2 Chronicles 6:19

Yet regard the prayer and plea of Your servant, O LORD my God, so that You may hear the cry and the prayer that Your servant is praying before You.

Study Bible

Yet regard
The Hebrew word for "regard" is "panah," which means to turn or to face. In this context, Solomon is asking God to turn His attention towards the prayer being offered. This reflects a deep understanding of the personal relationship between God and His people, where God is not distant but actively engaged with His creation. The plea for God to "regard" emphasizes the humility and dependence of the petitioner on God's grace and mercy.

the prayer of Your servant
The term "servant" here is "ebed" in Hebrew, which denotes a position of humility and submission. Solomon, despite being a king, acknowledges his role as a servant of God. This highlights the biblical principle that leadership in God's kingdom is marked by servanthood. The "prayer" signifies a heartfelt communication with God, underscoring the importance of prayer as a means of expressing dependence on God.

and his plea
The word "plea" is translated from the Hebrew "techinnah," which refers to a supplication or entreaty. It conveys a sense of earnestness and desperation, indicating that Solomon is not merely making a request but is deeply imploring God for His attention and intervention. This reflects the biblical understanding that God is compassionate and responsive to the cries of His people.

O LORD my God
The use of "LORD" in all caps represents the divine name "YHWH," the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal, self-existent nature. "My God" personalizes this relationship, indicating that Solomon is not speaking to a distant deity but to a personal God who has established a covenant relationship with His people. This phrase encapsulates the intimacy and reverence that should characterize the believer's relationship with God.

so that You may hear
The Hebrew word "shama" means to hear or listen, but it also implies understanding and responding. Solomon's request is not just for God to audibly hear but to act upon the prayer. This reflects the biblical assurance that God is not only aware of our prayers but is also willing to respond according to His will and purpose.

the cry and the prayer
"Cry" is translated from "rinnah," which can mean a shout of joy or a cry for help. In this context, it likely refers to a cry for help, emphasizing the urgency and intensity of the prayer. The repetition of "prayer" alongside "cry" underscores the earnestness and sincerity of Solomon's petition, highlighting the multifaceted nature of prayer as both a plea for assistance and an act of worship.

that Your servant is praying before You
The phrase "before You" indicates the presence of God, suggesting that prayer is an act conducted in the presence of the Almighty. It underscores the belief that God is omnipresent and attentive to the prayers of His people. The act of "praying" is continuous, suggesting a persistent and ongoing communication with God, reflecting the biblical exhortation to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
The king of Israel who built the temple in Jerusalem and is offering this prayer during its dedication.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, to whom Solomon is directing his prayer.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The newly constructed house of worship where Solomon is dedicating his prayer.

4. Israel
The nation for whom Solomon is interceding, seeking God's attention and favor.

5. The Dedication of the Temple
A significant event where Solomon prays for God's presence and blessing upon the temple and the people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Humble Petition
Solomon's prayer demonstrates humility and recognition of God's sovereignty. We should approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging our dependence on Him.

God's Attentiveness to Prayer
Solomon's request for God to "hear the cry and the prayer" assures us that God is attentive to the prayers of His people. We can be confident that our prayers are heard by a loving and responsive God.

Intercessory Prayer
Solomon prays not only for himself but for the entire nation of Israel. This teaches us the value of interceding for others, lifting up their needs before God.

The Role of the Temple
The temple was a place where God's presence dwelled among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors God's presence within us.

Consistency in Prayer
Solomon's dedication prayer is a model of consistent and earnest prayer. We should strive to maintain a regular and sincere prayer life, seeking God's guidance and blessing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's approach to God in 2 Chronicles 6:19 reflect the attitude we should have in our own prayers?

2. In what ways can we incorporate intercessory prayer into our daily lives, following Solomon's example?

3. How does understanding that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit influence the way we live and pray?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our prayers are consistent and heartfelt?

5. How can we be assured that God hears our prayers, and what scriptures can we turn to for encouragement in this truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8
This chapter provides a parallel account of Solomon's prayer of dedication, offering additional insights into his requests and the significance of the temple.

Psalm 141:2
This verse speaks of prayer as incense before God, highlighting the importance of prayer as a pleasing offering to the Lord.

Philippians 4:6
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, emphasizing the importance of prayer in the life of a believer.

Hebrews 4:16
Invites believers to approach God's throne of grace with confidence, reflecting the boldness Solomon exhibits in his prayer.