2 Chronicles 6:19
Haue respect therfore to the prayer of thy seruant, and to his supplication, O Lord my God, to hearken vnto the cry, and the prayer which thy seruant prayeth before thee: 2 Chronicles 6:19 (KJV)
This verse belongs to Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the newly built temple in Jerusalem. Having completed a magnificent house for the Lord, Solomon gathered the people of Israel to consecrate the sanctuary and to appeal to God on their behalf. In the prayer he acknowledges God’s greatness and humbly asks Him to listen to the petitions of His people.
Respect for the prayer of God’s servant – Solomon refers to himself as God’s servant, demonstrating humility and recognizing his dependence on divine favour. The wording stresses the importance of approaching God with reverence, aware of our position as servants, and seeking His will rather than our own.
Supplication before God – The term “supplication” underscores the earnest and urgent nature of the plea. It conveys an intense, heartfelt petition for mercy, guidance, or intervention. Solomon’s use of this word highlights prayer as the essential means of communication between God and His people.
God’s response to prayer – Solomon specifically asks the Lord to “hearken” to the cry and prayer of His servant. The passage reflects the biblical principle that God hears and answers the prayers of those who seek Him sincerely, even though His answers may not always align with our desires.
The significance of prayer – By dedicating the temple and seeking God’s favour, Solomon sets an example for Israel to prioritize prayer and maintain a relationship with their Creator. The verse reminds believers of the power and importance of prayer in their own lives, encouraging a continual reliance on God’s presence and guidance.
Study recommendation – While a single‑verse study is valuable, exploring the broader context of Solomon’s dedication prayer—found in the full passages of 1 Kings 8 and 2 Chronicles 6—provides deeper insight into the theological themes and the role of the temple in Israel’s worship. Reading the entire prayer helps to grasp the full scope of Solomon’s appeal and the significance of the temple as a place where God’s name would dwell among His people.
