If . . . my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. ~2 Chronicles 7:13–14
Hollywood often creates motion pictures that include scenes of deception. Because someone has been crafty enough to steal a military uniform, for example, they are granted entrance and given a chance to do their dastardly deeds. Oil refineries or military installations light the sky as they are incinerated by these dangerous frauds.
This theme is one that makes my heart pound. I have found myself wanting to call out loud in the theater, “Stop, he’s not really who you think he is. He’s not a soldier. He’s an imposter. Run for your life.” Fortunately, I can wait until I can download these movies, then shout to my heart’s content in the privacy of our living room. My family graciously puts up with these outbursts . . . most of the time.
God spoke to King Solomon in the night and made an incredible promise. This covenant, however, had some serious strings attached. God’s nocturnal message to the monarch was clear. If those who “bear” My name will live humbly and if those who “bear” My name will live obediently, then I will hear them, forgive them, and heal their land. An incredible transaction, wouldn’t you say?
As He did with Solomon, the King of kings has paid us a visit. He has spoken. If you have believed His message of good news, you and I are soldiers drafted into the army of the Lord. We bear His name: Christian. He has given us a soldier’s “uniform.” If we refuse to be imposters, if we wear His name with integrity, if we walk humbly and live obediently, He will hear us and forgive us. Then He will heal our broken land. (How did he know, thousands of years ago, that our land would be in such pathetic shape?)
The battle for the hearts and minds of our children—and our hearts as well—is as hot as it has ever been. Be a real soldier. Be humble and obedient. Ask for God’s forgiveness, and know His presence. Then, watch Him heal your family. And your neighborhood. And even your country. He works miracles.