DECEMBER 18, 1 Kings 8:41-43

It seems strange to pray for a stranger. We usually pray for those we are close to, not those we do not know. It is therefore interesting and instructive for us to read that Solomon prayed for strangers. Here we learn of Solomon’s concern for the salvation of others outside Israel.

Who does ‘stranger’ here refer to? Look at 1 Kings 8:41. It refers to people outside of Israel who left their own countries to be a part of God’s people. Why would they leave home to travel such a long distance to a foreign land? Even though they were far away, they heard of God’s great name and all the wonderful works that God had done for Israel. They believed in God through the witness of Israel. Anyone looking at Israel would be able to see God and find salvation. Israel was God’s visible witness on earth!

Dear children, can others who are observing your life tell that you are God’s witness too? While you used to love the life of sin and disobedience, now you love God and desire to obey Him. There is a difference in your behaviour and conduct because of God’s wonderful work of salvation in you. Can others tell the difference? Can those close to you, especially your family, tell the difference?

Solomon also asked God to answer the prayers of these strangers, so that all the people of the earth would also come to know and fear Him. He desired the salvation of others outside of Israel! Having experienced the salvation of God, will you also pray for the salvation of strangers like the people that your church missionaries are trying to reach?

Be a good witness for the Lord, and pray for those who are not saved. May the Lord grant you the courage and burden to share the gospel with someone He brings into your life.

Write out Matthew 5:16 below, and commit the verse to memory.

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Thought: God saved me to be His messenger of the good news of salvation.

Prayer: Father in heaven, may Your name be highly exalted and greatly praised through my life. Help me to bear a good witness for You in all that I do, so that others may also come to know and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.