Vice President Mike Pence did something special at the Inauguration.
He had the Bible open and his hand on this passage – 2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
I’ve been thinking about this the last couple days. A few thoughts –
1. This isn’t addressing everyone – it is specifically calling on God’s people, called by His name. There is always the principle of a righteous remnant – a small % can make a big spiritual impact.
2. Those people – not everyone in the land who is being wicked – should humble themselves, pray, seek God’s face and turn from THEIR wicked ways.
3. God will hear – forgive their sin and heal their land. This healing opens up reconciliation, peace and blessing (good things happening) – and the goodness of God leads men to repentance. (Romans 2:4)
Since the election, we’ve seen a lot of anger, hate, protesting and continued deep division. This wouldn’t be happening to the degree that it is unless the seeds of division, fear and envy had grown into thriving chaos in people’s lives, minds and hearts.
If you identify yourself as someone called by God’s name (from the context of this verse that would include Jews and Christians) please look to your own heart and actions and repent.
Too many people are railing on “the wicked” (protestors) and wanting to force them to repent and change – news flash – THEY WON’T! Not unless they get a personal revelation of God’s love and respond to His goodness and mercy. Being judgmental and speaking against them, mocking them or dismissing them is evil.
It hurt my heart yesterday (#WomensMarch) to see so much anger and betrayal exposed alongside fear and hate like I can’t remember in this country. There needs to be true change and kindness along with accountability from our leadership in government and in the church.
I’m believing with Vice President Pence and many other people who are praying for our country and the world that healing would come from an attitude of personal humbleness and compassion and yes repentance. Repentance for doing bad things and being harsh and repentance on the omission side for neglect, coldness and laziness – letting the least of our people be abused and attacked.
May God have mercy on America and may true righteousness and peace bring change and healing.
