Greatness & Humility
“Solomon Kneeled down upon his knees before all the congregation …… and said ‘O lord God, there is no one like you in heaven, nor in earth….who shows mercy to all Thy servants who walk before You with all their hearts….. But will a God like You really dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee; how much less this temple which I have built!...... However, have regard for the prayer of Thy servant. Hear the supplications of Thy servant, and of Thy people. Hear, and when You hear, forgive…………….’ ” 2 Chronicles 6: 13, 14, 18, 21
It is amazing how Solomon appreciated the greatness and the mercy of God. Greatness and mercy and at the same time, humility! Humility which led God to “dwell with men” through His Holy Spirit. That such a God would want a relationship with people everywhere! It was mind boggling for Solomon and it should be for us too.
In the presence of this God, Solomon remembers something else – his sin and the sins of the people. But he knows that God is merciful and throughout the entire prayer, he pleads for forgiveness not only for himself, but for his people and even for strangers!
In God’s presence, what is your attitude towards Him? Is it even a small acknowledgement of God’s greatness, mercy and humility? And what do you acknowledge about yourself? Is it an acknowledgement of God’s forgiveness, mercy and love in spite of who and what you are? And what do you want most from God?
- Al Jones