"if my people who are called by my name 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." 2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV
Soon after Solomon had completed building the Temple, God appears to him in a dream. He promises he will dwell in the Temple, but there are conditions. The people must continue to be faithful to God. Bad things like drought, famine, and pestilence would still happen, but when the people humbled themselves and repented, God, assured Solomon, he would hear and answer their prayer.
In this passage is a word that has almost become extinct in our world, humility. We have become a nation fixated on our egos and individual accomplishments, often leaving God out of the picture entirely. When we shift the artificial human paradigm, from self to God, we see a change. This change happens first within ourselves then in our surrounding communities. In recognizing that we do not have everything under control, coming to God humbly in repentance, and asking for his help, we find forgiveness and healing.
God, we come to you today, giving thanks that you live in the temple of our souls. We freely and humbly admit that without you, we make a mess of things. God, we are tired of making messes. We come to you today humbly seeking repentance and asking your help. Please heal us, our neighbors, our communities, our nation, and the world. Let the whole world recognize your supreme rule. Let the Holy Spirit lead and guide us so we may act boldly in the things that glorify you. In your Son, and our Savior, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
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