Daily Devotional | Solomon's Prayer at the Temple

There is nothing quite like completing a huge project, whether it is home renovation or an all-day feast. The feeling of accomplishment is satisfying. That’s what Solomon and the Israelites experienced as they laid the last brick at the Temple project. The altars were assembled in all the right places. The ark was positioned perfectly in the holy of holies. The only thing left was Solomon’s prayer of dedication to Yahweh.

In our text today, Solomon begins by acknowledging the matchlessness and faithfulness of the Lord (vv. 23– 26). In his prayer, he emphasizes God’s power and magnitude. The Israelites built a Temple for Yahweh, but there is no human-made structure that could possibly contain God’s greatness (v. 27). Even so, Solomon prays that the people’s supplications will be received by the ears and eyes of the Lord (vv. 28–30).

Solomon intercedes on behalf of the nation and reiterates their relationship to the Lord. Yahweh would stand as the arbitrator of disputes between neighbors (vv. 31– 32). He would be the One whom they would ask for mercy when the nation sinned, was defeated in battle, or when other atrocities came their way (vv. 33–37). Even while celebrating this magnificent Temple, Solomon’s prayer emphasized the need for forgiveness. He prays for Israel’s relationship with non-Jewish people (vv. 41–45), with a warning that foreshadowed the future exile (vv. 45–49).

Even though the Temple was built by human hands, Yahweh was the chief architect. Solomon’s prayer reminded his people that all of them had sinned against God (vv. 35, 46–49). The good news is that God not only forgives sins but also delights in dwelling with His people (v. 50).

>> When you pray with others in corporate prayer, make sure your heart, mind, and soul are echoing the words that are spoken. The Lord sees and listens to you, even if you aren’t the one speaking.