Old Testament
2 Chronicles 6:16
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Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, fulfill the promise you made to my father David, saying, 'There shall not fail you a man in my sight to sit upon the throne of Israel, provided your children are careful to walk in my law, as you have walked before me.'
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Now therefore, O LORD God of Israel, keep with thy servant David my father that which thou hast promised him, saying, There shall not fail thee a man in my sight to sit upon the throne of Israel; yet so that thy children take heed to their way to walk in my law, as thou hast walked before me.
What 2 Chronicles 6:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, King Solomon speaks to God, reminding Him of the promise made to his father, David. God had assured David that his descendants would always have a place on the throne of Israel, as long as they followed His laws. This promise highlights the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. Solomon acknowledges that the stability of the throne depends on the commitment of his family to live according to God's guidance. It’s a powerful reminder that our actions have consequences, not just for ourselves but for future generations. By walking in God’s ways, we can ensure blessings for those who come after us. Solomon's prayer reflects a deep understanding of the relationship between divine promises and human responsibility. It encourages us to consider how our choices today can impact our loved ones tomorrow, urging us to live with integrity and purpose in our lives, just as David did before him. This connection between faithfulness and legacy is a central theme in our spiritual journey.
How to apply 2 Chronicles 6:16 to your life
Reflect on your own life and the commitments you make. Consider how your actions today can influence your family and community in the future. Strive to live in a way that honors your values and sets a positive example for others to follow. Your choices matter more than you think, shaping the legacy you leave behind. Stay true to your principles and inspire those around you to do the same.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Chronicles Summary
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Illustrated scene from Solomon's story: The Prayer of Dedication (2 Chronicles 6:1–42)
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Solomon

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying 2 Chronicles 6:16
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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Chronicles
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Chronicles 6:16 mean?
2 Chronicles 6:16 captures King Solomon's prayer to God, reminding Him of the promise made to David that his descendants would always have a place on Israel's throne, contingent on their obedience to God's laws.
What is the significance of God's promise in 2 Chronicles 6:16?
The promise in 2 Chronicles 6:16 emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God, indicating that the stability of leadership in Israel is linked to the commitment of David's descendants to follow God's guidance.
How does 2 Chronicles 6:16 relate to family responsibility?
This verse highlights family responsibility by showing that the actions of one generation, particularly in following God's laws, can significantly impact future generations and their blessings.
What is the main theme of 2 Chronicles 6:16?
The main theme of 2 Chronicles 6:16 is the connection between God's promises and human responsibility, illustrating how obedience to God's laws is crucial for maintaining His blessings across generations.
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