
The latter rain represents God's timing and provision for His people, particularly in the context of restoration and blessing.

a) Symbol of Restoration: The latter rain signifies a time of restoration after periods of drought and barrenness (Joel 2:25).

b) Divine Favor: God’s outpouring in the latter rain symbolizes His favor and grace upon His people (Hosea 6:3).

c) Preparation for Harvest: It prepares the hearts of believers for the coming harvest of souls (James 5:7).

d) Fulfillment of Promises: The latter rain is linked to the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people (Zechariah 10:1).

Biblical Example:
In the book of Ruth, Boaz represents a redeemer during a time of harvest, showing God's provision and restoration for Naomi and Ruth (Ruth 2:1-23).

2. THE OUTPOURING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The latter rain is often associated with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, signifying empowerment and revival.

a) Prophetic Fulfillment: The promise of the latter rain includes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17-18).

b) Empowerment for Service: Believers are empowered to fulfill the Great Commission through the Spirit’s anointing (Luke 4:18).

c) Gifts of the Spirit: The latter rain brings forth spiritual gifts for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).

d) Revival and Awakening: It signals a time of revival, where hearts are turned back to God (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Biblical Example:
The early church experienced the latter rain at Pentecost, resulting in bold preaching and a significant harvest of souls (Acts 2:41).

3. POSITIONING OURSELVES FOR THE LATTER RAIN
To receive the latter rain, believers must align their lives with God's purposes and expectations.

a) Repentance and Humility: A heart of repentance opens the way for God’s blessings (2 Chronicles 7:14).

b) Prayer and Intercession: Seeking God earnestly in prayer positions us for His outpouring (James 5:16).

c) Faith and Expectation: Believing in God’s promises creates an atmosphere for miracles (Hebrews 11:1).

d) Obedience to God's word:
Following God's commands ensures we walk in His favor (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

Biblical Example:
The people of Israel were called to repent and return to God to experience the latter rain, as demonstrated in the book of Joel (Joel 2:12-13).

4. THE RESULTS OF THE LATTER RAIN
Experiencing the latter rain leads to transformation and an abundant harvest in our lives and communities.

a) Spiritual Growth: Believers experience deepened faith and spiritual maturity (2 Peter 3:18).

b) Increased Fruitfulness: The latter rain leads to a bountiful harvest of souls and blessings (John 15:5).

c) Joy and Celebration: God's blessings result in joy and gratitude among His people (Psalm 126:5-6).

d) Impact on the Community: A church experiencing the latter rain will significantly influence its community (Matthew 5:14-16).

Biblical Example:
The outpouring at Pentecost led to thousands coming to faith, illustrating the powerful results of the latter rain (Acts 2:41).

5. THE HOPE OF THE LATTER RAIN IN THE LAST DAYS
The latter rain also points to a future outpouring in the last days, promising hope and revival.

a) End-Time Promises: Scripture indicates that God will pour out His Spirit in the last days (Acts 2:17).

b) Anticipation of Christ's Return: The latter rain encourages believers to prepare for Christ’s return (Matthew 24:42-44).

c) Empowerment for Last Days Harvest: Believers will be empowered to reach the lost in the final days (Matthew 28:19-20).

d) Faithful Stewardship: We must be good stewards of the gifts and anointing God gives during this time (1 Peter 4:10).

Biblical Example:
The parable of the ten virgins illustrates the need for readiness and anticipation of the coming of the Bridegroom (Matthew 25:1-13).

CONCLUSION:
The latter rain signifies a time of divine blessing, restoration, and empowerment for believers. As we align ourselves with God through repentance, prayer, and faith, we position ourselves to receive His abundant outpouring. In these last days, let us anticipate the latter rain, knowing that God desires to pour out His Spirit and bless His people in unprecedented ways.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I repent for any area in my life that may hinder Your outpouring.

2. Father, I ask for Your Holy Spirit to fill me anew during this season.

3. Lord, help me to be diligent in prayer and intercession for Your people.

4. Father, increase my faith and expectation for Your promises to be fulfilled.

5. Lord, may I walk in obedience to Your Word, aligning my life with Your will.

6. Father, I declare a season of spiritual growth and maturity in my life.

7. Lord, empower me to be a vessel for Your work in my community.

8. Father, I rejoice in the hope of Your coming and the promise of the latter rain.

9. Lord, help me to be a faithful steward of the gifts You have given me.

10. Father, I pray for a mighty outpouring of Your Spirit in these last days.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that you will experience the latter rain in every area of your life.

2. God will restore what has been lost and bring new blessings into your life.

3. You will be empowered to fulfill your purpose in this season of harvest.

4. I decree that your faith will grow stronger as you wait upon the Lord.

5. You will be a beacon of light and hope in your community.

6. I declare that you will see the fulfillment of God’s promises in your life.

7. Your life will be a testimony of God’s goodness and grace.

8. I decree a season of joy and celebration as you receive God’s blessings.

9. You will be ready and prepared for the coming of the Lord.

10. I declare that the latter rain will bring about a great revival in your life and church.