“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
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The word “culture” in verb form means “to maintain conditions suitable for growth.” While the change of culture in some avenues of life is a positive thing, the change in culture in other things can be a detriment.
For instance, in sports realms, we often hear coaches say, “We are changing the culture within our program.” And what they mean by that is they are changing the core values to help build and maintain an atmosphere that helps produce growth inside the team.
Where does this begin? We often can point to teammates or coaches or those outside the program that are involved, but honestly it begins with us. Second Chronicles 7:14 states, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves…” The context of this passage revolves around Israel and the temple and the fact that from time to time God might send judgement on the land. God had told them that if they turned away and forsook His decrees and commands, they would be greatly punished. But if they would humble themselves, He would forgive their sin and heal their land.
Our prayer should simply be, “Lord, let it begin with me! Change me and allow others to see the change that You have made within me!” Then when that happens, we can begin to help lay the foundation of a positive change in those around us.
— Scott Nicholson, Mississippi State football chaplain
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