A Surprising Context

(2Ch 7:14 KJV)  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.

(Proverbs 31 also read)

As I was contemplating this verse this morning I spent a bit more time on the context that usual.  To be honest, I was surprised.  I have always heard this referred to as a verse for the hard times, when things are going south.  I pretty much accepted that because it fits and it works for that but imagine my shock that this was a promise given to Israel in one of their most exciting moments of spiritual triumph.  You can look it up or take my word for it.  

Solomon has just finished the temple and gone through the glory of its dedication.  At the beginning of this chapter God appears to Him and accepts the gift of a house of worship for Him.  Then suddenly He shifts gears and says that if He is ever forced to send bad times on them then....  This verse was given in good times to be tucked away for bad times.

So?  Compared to the rest of the world and the sweep of history we are still in good times.  Compared to the times I was raised in we are at a new low.  Take your pick but tuck away the promise of God and remember that the promise is based on repentance and prayer.