To battle — In a just cause, and by thy warrant or commission. Shall pray — Whereby he instructs them, that they should not trust, either to the strength or justice of their arms, but only to God's help and blessing. 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; to profess themselves worshippers of the true God, in opposition to idols; and to strengthen their faith in God's promises and covenant, the tables whereof were contained in that house. Soldiers in the field must not think it enough that others pray for them: they must pray for themselves. And they are here encouraged to expect a gracious answer. Praying should always go along with fighting.
Related Commentaries of 1 Kings 8:44
1 Kings 8:44
44 If thy people go out to battle against their enemy, whithersoever thou shalt send them, and shall pray unto the LORD toward the cityi which thou hast chosen, and toward the house that I have built for thy name: