Nico Smit’s It’s Time to Go Up! is a passionate, personal, and deeply convicting book about pursuing a life of revival and intimacy with God. Smit makes it clear from the beginning that this isn’t just a book; it’s a call to action. Through personal stories, biblical reflections, and a relentless emphasis on worship, prayer, and obedience, he urges readers to leave behind complacency and step into a life of spiritual awakening. The book focuses on the idea that revival starts with the individual, not just churches or large gatherings. It’s about saying “yes” to God’s invitation to go deeper, higher, and closer in faith.

One thing I really appreciated was the intensity and urgency of Smit’s writing. He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. At times, I found myself nodding along, convicted by his words, especially when he talks about the difference between visiting God’s presence and living in it. He compares many Christians to people who only check in with God when they’re in trouble, rather than abiding in Him every moment​. It made me pause and reflect.

Another thing that stood out was Smit’s emphasis on prayer. He doesn’t treat it as a religious obligation but as the heartbeat of a real relationship with God. He describes prayer as the gateway to transformation, not just a routine or a checklist item. I loved how he linked prayer with going “higher,” not physically but spiritually. He makes a strong case that prayer lifts us out of earthly distractions and into a heavenly mindset. His writing on this topic isn’t just informative; it’s inspiring. You can tell he’s not just talking about theory; this is how he actually lives.

One of my favorite parts of the book was Chapter 9: Revival Starts with You. Smit challenges the idea that revival is some massive event that just happens. Instead, he insists that revival is deeply personal; it starts in the heart before it ever reaches a community​. I loved his analogy of revival being like a seed planted in the soil of our personal lives. It grows in secret, in those quiet moments with God, long before anyone sees its impact. That idea stuck with me. It’s easy to want change in the world, in churches, in society but Smit reminds us that real change begins when we get serious about our own faith first.

It’s Time to Go Up! is the perfect read for anyone who feels stuck, dry, or just going through the motions in their faith. This book will challenge you, push you, and maybe even make you a little uncomfortable, but in the best way. It’s not a passive read. Smit writes with fire, and you can feel his passion on every page. If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to pursue a deeper, more committed relationship with God, this is the book.

Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0DTQ68FNK