1 Kings 2:1-9 “Keys to God’s Promises”
As David’s time to die came close, he charged his son Solomon: “…Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man.” (2b). His primary charge was to pay attention to God’s commands and principles in order to succeed in all he did. For David success was in honoring God and His word because in so doing he enabled the Lord to carry out His promise to David. “…’If your sons are careful of their way, to walk before Me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.’” (4b). Many of the promises of God are conditioned on obedience to walking in His presence and being careful to obey His word. It was also necessary for Solomon to address areas of weakness in his leadership team and to show kindness to those who aided David in his trial of fleeing from Absalom. He specifically mentions Joab’s unwarranted violence and Shimei’s violent cursing. To ensure peace in Israel it would be necessary to both honor God and remove the obstacles to unity. To insure success in our walk with God we need the positive influence of God’s presence and to remove the negative influences of those who do not honor God.
