Day 131

Great Themes

Read: 2 Chronicles 5-7

There are some great themes which run through the Bible. This passage includes some of the greatest. One theme is that of the covenant. God has made promises to his people, and he will surely fulfill them, for he is a God of steadfast love. The Hebrew word translated “steadfast love” is a beautiful word that expresses God’s covenant faithfulness. His love is not fickle; it is utterly dependable. He shows his love by keeping his promises. Marriage is a covenant between a man and a woman, so let there be steadfast love, a love which faithfully keeps the promises made.

Another theme is the seriousness of sin and the possibility of forgiveness. This is the main emphasis of Solomon’s great prayer. All sin is most serious because it is sin against a faithful God. Therefore, there must be heartfelt repentance and faith.

Yet another theme centers around the word “if,” which is found several times in this passage. God will bless wonderfully, but only if his people will walk in his ways and keep his commandments. If they turn away from obedience, the wonderful promises will not be fulfilled. We live in a day when there is danger of “cheap grace,” when people think God will bless them regardless of how they live. The Bible says that continued blessings depend on faithful obedience.

PRAYER
Father, we praise you for your steadfast love. Forgive us of our sins. For Jesus’ sake. Amen.