"Let your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation and let your saints rejoice in your goodness."

Today two of the texts are Proverbs 16:5 and 2 Chronicles 6. As I read through these texts (along with the others) a few things caught my attention. The word abomination is so strong, yet God says in several places he hates pride and arrogance. When we get down to it pride is the root of all evil I think. From the fall of Satan, to the fall of Adam, to any of the Ten Commandments it all comes back to pride. Solomon began his reign with humility on his knees in prayer. Oh that we would have leaders in the home, the church, in business, and in government that would do the same. 

Solomon looked in five directions as he prayed and addressed the people, it is a good example for us as well.

He looked back (1-11). We too should look back often at what God has done, how he has worked in our lives, and what he has chosen us to do. I am convinced he has not called us to sit back and watch our society go into the abyss. He has called us to bring light into this darkened world. 

• What has God done in your life?
• What from the history of God's work on earth brings you reassurance? 
• What has God called you do?

He looked up (12-21). He cried out to God to fulfill his covenant promises. What is the covenant God has with his people today? What do you need to cry out to God about today? 

He looked ahead (22-31). Solomon knew his people well. He knew they would need God's forgiveness and he knew God would listen to their prayers of repentance. What sins do you need to ask forgiveness from? What sins can you pray about for others? What sins can you pray about for our country? 

He looked around (32-35). Solomon also prayed for those that were not of Israel. It is easy to be an isolationist and give up on the lost. However, that is not what God called us to do. Who can you pray for right now that does not know the God of Creation? How can the church do a better job of bringing the love of Christ to the lost?

He looked within (36-40). Solomon pleaded with God to forgive the people when they sin against him and he sends them to captivity. We must realize there are always consequences to our sins. Nevertheless, we have a merciful God that forgives those that repent. What can you repent about today for yourself and for others?

"Solomon ended his prayer asking God's blessing upon the people. Listen to his words: "Let your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation and let your saints rejoice in your goodness." Pray the same for someone today please. Are you rejoicing in his goodness today?