“…for the LORD your God is gracious and merciful and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.” 2 Chronicles 30:9b
Turning back to the LORD after a season of walking without him takes humility. One may find it very difficult as shame likely pervades your thoughts. We know we should walk with him, we just don’t always choose obedience. We know better. The mercy of our heavenly Father is, however, what should comfort us through the process of returning to doing what we already know is right.
King Hezekiah called for God’s people to return to him by sending letters throughout the land. His urging pointed to a few items; first, he told them to refrain from being like their parents and other Israelites who had been unfaithful, second, he told them not to be stiff-necked like their ancestors had been and to instead be submissive, and finally, told them to serve the LORD. All these points culminated in the statement about God’s grace and mercy for his children. These characteristics of God may have been the words you need as you contemplate an about-face.
What is holding you back from returning to the LORD if you need to? Are you feeling shame or some level of fear about God’s thoughts toward you? Do you think he will not accept you this time? This passage is a great reminder of how God actually feels -when you turn back, he will not turn his face away from you.
LORD, thank you for your grace and compassion especially when we have been unfaithful, stiff-necked, and unsubmissive. Remind us again that today is the day to return to you and serve you once again.