Title: A CALL TO REPENTANCE FOR HEALING

Scripture focus : 2 Chronicles 7:14 - "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."*

Reflection: In the days of old, Israel derailed from the precepts and laws of God. They forsook the true God and sought after other gods. They became wicked and committed grievous sins before the Lord. As it is written: "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." - Isaiah 59:2

Because of this, God turned His face from them and allowed them to be taken captive. He allowed neighbouring nations to conquer and oppress them. Yet, God still loved them because of His everlasting covenant with Abraham. In His mercy, He did not destroy them completely, but called them to repentance.

The Bible says: "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise... but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." - 2 Peter 3:9

And He promised forgiveness: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." - 1 John 1:9

Today, our own nation, Nigeria, is going through severe hardship — economic hardship, insecurity, and suffering. This is as a result of massive corruption in high and low places.

  We have become corrupt by nature, always wanting to bend the rules — giving, asking, taking and accepting bribes. In some instances, government money meant for projects that would benefit the people is outrightly stolen, and the people are left in the lurch to fend for themselves.

Truly, "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." - Proverbs 14:34 and "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23

  When I look at these things, I see enough reason for God's judgment upon our land.

Therefore, I am using this medium to call everyone in our country, Nigeria, who will read this to repentance. I am appealing to you, my dear readers, to come back to Christ.

  This is the time to share this message of salvation with those who have not yet known Christ. Let revival begin from our different homes, especially by calling our children to return to God through Christ.

  As the Scripture says: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord." - Acts 3:19

And "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." - 2 Corinthians 5:17

  The train is about to leave, there is no time left. Jesus is calling. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28

  Everyone desiring to make heaven must enter now; tomorrow may be too late. For the Bible reminds us: "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." - 2 Corinthians 6:2

May God help you and me to come to Him, so that when He heals our land and the good times come, we will partake in it.

Amen.

© Dr. Joel Olanrewaju gbemide09@gmail.com.