Scripture
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.
Reflection
In this verse, God is reminding King Solomon of the covenant He made with both David and himself in that, when the Israelites fail God and break the covenant, God never backs down from His covenantal commitment. And when the Israelites do sin, God will hear their prayers if they humble themselves, repent and seek God’s forgiveness.
And even though today, we are not bound to the Davidic covenant, we have a new covenant in Jesus and the same principle still applies. If we humble ourselves, repent and seek God’s forgiveness, we will be forgiven based on what Jesus has done on the cross for us. How encouraging to know, even though we fail the covenantal requirements, God never from His side backs down. He is always ready to forgive our sins.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Take time to pray Psalm 96. Allow it to shape prayers of thanksgiving as you are reminded of who God is.
