April 25, 2026 - 2 Chronicles 5-7

From the previous chapters, we learned that true greatness is measured not in terms of worldly wealth but by personal character.  That said, it’s impossible to overlook all the great accomplishments of Solomon, perhaps the greatest being the building of the temple in Jerusalem.  But even there, the principle stands.  Even in celebrating this great architectural and religious accomplishment, the character thing shines through in Solomon’s prayer of dedication.  Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the temple must be one of the great prayers of the Bible.  As he spread his hands out to heaven, he prayed, “Lord God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth, keeping his gracious covenant  . . . You have kept what you promised . . .” (6:14,15).  He begins and ends his prayer with many references to God and with a clear reliance upon God.  He is king only because God has approved him as king.  He has been able to build the temple only because God desired it.  Israel is in the land only because God has given the land.  And so on and so on.  It is good to remember, day by day, how dependent we are upon the Lord and his faithfulness. 

God of the ages, whose almighty hand

leads forth in beauty all the starry band

of shining worlds in splendor through the skies,

our grateful songs before thy throne arise.

Refresh thy people on their toilsome way;

lead us from night to never-ending day;

fill all our lives with love and grace divine,

and glory, laud, and praise be ever thine.   --Daniel C. Roberts (1876)