“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

If

I’ve been reflecting for a while now on how many of God’s promises and prophetic words to us begin with “if.” There often seems to be a role we have to play in the things we are praying for. We’re waiting on God—but perhaps He is waiting on us.

Peter had to “get out of the boat” before he experienced the miracle of walking on water with Jesus.

The disciples had to start feeding the multitude with the few loaves and fishes after Jesus blessed them before they saw the multiplication of the food.

The servants had to obey and fill the jars with water before they saw the miracle of Jesus turning the water into wine.

There often seem to be steps we have to take before we see the full provision of God’s power and answers to our prayers. I think I would have been so frightened if I’d been in Peter’s shoes! But he had to get out of the boat.

“If” is a small but powerful word in the Bible. It has to do with our response to God. Jesus used “if” a lot. It’s used 574 times in the New Testament, with over half of those being in the Gospels. Jesus always spoke of “if” on man’s side and of “never” on God’s side. He understood the roles we had to play—and how God would help us.

The “ifs,” our responsibility, can seem daunting until you realize that God also promises that His “grace will be sufficient.” He wants us to obey, to choose, but He undergirds us with His strength to help us.

In all the prayers I’m lifting to the Lord, I’m asking Him to help me fulfill the “ifs” of my part—with His grace, strength, help, and wisdom. And I’m trusting Him to do what only HE can do!

“All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God” (Deuteronomy 28:2).

 “Lord, we need Your help to do what You ask. You never fail, but we are weak. We rely on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”