DECEMBER 15, 1 Kings 8:22-26

Are you sometimes at a loss for words when you want to pray? Perhaps even though you have the desire to pray, you are not quite sure how to start. Let’s learn from how Solomon prayed as he dedicated the temple to the Lord.

The first thing we learn is that prayer is between only you and God. Sound quite obvious? In fact, many are afraid to pray aloud in a group because they are mindful of how others view them. But whether you are praying alone or in a small group, you stand before God alone. Look at verse 22. “...Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation...” This is the same for us too. Whether in private or in public, we do not stand before man, but before the LORD in prayer. Therefore, when you pray you don’t need to impress anyone. It is God who hears and sees your heart.

The second thing we learn is that prayer comes from a thankful heart that appreciates the great things that God has done. Solomon started his prayer by praising and thanking God. The Living and True God of Israel kept all His promises. The temple was finished only because God made it happen. There is no God like the God of Israel!

Are you thankful for the blessings that God has given to you? If you don’t know how to start praying, start by praising and giving thanks to God! What God has done for you, is beyond what the nicest and most helpful person on earth has done, or can ever do for you. He loved you so much, that He gave His only beloved begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross, to save you from your sins. And now, because Christ lives, you can face tomorrow without fear. Isn’t there so much to praise and give thanks for? Don’t take God’s goodness for granted!

List out some of God’s blessings in your life. Praise and thank Him for His faithfulness!

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Thought: I can only start to pray if I have believed in Jesus Christ as my Saviour, and acknowledge God as the only Living and True God.

Prayer: Father in heaven, thank You for all your goodness and blessings in my life. Help me to prayerful at all times. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.