Pay Attention

Today I received this verse in my inbox:

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 heal their land.

~ 2 Chronicles 7:14

I found the verse in context and the sentence prior got me thinking.

At times I might shut up the heavens so that no rain falls, or command grasshoppers to devour your crops, or send plagues among you. 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 heal their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place.

~ 2 Chronicles 7:13-15

God was obviously telling Solomon that difficult times are not random and out of His control. The Lord uses all kinds of things to get our attention. Brining us to our knees in hardship should bring us back to His love and forgiveness, and back to His helping hand to lead us forward in the right direction.

This verse reminded me that God is constantly teaching, leading, bringing us forward closer to Him. He puts the pressure on us to teach, and he doesn't hold a grudge when we make mistakes. I'm trying to be a better mom for Archer and Shelly. I'm trying to teach the important lessons through the mistakes they make, but I need to remember that love is not quick to anger, it is quick to forgive. And in turn, I hope they forgive the mistakes I make.