If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
The key to understanding scripture is context. How does the verse relate to the passages that surround it? How does the verse relate to the Bible as a whole?
This text is made clear by the words that precede it. Solomon had just dedicated the temple and the Lord appeared to him giving warnings and reassurances.
2 Chronicles 7:12-14 KJV
And the Lord appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for a house of sacrifice. If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Consequences for Falling Away from God
The immediate context shows that God may send judgment on the land of Israel for the people not living Godly lives. Encouragingly, the Lord reassures that if his people turn from sin, he will hear, forgive and restore the land.
Have you fallen away from God? Has our nation fallen away? God is faithful to forgive those who will humble themselves and repent. We serve a God of justice. He loves us and he corrects us. He will also restore us.
Prayer: “Father God, search my heart. Lead me to understand your word and your will. Show me my errors and forgive me as I turn from them. Lead our nation into revival, that we may live by your will and that our land will be healed. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: He Trusts the Lord
