2 Chronicles 6:42

O LORD God, do not reject Your anointed one. Remember Your loving devotion to Your servant David."

Study Bible

O LORD God
This phrase acknowledges the sovereignty and supreme authority of Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The Hebrew term "YHWH Elohim" combines the personal name of God, Yahweh, with Elohim, a term that emphasizes His power and might. This invocation is a reminder of God's eternal nature and His role as the ultimate ruler and judge. Historically, this reflects the deep reverence and dependence the Israelites had on God, recognizing Him as the source of all blessings and guidance.

do not reject
The plea here is for acceptance and favor. The Hebrew word "ma'as" means to reject or despise. In the context of ancient Israel, being rejected by God was synonymous with losing His protection and blessing. This phrase underscores the importance of divine favor and the fear of being cast away from God's presence, which was a significant concern for the Israelites, who understood their identity and success as a nation to be intrinsically linked to their relationship with God.

Your anointed one
This refers to the king, specifically Solomon in this context, but also prophetically to the Messiah. The Hebrew word "mashiach" means "anointed one" and is used for those set apart for a special purpose by God, such as kings, priests, and prophets. The anointing signifies God's choice and empowerment for leadership. Historically, the anointing with oil was a sacred act that conferred authority and responsibility, and it was a sign of God's presence and blessing upon the individual.

Remember
The call to remember is a request for God to act in accordance with His past promises and character. The Hebrew word "zakar" implies more than just recalling; it involves taking action based on that remembrance. In the biblical narrative, God's remembrance is often associated with His faithfulness and intervention on behalf of His people. This plea is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God’s memory is tied to His covenantal faithfulness.

the loving devotion
The Hebrew word "chesed" is rich in meaning, often translated as lovingkindness, mercy, or steadfast love. It denotes a loyal, covenantal love that is enduring and faithful. This term is central to understanding God's character in the Old Testament, as it reflects His unwavering commitment to His people. Theologically, "chesed" is a foundational concept that underscores the grace and mercy God extends to humanity, despite their failings.

You pledged
This phrase highlights the covenantal nature of God's relationship with His people. The Hebrew word "shaba" means to swear or make an oath. It reflects the solemn and binding nature of God's promises. In the historical context, covenants were serious agreements that required faithfulness from both parties. God's pledges are seen as unbreakable, providing assurance and hope to His people.

to Your servant David
David is a central figure in the biblical narrative, representing the ideal king and a man after God's own heart. The term "servant" (Hebrew "ebed") signifies humility and dedication to God's will. David's legacy is foundational to Israel's identity, and God's promises to him, particularly the Davidic Covenant, are crucial for understanding the messianic hope that permeates the Old Testament. This reference to David serves as a reminder of God's enduring promises and the hope of a future ruler who would fulfill them completely.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. David
Solomon's father, the second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The holy place built by Solomon as a dwelling place for God's presence among His people.

4. The Anointed One
Refers to Solomon himself as the king, but also prophetically points to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate Anointed One.

5. Loving Devotion (Hebrew: "chesed")
A key Hebrew term that signifies God's steadfast love, mercy, and covenant faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Covenant Faithfulness
God's promises are enduring and reliable. Just as He was faithful to David, He remains faithful to us through Christ.

The Role of Intercessory Prayer
Solomon's prayer is an example of interceding for others, reminding us to pray for our leaders and communities.

The Importance of Remembering God's Past Acts
Recalling God's past acts of loving devotion strengthens our faith and trust in His future provision.

The Anointed One: A Foreshadowing of Christ
Solomon's reference to the "anointed one" points to Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to David.

Living in God's Loving Devotion
As recipients of God's "chesed," we are called to live lives that reflect His love and faithfulness to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's prayer in 2 Chronicles 6:42 reflect his understanding of God's covenant with David?

2. In what ways can we see the concept of "chesed" (loving devotion) in our own lives and relationships?

3. How does the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem relate to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can intercede for our leaders and communities, following Solomon's example?

5. How does recognizing Jesus as the ultimate "Anointed One" impact our understanding of God's promises and our daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 8
This chapter parallels 2 Chronicles 6, providing another account of Solomon's prayer of dedication for the temple.

Psalm 132
This psalm echoes the themes of God's promises to David and His dwelling place in Zion, reinforcing the covenantal promises.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising that his lineage would endure forever, which is foundational to Solomon's prayer.

Isaiah 55:3
Speaks of the "sure mercies of David," connecting God's covenant faithfulness to His people through David's line.

Luke 1:32-33
The angel's announcement to Mary about Jesus, affirming Him as the fulfillment of God's promise to David.