Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- July 3, 2012
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves 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
A nation that prays pays forward a faithful legacy to the next generation. But a prayerless nation jeopardizes the favor of God for future families. Indeed, when a people “progress” past prayer in their psyche, pride has captured their hearts. Only humility can conquer the enemy of estrangement from Almighty God. Yes, a posture that kneels in submission to the eternal Sovereign, Jesus Christ, is positioned to hear from heaven and be healed.
Our nation exhibits humility when we recognize a National Day of Prayer and observe its solemnity in quiet reflection on the roots of our religion. This day is more than symbolic of a nation brought to its knees because of its neediness. It is a day of dependency that sets the stage for the following days of the year. A group of states that dedicate a day to Christ state that they need a savior for their sins. Prayer pronounces its desire for God.
“So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, “This is what the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, says: ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, so that they may worship me.” Exodus 10:3
Will we stand by in silence as public figures who humbly pray to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ are mocked by some? Or will we join them in prayer in our homes, at work, in a restaurant, at sporting events and during civic gatherings? Shyness is the excuse of those who are scarred. Humble prayer births in us a holy boldness that expresses itself in joyful praise of Jesus. Yes, some will scorn us, but it is better to be known as being courageous for Christ.
The soul of a nation with a prayerful persona is sensitive to sin. Bad behavior is not ignored or excused. Fiscal stewardship, integrity and relational purity are the norm, not the exception. A country with a conscience invites the blessing of Almighty God. Thus, do your part by gathering your family together in confession and repentance to Christ.
Healing comes to a homeland that sees righteousness as the remedy for its ills. Wave the banner of belief in God over your personal and professional life for His glory. Contrite prayer begins with the Lord’s people in His house of worship. His people humble themselves first because they know better—they are responsible to live righteously. Your life is a light for the Lord, so shine brightly for your Savior Jesus. Pray He heals our land.
“He said, “If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.” Exodus 15:26
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I bow in humble adoration, please heal our land for Your sake.
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalm 14:1; Isaiah 53:5; Romans 1:21
Post/Tweet this today: The soul of a nation with a prayerful persona is sensitive to sin. #nation #prayer
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Amen.
I have been enjoying these devo’s for a few months now.
Regarding our country’s need for humility and prayer I believe God is saying that if we don’t voluntarily humble ourselves and pray and return to Him, we will involuntarily be humbled, because pride comes before a fall, pride will be our downfall. I’m praying for discernment in praying for our Country because scripture must be fulfilled and it’s going to get worse here. I’m praying that all who are appointed to salvation in our Country will be saved. I’m praying that those who know Him will wake up (Lk.21:34,36) make the most of every opportunity to share His freedom with others. I’m praying for perseverance on behalf of the saints because I believe that their will be a fiery baptism that we will have to undergo here.
Thanks for sharing your wisdom.
Blessings,
karla