What Now?

2 Chronicles 7:11-14

Scripture is true and reliable. When we read about how the Lord related to His people in Bible times, we should look for application to our own lives. Too often, Christians allow themselves to think divine judgment could never happen today. But what does the record show?
Today’s passage reveals that judgment could, in fact, befall those God loves. These verses concern “My people” – not some pagan nation – and turning away from the heavenly Father would result in pestilence and drought. But verse 14 also reveals God’s plan to rescue a nation under judgment. We believers are to:
Humble ourselves. We must acknowledge God’s right to rule over us.
Pray. This describes heartfelt crying out to the Lord (Psalm 34:17) rather than simply a bringing of requests before Him. We are to pray out of a sense of desperation and helplessness.
Seek His face. We are to have a longing in our hearts to know God’s will for ourselves as well as for our nation.
Turn from our wicked ways. Wickedness encompasses everything that is opposed to God, including immorality and all manner of corruption. If we join hands with the wicked, whether by actively participating or by doing nothing to remove them from a position of influence, we ourselves are guilty before God.
God wants to heal our land, which is ignoring biblical principle and turning to its own ways. He is the only one who is able to protect our nation. Christians, call upon Him!

Daily Devotions with Dr. Charles Stanlley, InTouch Ministries