In First Kings, chapter eight, verse fifty-seven, Solomon’s ideal prayer is the model for what we should desire in our walk with the Lord. He asked for the Lord’s protecting presence and help for God to confirm His Word by fulfilling His good promises. For a work of divine grace in their hearts to keep God’s commandments and to love His righteous ways. For God to answer daily prayers and to supply daily needs. Solomon continues to ask for an increased understanding of God’s great and awesome nature and a heart devoted to God and His will.
What Solomon asks for in this prayer is still granted in the petition of Christ, of which his supplication was a type. We shall receive grace sufficient, suitable, and seasonable in every time of need. No human heart is willing to obey the gospel call to repentance, faith, and newness of life, walking in all the commandments of the Lord, yet Solomon urges the people to be perfect. The scriptural method is our duty to obey the command of the law and the call of the gospel, seeing we have broken it. When our hearts are inclined, feeling our sinfulness and weakness, we should pray for Divine assistance, and there we can serve God through Jesus Christ.
Solomon stood before the altar, surrounded by a mighty concourse of people. Assuming the attitude of a suppliant, kneeling as in First Kings eight, verse fifty-four compared to Second Chroniclessix, verse twenty-four. Solomon, with uplifted hands, performs the solemn act of consecration. Believers today should similarly address God if we have a heart for the good of our people: especially those who do not believe or serve Him. Our goal is to be an example to others around the environment, physically serving the Lord and spiritually in prayer on their behalf.