May 11th - A Father’s Final Words

A Father’s Final Words

(2 Samuel 23:1-7)

(1 Kings 1:1-53; 2:1-10, 12)

(1 Chronicles 29:23-25, 28-30)

(2 Chronicles 1:1)

David’s Charge to Solomon

By Paul Hardy

20^th Century

Reaching a very old age, David knew his mortal life was drawing to a close. Solomon had already been appointed to succeed his father as King of Israel.

However, Adonijah, Solomon’s half-brother, plotted to seize the throne. He even hosted a royal celebration party. Adonijah’s guilt was evident in his guest list, as he refused to invite Solomon and his mother Bathsheba or the prophet Nathan.

Nathan advised Bathsheba, and they two of them confronted David individually with the news of his son Adonijah’s plans. David re-anointed Solomon, and the young man was crowned King of Israel.

With his son’s succession solidified, David’s lifelong mission was complete. He closed his life with a prophetic message for the people, reminding them of the Lord’s faithfulness, and a special blessing for his son Solomon.

"’I am about to go the way of all the earth,’ he said.

‘So be strong,

show yourself a man,

and observe what the Lord your God requires:

Walk in His ways,

and keep His decrees and commands,

His laws and requirements,

as written in the Law of Moses,

so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go,

and that the Lord may keep His promise to me:

“If your descendants watch how they live,

and if they walk faithfully before me

with all their heart and soul,

you will never fail to have a man on the throne of Israel.”’”

(1 Kings 2:2-4, NIV - emphasis added)

David charged Solomon with courage and faithfulness to the one faithful God. What a wonderful parting message from a father to a son. Surely, Solomon carried these words in his heart for the rest of his life.

This message may inspire parents to create words of blessing for their children. Mothers and fathers might speak such words aloud or even write them down as loving legacies for their children.

Amid daily stresses, it is all too easy for us (as parents) to speak boldly and bluntly in correcting our children. It can be far more challenging, at times, to come up with encouraging messages that inspire our children to faith and following the Lord.

What admonishments, encouragements and other affirmative words might we give to our children today?

Will you pray with me?

Faithful Father,

You model truth

And mercy

And honor.

You are the genuine One.

Speak Your words of love to us today,

For we are Your children.

Inspire us

To inspire our children

To love You

And serve You.

Draw us closer to Your heart

Today.

Amen.