Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 8; 2 Chronicles 5; Psalm 99; Romans 3
Scripture: 1 Kings 8:54-55
54 When Solomon had finished all these prayers and supplications to the LORD, he rose from before the altar of the LORD, where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward heaven. 55 He stood and blessed the whole assembly of Israel in a loud voice
Observation: The position of Solomon's posture is described here. Solomon had prayed a long prayer out loud for all to hear at the dedication of the Temple. (We read this insightful prayer in verses 23-53.) At the end of his prayer he rises from his knees: "he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward heaven." Solomon's willingness to publicly demonstrate humility and passion in prayer -- humbly kneeling before God, raising his hands, praying out in a loud voice -- is a great example of spiritual leadership. Solomon is demonstrative in his prayer -- all those in attendance can hear and see him as he cries out to God. His kneeling shows humility. Lifting hands shows a passionate seeking. Praying out loud draws the whole community into the experience.
Application: Postures of prayer are important, especially among leaders. Those in leadership (whether accompanied by recognized positions and titles or not) have a responsibility and an opportunity to lead by example in the way they pray. Others are watching -- let them see your passion and learn. I want to challenge you to think about what anyone watching your posture and demeanor in prayer would learn. Can we do better?
Prayer: Lord, help us to learn from the example of Solomon and demonstrate our passion and humility in the way we pray. May we not hold back because of pride or be reserved because of decorum, but may we do everything in such a way as to demonstrate our great need of and dependency on You. Thank You for loving us and giving us the opportunity to seek You. May we lead others well as we seek You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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