CONDITIONS OF RESTORATION

“...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 will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

(2 Chronicles 7:14, NKJV) 

This is part of God’s response to Solomon after his dedication of the Temple. Solomon had completed the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. Then, he held a great dedication ceremony. As part of that ceremony, Solomon delivered a magnificent prayer, asking God to hear the prayers of the people from the Temple. God agreed to do so, unless the people forsook God and worshipped other gods. Even so, God provided a way of restoration for His people when they strayed.

God promised to hear, forgive, and heal when His people humbly seek Him and repent.

God's promise of restoration was three-fold. God promised to hear from heaven - to answer their prayers. God promised to forgive their sin. God promised to heal their land from the disastrous effects of the punishments He would impose for their sin.

There were, however, some conditions for restoration. This promise of restoration was for God's people, not for everyone; you must be one of His people. Restoration is for those who are humble. God doesn't owe us anything. We must admit we are wrong, He is right, and appeal to God's mercy. Restoration is for those who seek God. Those who are no longer running from God and rebelling against Him, but who are searching for God. Finally, restoration is for those who repent, those who turn from their sins and are willing to submit to God's changes in their lives.

This promise is still in effect for God's people today. If you have failed or strayed from God, He provides restoration.