Reflection and Awe Lent Series - Partnership with God

“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” –2 Chronicles 7:14

As we prepare to celebrate Jesus' resurrection this Easter season, we are reminded of the incredible power of prayer. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God invites His people to humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from their sinful ways. Though spoken to Israel centuries ago, this verse remains a timeless call for all of God’s people to seek Him with repentant hearts, trusting in His power to forgive, heal, and restore.

This passage reminds us of God's promises to those who seek Him. God’s part in this equation is clear—He will hear, forgive, and heal. His heart longs for His people to return to Him, to walk in His ways, and to experience His restoring power. Yet God, in His infinite power, has chosen to work in partnership with us, His children. Throughout Scripture, we see a God who invites His people to be active participants in His work.

However, it all hangs upon one word: if. The passage begins with a conditional clause: if God’s people humble themselves and pray and seek His face and turn from their wicked ways, then God will hear, forgive, and restore. 

It’s like the tap on a bath. The water is there, ready to flow, but the tap needs to be turned. Our earnest, persistent, and consistent prayers are the key to turning the tap and releasing the flow of blessings from the Lord that awaits. 

Embrace Humility: Acknowledge our need for God’s guidance, trusting His plans.  

Partner with God: Be open to how He wants to use us to bring hope and restoration.

As we read this Scripture, let’s be inspired to embrace our role in God’s story. Jesus played His role, emptying Himself of His deity, living a life free from sin, yet took our place on the cross so that we may be made righteous. Now, it’s time for us to play our role and partner with the Lord. 

When we humble ourselves and pray, we open the door for God to move powerfully in our lives. He is always searching for those who will partner with Him in faith and obedience. Imagine what God can do through us when we say yes to His invitation!