In the previous chapter, we read of Solomon’s prayer to the Lord asking for confirmation that when His people sin – because we all do – that He will be faithful in forgiving their sins. Today’s chapter continues on from there and Solomon receives a response from the Lord:
“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in the place.” 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 NLT
We do serve a gracious God; a God who forgives us even when we don’t deserve it. Receiving forgiveness, however, is not based on us asking for it because we feel bad for what we’ve done, but Scripture tells us in the above verse that we also need to turn away from our wicked ways. It’s a reversal or departure from what we were doing, and head into a different direction – one that points and leads towards a Christ-centered life.
Lock Your Wings 
That also stood out for me:
“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT
When we pray specifically (as Solomon did) God answers specifically and I believe that it helps us grow in our faith knowing that God hears us. Praying specifically allows us to trust that God will answer and when he does it’s very clear.
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Good reminder to be specific in our prayers!
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