READING: 2 Chronicles 6-7, Acts 3:11-4:12
The repetition in 2 Chronicles 6 is a resounding reminder to me that God’s willingness to hear us when we pray is not automatic, nor is there anything in us that forces God to listen to us. We’re like the Israelites—sinful, disobedient, idolatrous people—who hardly deserve God’s ear. Nevertheless, He’s an amazing God whose ears are tuned to the cries of His people. Listen, then, to this repetition in Solomon’s prayer:
- “Listen to your servant’s prayer and his petition, Lord my God, so that you may hear the cry and the prayer that your servant prays before you.” (2 Chron 6:19)
- “May you hear in your dwelling place in heaven.May you hear and forgive.” (2 Chron 6:21)
- “May you hear in heaven and act.” (2 Chron 6:23)
- “May you hear in heavenand forgive the sin of your people Israel.” (2 Chron 6:25)
- “May you hear in heavenand forgive the sin of your servantsand your people Israel . . .” (2 Chron 6:27)
- “May you hear in heaven, your dwelling place,and may you forgive and give to everyoneaccording to all their ways.” (2 Chron 6:30)
- “May you hear in heaven in your dwelling place.” (2 Chron 6:33)
- “May you hear their prayer and petition in heavenand uphold their cause.” (2 Chron 6:35)
- “May you hear their prayer and petitions in heaven,your dwelling place,and uphold their cause.” (2 Chron 6:39)
Today, I trust I will pray in all humility and gratitude. After all, the God of whom Solomon said, “There is no God like youin heaven or on earth” (2 Chron 6:9), chooses to hear my prayer and act.
PRAYER: “May You hear my petitions in heaven, Lord.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 2 Chronicles 8-11, Acts 4:13-37