II Chronicles 6:18-42 & 7:11-14

The setting for today’s Scripture is that very high moment in Israel’s history when Solomon dedicated the great temple in Jerusalem to the Lord. The prayer he offered on this occasion is a remarkable illustration to us of the fact that prayer can change the circumstances of a nation. This is important to see on the National Day of Prayer for our nation.

We shall see that by being aware of the means God sets forth, we will understand that prayer changes the circumstances of a nation.

• We see the need for prayer (II Chronicles 6:18-42)
  • Because of sinful man
    • Sin against neighbor (II Chronicles 6:22)
    • Defeat in battle (II Chronicles 6:24)
    • Heavens are shut up (II Chronicles 6:26)
    • Famine arises (II Chronicles 6:28)
    • Battle (II Chronicles 6:34-39)

Note that during Solomon’s prayer, it wasn’t if the people would sin, but when they would sin.

• The criteria for God’s response
  • Confess sin
  • Turn from evil
  • Seek God
• The promise of God’s blessing (II Chronicles 7:12-16)
  • If you do this
    • humble themselves
    • seek my face
    • turn from your wicked ways
    • pray
  • Then I (God) will do this
    • hear
    • forgive your sins
    • heal the land

God concludes (II Chronicles 7:15), I will be watching and listening for the prayers from this place.

We can draw from this message from God that prayer can change the circumstances in a nation and the course on which a nation may be set. We can then believe God for the needs of our nation today and can be assured that a praying people can change that nation.