Day 5

What if?

14 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

Slowly, the America I have grown to love and cherish has changed. At first, the changes appeared to be subtle, but then increasingly starker and more alarming over time. Recently, Patti Garibay observed, "America's Spiritual Failure is at risk." I suspect her fears emerge from the continual slide of spirituality and religious fervor, especially among our nation's younger generations. A recent Barna survey noted that 30% of our population consider themselves "nones," meaning no affiliation or desire to pursue a spiritual life. This news underlines the report from Gallop that 18% of Americans consider themselves neither religious nor spiritual.

What should we do in response? In this spiritual drought, how do we bring showers of blessing on our land? We would be wise to take to heart the words the LORD uttered to King Solomon. At the dedication of the Temple, He warned that when He sought to get the attention of His people, He would be looking for the following response.

"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)

What if we did what the LORD required? Only God can forgive and heal the land, but He also calls on His people, you, and me, to do our part. We cannot change our neighbors; however, we can surrender our hearts and lives to His will. The change our nation desperately needs must begin first with you and me.

Application: Set aside time this week to examine your heart and life as you ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to where and how your life might be out of step with His will. Then surrender your life to do His will with a pure heart.

Written By: Dr. David Lowrie