King Solomon's greatness is widely known and universally acknowledged. He builds the temple of the Lord, a place to house the ark as well as a special place for prayer. The temple serves as an important sign of the greatness of God and the importance of His Law. But it is also a way for God to communicate a profound message: That He listens for and hears the prayers of His people. He promises Solomon that, in a special way, the prayers offered in the temple by the Israelites will be heard and will be responded to. The Lord does not suggest that He will not hear prayers offered elsewhere--for after all He knows the minds and hearts of His people. But there is special about this sacred place, and a singular importance about seeking the Lord there and laying before Him the needs of His people.
A strong theme in this section is the Lord's hope--His expectation; His demand--that His people come to Him in their need and ask for His help.
The eyes of the Lord roam over the whole earth, to encourage those who are devoted to him wholeheartedly.
Indeed, God is angry that Asa, king of Judah, does not come to Him when Judah is threatened by enemies, and again when Asa falls ill near the end of his life. Asa's failure in this regard is seen as a sign of infidelity on his part. What an interesting idea--that God not only tolerates our asking Him for help, but He demands it!!
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