God-defined People

....and my people, my God-defined people, respond by humbling themselves, praying, seeking my presence, and turning their backs on their wicked lives, I’ll be there ready for you: I’ll listen from heaven, forgive their sins, and restore their land to health. 2 Chronicles 7:14 MSG

The fact that God chose Israel as his own prized possession did not automatically lead to Israel being faithful to God. First lesson: you can do all you can; what would not work will not work. You can only play your part; leave the results and responses to God.

It is also possible that God's own chosen people would rebel, even though they had enjoyed unparalleled favour and grace. They inherited a land they didn't work for, and enjoyed abundance they largely took for granted. Before I criticize Israel, I had better look at my own life too. Am I living to please the One who gave his all for me?

God is not like man. It does not matter how far I have fallen; God is able to restore me as long as I return to him. Check out the steps: humble themselves, pray, seek God's face and turn their backs on their wicked ways, God promises to listen, forgive sins and restore. All I need to do is come. His own response is guaranteed; mine must be determined.

Something assures me that the conclusion of today's extract is actually God's ideal for me. Sin is what disrupts the ideal. It is only repentance and return that will restore the ideal. Where do I stand? His time of favour is here.