This great congregation was now shortly to be scattered, and it was not likely that they would ever be all together again in this world. Solomon therefore dismisses them with this blessing: "The Lord be present with us, and that will be comfort enough when we are absent from each other."
The power of His Grace upon them: "Let Him be with us, and continue with us, not that He may enlarge our coasts and increase our wealth, but that He may incline our hearts to himself, to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments."
Spiritual blessings are the best blessings, with which we should covet earnestly to be blessed. Our hearts are naturally averse to our duty, and apt to decline from God; it is His Grace that inclines them, Grace that must be obtained by prayer. (Matthew Henry)
It's a little sad that this was the last time all of the children of Israel congregated. As I'm studying at times it feels like I'm right there with them. Matthew Henry said that our hearts are naturally averse to our duty--that helps me. It makes me feel less like a failure because I struggle, taking two steps forward and one back, cutting off communication with Christ, etc. etc.
God's Grace is the only thing that will keep our hearts turned towards Him; and that can be obtained by prayer. If we try on our own we will always fail--we're not made for it.
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