“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.”
– 2 Chr. 7:14 KJV
Common (Mis)usage:
This verse is typically used in a timeless way that communicates the steps required for national transformation and healing in America. The premise is that God will forgive and remedy any maladies after a given people exercise humility, repentance, and seek God.
Context is rarely provided when this verse is referenced (see a trend with these commonly misused verses?). I understand, too. It sounds good and resonates with the human idea of quid pro quo (“something for something”). If we do something, God will respond with something in kind. While this something-for-something element is present in this verse and elsewhere in the Scriptures, applying this Scripture “as is” without providing context and extracting the principle is a flawed, unfaithful approach to the biblical text.
Basic Context & Meaning:
Until the days of King Solomon, there was no permanent dwelling place for God in Israel. God had been worshiped primarily in a tabernacle and/or at various Israel-created altar sites. King David, Solomon’s father, wanted to build God a temple, but he was forbidden from doing so (1 Chr. 22:8). King Solomon desired to carry out the task that David prepared for him, and he accomplished it, which was fully expressed in an extravagant temple dedication earlier in the chapter (2 Chr. 7:1-10).
God then appeared to Solomon and gave him a direct message. The Lord speaks to him starting in v.12 and that speech continues through v.22 (2 Chr. 7:12-22). In this passage, God outlines the blessings that Israel would experience by living in proper covenantal relationship with Him and worshiping in the newly built temple. However, He also informs Solomon what will become of the temple and people (i.e., destruction) if they cease from obeying and serving Him.
Specifically in v.14, God assures Solomon of the temple’s validity by telling him that a time of future drought and disaster in the land (note: ancient Israel was primarily an agricultural society) if the people respond appropriately, God would hear them, honor their prayers, and respond with resolution.
Suggested Usage/Application:
This Scripture can absolutely be applied to Christians today, but there needs to be a little work to extract the principle and not read the text as though it was originally meant for all God’s people throughout all time. The promise in this passage is specifically given to Solomon and includes OT Israel.
What can’t be said? God promises to fix all individual and national ailments for Christians throughout eternity as long as they humbly repent.
What can be said? The character of God is consistent. When man sincerely repents, God responds favorably, and this Scripture is one of several biblical illustrations of that truth. Moreover, God was faithful to Israel and to His covenant.