2 Chronicles 6:1–17

Read the passage.

Upon seeing the glory of the Lord fill the temple, Solomon gives a benediction to his people. He recounts the history of the plans to build the temple by his father David, and how the Lord gave the job to himself instead. The Lord could have chosen to make His home address anywhere on earth, but chose the Israelites to be His people, and Jerusalem as the site for His house.

Solomon’s prayer reminds the people of the promises that the Lord has made, both to the royal line and to all the people. The Lord made promises, and so He has kept them, showing steadfast kindness to those who seek Him out and follow Him. Therefore, Solomon beseeches the Lord to keep the promise made to his father David that the throne of Israel would not pass from his house, knowing that there is the condition that the sons of the king should walk with the Lord as their father David did.

You are righteous and powerful, able and delighting to do good for Your people forever.