July 22, 2013 [Life Happens]
2 Chronicles 6:12-42
I'm impressed by the wisdom of Solomon and the heartfelt prayer that he prays for the people of Israel at the dedication of the temple. He begins standing on the bronze platform with his arms spread wide. But then he kneels down before the entire assembly of people with his hands spread out toward heaven and begins to pray. Here are a few things that stand out to me:
1. There is no God like You, period. (v. 14)
2. He reminds God of His covenant promises.
3. The use of the word "when"
- when a man wrongs his neighbor
- when Your people have been defeated by an enemy because of their sin against You
- when there is no rain because Your people have sinned against You
- when disasters come
- when a foreigner prays to You
- when we go to war
- WHEN THEY SIN AGAINST YOU-for there is no one who does not sin
4. If they have a change of heart and pray and turn back to you with all of their hearts, then hear their prayers and forgive Your people.
The honesty of Solomon's prayer is what I need in my prayer life as well. It is that raw acknowledgement of the reality that "life happens" - disasters, sin, conflict, battles, times of draught (physical, financial, spiritual, etc.). But in as much as he acknowledges that life happens, he also recognizes that we have a responsibility to how we respond to life happening. Having a healthy relationship with God requires humble repentance. It's more than just saying that we're sorry. It's making the decision to make an about-face on the things that we have done against God and His will.
Have you ever said (or heard someone say), "I could never forgive somebody if they _____ ?" I'm so glad that God is not like that. If we're willing to confess, repent and turn to Him, He's always willing to hear us and forgive.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humblethemselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (1 Peter 3:9)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 Jn 1:9)
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