1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullySample

David’s final words to Solomon are an interesting mixture. Read them and see what you think. Do they remind you of anything? Would you agree with all his words?

Echoing the word of Moses (Deuteronomy 31:7–8) and God to Joshua (Joshua 1:6–7), David urges Solomon to be strong and courageous (‘act like a man’, v. 2). As it was for Israel under Joshua, will Solomon’s years be glorious for the people of God? David sets Joshua as a paradigm for good leadership. Will Solomon reach that standard?

Strength and courage for Joshua are tied to meditating on God’s word (Joshua 1:1–9), so the implication is that Solomon ought also to keep God’s word close to him. Like Joshua, David exhorts Solomon to walk in obedience to God according to the Law of Moses (v. 3). Moral character and behaviour, in relationship to God, is fundamental for the people of God, not least its leader. This foundation of God’s word in a believer’s life is what creates courage and strength, as God’s word lays the basis for trusting in his power and faithfulness. 

Where do you see moral courage in leadership these days, whether in a church or a nation? What parts of Scripture have helped you develop moral courage? Where God’s word is read less and thus known less, church leaders are more vulnerable to moral cowardice than courage. 

But then David instructs Solomon to take revenge against Joab and Shimei (vv. 5–9). Is this godly wisdom? Why does David tell Solomon to act with such vengeance? Why didn’t David do his own dirty work earlier? Is it fair for David to command Solomon to kill Shimei when David had sworn that he himself would not? Isn’t this being deceptive and harsh? 

If God establishes Solomon’s rule (v. 12), then maybe Solomon can trust God to deal with his enemies, rather than take vengeance himself. So often we see leaders, in church and state, treat opponents terribly, demonstrating insecurity and a lack of charity.

Reflection

Pray that we will practise godly courage, grounded in God’s word. Pray that we will not exercise vengeance, which belongs to the Lord.