powerful worship

Solomon had made a bronze platform five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high, and had set it in the court, and he stood on it. Then he knelt on his knees in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven,

2 Chronicles 6:13

In the public dedication of the temple, Solomon not only made it clear that it was his life’s ambition to complete the Lord’s glorious temple (2 Chronicles 6:1-11), but he also humbly exemplified submissive worship to the Lord as he led in worship at this first public gathering at the temple.

Solomon made sure that all Israel would know that he was serious about God. It showed in his introductory speech. It was shown in his preparation of a special raised platform before the altar that would ensure that all gathered would see and hear the king as he worshiped. He publicly displayed a posture of worship, kneeling on that platform and lifting his hands Godward in prayer. And he prayed a prayer of thanksgiving, acceptance, awareness of God’s care, submission to God’s will, and praise for God’s power to save (2 Chronicles 6:14-42). Solomon’s prayer rehearses Israel’s history (both the good and the bad), commits to the covenant that God has made with Israel and with David’s descendants, and acknowledges the need for forgiveness of sin that the temple sacrifices would always emphasize. It is like a sermon for all listening as Solomon pours out his heart in commitment to God for the nation.

This very public posture of praise emphasized that Yahweh was the true King of Israel. Those who make much of God’s rule will be blessed with peace and His care. And Solomon shows us how humble praise will bring power. Immediately after his prayer, God sent fire from heaven that consumed the sacrifice, and God’s glory filled the temple so brilliantly that the priests had to wait before entering. And Israel worshiped... oh how they powerfully worshiped! (2 Chronicles 7:1-3).. Worship is more than just attendance at a gathering. It is mutual recognition and submission to the power of God as He displays Himself among us.