“Then hear thou in heaven their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.”
King James Version (KJV)
8:43 Calleth for - Agreeable to thy will and word. It is observable,that his prayer for the strangers is more large, and comprehensive, than forthe Israelites; that thereby he might both shew his public - spiritedness,and encourage strangers to the worship of the true God. Thus early were theindications of God's favour, toward the sinners of the Gentiles.As there was then one law for the native and for the stranger, so therewas one gospel for both.
8:44 To battle - In a just cause, and by thy warrant or commission.Shall pray - Whereby he instructs them, that they should not trust, eitherto the strength or justice of their arms, but only to God's help andblessing. Chosen - For thy dwelling - place, and the seat of thy temple.Towards the house - For to it they were to turn their faces in prayer; toprofess themselves worshippers of the true God, in opposition to idols; andto strengthen their faith in God's promises and covenant, the tables whereofwere contained in that house. Soldiers in the field must not think itenough that others pray for them: they must pray for themselves. And theyare here encouraged to expect a gracious answer. Praying should always goalong with fighting.