During my morning devotion time with God recently, I was thanking Him and then a familiar verse came to my mind: 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “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.” We’ve all heard that verse but, on this morning, I began to “see” this verse as an encounter with Jesus that gave me a better understanding of what God was saying. I pray that it will give you a better understanding as well.

“If My people”, “Yes Lord, I’m one of your people. You chose me from the beginning and You are in my heart. I’m yours. “who are called by my name”, “Yes, I’m called, we all are; called to service, giving thanks, following You, loving others, we’re called.” Then, I saw the next part as four things for us to do and I could visualize these steps. (1) Humble yourself – I could see myself forgetting my selfishness, my ego, my pride and bowing humbly at Jesus’ feet. (2) Pray – I began praying as I looked at the feet of Jesus; asking forgiveness, praising Him and thanking Him. He then reached down, got me by the hand, raising me up and said, (3) – “Seek My face”. I looked into His smiling face and realized I didn’t need to seek His hand, His rod and staff, His direction or His approval. He wanted me to be standing face to face with Him and be looking into His loving eyes. He loves me! You know how good it is when a child or loved one looks into your eyes and smiles with love. Or when the person at the checkout looks you in the eye, smiles and says thank you. It makes you feel good. Then He says, “Okay, let’s go.” “But when your sinful flesh confronts you, (4) “Turn from your wicked ways.” and I’ll always be there for you.”

And, when we do these things, He promises to hear us, forgive us and meet our needs. Can you visualize this scene? Thank You God for Your Word, Your promises and Your love.