“If my people who are called by My Name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (II Chronicles 7:14). What was the occasion and context of this often quoted verse from the Old Testament? It might be surprising to learn that God spoke these words in the midst of a celebration. King Solomon had completed the building of the temple. The people of Israel had gathered for the dedication in a spirit of praise and joy.
Knowing that His people would inevitably turn away from Him, God offered the remedy for their sin and failures. That remedy was prayer, humility, and a willingness to return to the God of mercy. The Lord further spoke to Solomon with the assuring words that when the people responded, His eyes would be open and His ears attentive to their prayers.
It is noteworthy that all of this applied to the people of God. The call was not to the heathen. Only those who know God and fall back into sin and apathy can return to that which they once knew. This was a clear call for repentance by those who belong to the Lord.
Today there is a need for believers in Christ to seek the Lord in humility and repentance. We must acknowledge that we have not put God at the top of our priority list. We have been content in our comfort and the pursuit of our pleasure. But the recent events have shaken us. May we see that the ultimate answer is found in returning to the God of mercy Who promises to hear us when we humbly pray. Join with our community in a time of prayer and repentance on Saturday, Sept. 26th, at 10:00 a.m. on South Main Street in Harrodsburg.
– Terry Morrison