Session 17

Is this what’s missing from your prayers?

From 2 Chronicles: A 28-Day Devotional

There are universal signs of submission everyone can recognize, such as waving the white flag. When a person or group submits, they are at the very least yielding to a higher power.

In 2 Chronicles 6, we see another sign of submission when Solomon kneels before the nation and prays. What makes this moment so powerful is Solomon’s humility. Solomon is one of most powerful men to walk the planet, yet he kneels before a nation to pray.

In terms of earthly possessions, Solomon had it all. But Solomon still needed to connect with God and for all the people to see that God was greater. Submission is the heart of prayer. 

Prayer allows us to connect directly with God. Asking for God’s help is only one part of prayer; it can be much more. Prayer can be a time where we can feel God’s presence.

We all know people who encourage us and make us feel better. If a person can do that, imagine the difference God can make when we seek a connection to Him.

Solomon’s attitude was inspirational. He thanked God for past faithfulness, and he asked God to grant the requests of others. He acknowledges there is no one else like our God and that no matter how much we have, what we need is a connection with God.

Reflect:

• How would you rate your prayer life on a scale of 1 to 10? Why did you choose that number?
• What do you struggle with most when it comes to talking to God in prayer?
• Is there anything you can learn and put into practice from Solomon’s story?