2Chron 7:14 records God’s response to Solomon’s dedicatory prayer for the temple. Solomon was asking God to bless the temple, to dwell in the temple and to restore His people if ever they were to fall away. God replied by saying if, “…My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
God’s response is both promise filled and prescription oriented. Meaning, if the prescription is followed, one will experience the desired results. If the prescription is not followed, sin-sickness will remain.
The literary style of the passage also conveys a sense of progressive and orderly response from God. Meaning, each prescriptive phrase is followed by a sequential response from God. Humility captures His attention so that His ear turns to listen. The prayer which brings Him pleasure inspires Him to pour out His forgiveness. Lastly, seeking His face while turning from wicked actions prompts Him to let His healing flow.
Following this prescription will help every wayward person/nation get healthy. You may never need to have this prescription filled, but if you do, follow the doctor’s orders so you will be able to live right and live well…