2 Chronicles 6:13: “(for Solomon had made a bronze platform five cubits long, five cubits broad, and three cubits high, and had set it in the midst of the court; and he stood on it, knelt down on his knees before all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven);”

September 23rd, 2023 by Pastor Ed in devotional

King Solomon unashamedly knelt before God on a 4-1/2-foot high bronze platform, acknowledging that he too was merely a servant of God Almighty. As he faced the large assembly (probably half a million people), with his hands outstretched in prayer, we can be sure that everyone held their breath, waiting to hear his words. And what an amazing 7-part prayer of dedication Solomon prayed that day.

Solomon asked that God would:

1. judge between the wicked and righteous oaths (vs. 22–23),
2. forgive the sins that caused defeat in battle (vs. 24–25),
3. forgive the sins that brought on drought (vs. 26–27),
4. forgive the sins that resulted in national calamities (vs. 28–31),
5. show mercy to God-fearing foreigners (vs. 32–33),
6. give victory in battle (vs. 34–35), and
7. bring restoration after captivity (vs. 36–39).

The same God who loved His people and was powerful enough to bring them out of the bondage of Egypt was also able to complete His purposes in them. This is a truth we need to believe today as we pray in faith for our nation and ourselves.

“LORD, You are strong and loving enough to fulfill all Your purposes in our lives this day. We remember that we are Your servants; so have Your way in our lives, in all we say, think, and do. Amen.”