Day 130

What Not to Pray For

Read: 2 Chronicles 1-4

The book of 2 Chronicles takes the story of God’s dealings with his people from the beginning of the reign of Solomon to the return from the exile. It begins with God inviting Solomon to pray for whatever he wants. We are also invited to pray in Jesus’ name for whatever we wish (John 14:13-14).

God is pleased because Solomon does not pray for riches, honor, revenge, or long life. God is pleased that Solomon has his priorities straight. His one desire is for wisdom so he may carry out his calling as king in such a way as to be a blessing to the people. Jesus teaches us not to be anxious about material possessions, something which we really need to hear in a world and culture whose materialism is influencing us more than we realize. But Jesus does teach, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these thing will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33 ESV). When we ask for the right things because we have the right priorities, God gives us what we ask for and much more besides.

In his wisdom, Solomon now begins to plan for the building of the temple. His logic is this: since God is far greater than all gods (in actuality they do not even exist), his temple ought to be greater than theirs. So he builds a temple after the pattern of the tabernacle, only with all dimensions doubled, and he uses a great deal of gold. We should surely give God our best, not the leftovers.

PRAYER
Father, we do not ask for riches or honor, but give us wisdom to carry out our calling. In Christ. Amen.