Humility

 2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV

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. 


Christians rightly love this verse. Yet it was originally addressed to ancient Israel. How can we apply it to ourselves?

In the immediate context, God was addressing King Solomon of ancient Israel. Israel is literally called by God's name. It means prince of God/wrestler with God. El at the end of Isra-El is a generic name for God in the old testament.

Christians are called by God's name too. We are the people of Christ, the One anointed by the Holy Spirit to save us. He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords.

This verse is a great promise. Yet note that it is conditional on us humbling ourselves, praying, seeking God's face, and turning from our wicked ways. Either God revives his church, or else Christ will return to judge the world.

'God Most High, please hear from heaven, forgive our sins, and heal our lands. In Christ's name, amen'.


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