“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 Chronicles 7:14

I know we normally apply this verse to America. That application is a stretch at best. The topic in this verse is God’s covenant nation. When they go astray, when their love and devotion go cold then they can do these things and God will restore their “first love.”

“If my people…” We know that God’s people are in view here. This is not about secular America but the people of God, the church. The direct context was the nation of Israel but there is application that God’s people can make in all ages.

“Which are called by my name.” This further identifies the church as a good application of this verse. Now in context the verse is referring back to previous verses that describe the falling away of God’s people.

How do we rectify the situation? It’s pretty straightforward. We humble ourselves. Sin comes from pride, legalism comes from pride, even compromise comes from pride. The first step to real revival is to humble ourselves before God. To confess our sin especially that of our pride

Prayer is the next great step in revival. Andrew Murray said this: “The coming revival must begin with a great revival of prayer. It is in the closet, with the door shut, that the sound of abundance of rain will first be heard. An increase of secret prayer with ministers will be the sure harbinger of blessing.”

The next step will be to seek God’s face. In quiet meditation, in Scripture reading, and in hymn singing. We must behold the face of Christ and by beholding we are changed into His image (2 Corinthians 3).

This will lead to the final step of turning from our wicked ways. Repentance will always follow seeking Gods face. For the Christian seeking revival things that might be kay for a normal Christian will not be allowed. There needs to be a special consecration and full surrender to the Holy Spirit.

All known sin must be confessed and forsaken. If we do these things then God will hear from heaven, forgive us and renew again our love for Christ.