‘Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.’ (v40) 2 Chronicles 6:40–42
Solomon draws his prayer of dedication of the Temple to a close. We have identified six foundation stones upon which God’s temple is established. These are: right relationships, refusing to sin, trusting in God’s provision, offering everyone the love of God, engaging in spiritual warfare, and knowing that true freedom is the fruit of forgiveness.
These are the qualities of God’s kingdom on earth, for which we both pray and work. God is constantly scanning the world for those who make a sincere commitment to build their lives upon these six foundation stones. We are established as temples of the Holy Spirit who consistently reveal the life of God and point the way to salvation in Christ Jesus.
We do this not out of a sense of duty, nor to reinforce a theological truth. No! We do it out of a deepening friendship with God. Amazingly Jesus Himself calls us His friends (John 15:15), if we obey all that He tells us.
The Temple, like the Tabernacle that preceded it, had at its heart the Holy of Holies. Only the High Priest might enter, and then only once a year.
When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain that separated the Holy of Holies was torn and everyone choosing faith in Jesus is now invited into the very presence of God. The prayers we make are an offering to God, requests that God’s will is done on earth. The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken and contrite heart.
Related Scripture to Consider: Lev. 16:1–17; Psa. 51; John 14:15–27; John 5:9–15.
An Action to Take: We carry the life of God within us everywhere we go. God sees all we do and hears all we say. Consider: are you happy with the offerings of the deeds and words you present to God?
A Prayer to Make: ‘Lord, please receive my sacrifice – a broken spirit and a broken and contrite heart. Amen.’ (See Psalm 51:17.)
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