This text in Scripture is the one on which the hand of President Dwight D. Eisenhower rested when he was inaugurated as President of the United States of America. It is such a striking passage of the Bible, it deserves our consideration for renewal needed in our day also.

The background story involves the time of the dedication of Solomon’s temple. Solomon had prayed all night to God in an act of personal dedication; and as the highest representative of the nation, his prayer was also an act of national dedication. God spoke to Solomon these words for His people. If there is to be renewal in our time, it will have to begin right there - with God’s people. Notice how the passage begins:

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves ...

It is hard to do anything for p…