Our Responsibility as Believers

Sarah Bell
Aug 20
2 min read

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

— 2 Chronicles 7:14

God’s promises are powerful, but throughout Scripture, we see a consistent pattern: His promises often come with instructions. He calls His people to respond in faith and obedience before releasing the blessings He has promised.

Lately, this verse in 2 Chronicles has been stirring in my heart. It gives us four clear responsibilities as believers—and in return, God gives us three beautiful promises. Let’s walk through it together.

The Four Responsibilities of God’s People

1. Humble Themselves

Posture of the heart – admit we are dependent on God, not ourselves.
James 4:6 says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

2. Pray

Intentional communication with God, not just casual requests.
This is relational, not ritual; it’s where we align our hearts with His will.
It’s the intimate meeting and time we grow with Him.

3. Seek My Face

Pursue God Himself, not just what He can do for us.
“Face” represents presence and relationship (Psalm 27:8).

4. Turn from Their Wicked Ways

Repentance – not just feeling sorry, but actively turning away from sin.
Acts 3:19 says repentance brings “times of refreshing from the Lord.”

God’s Promises in Response

Look at the three promises from God though! He is so good, and this is how He responds to us. If His people meet those four conditions, God promises:

1. I will hear from heaven

God will be attentive to our prayers again (Psalm 34:15).

2. I will forgive their sin

Restored fellowship with Him; sin no longer blocks His blessings (Isaiah 59:2).

3. I will heal their land

Brings restoration, renewal, and blessing—both spiritually and physically.
In Israel’s case, this included rain, harvest, and peace.
For us, it can mean revival, reconciliation, and restoration in our communities.

Pastor Sarah Bell