1 Kings: Walk Before Me FaithfullySample

In contrast to Adonijah, those loyal to David engage in successful diplomacy with David (vv. 11–27). Nathan orchestrates this, enlisting Bathsheba’s help to bring about David’s announcement that Solomon would succeed him (v. 30). 

When the Lord promised David that his offspring would reign forever (2 Samuel 7), nothing was said about whom he wanted to succeed David – whether Adonijah or Solomon. So is Nathan’s statement that David has chosen Solomon true or is Nathan making it up (v. 13)? We cannot be sure, though David finally makes this oath himself in verse 30. David commands Solomon to be crowned urgently (vv. 32–35). The old king is suddenly alert and in control. The instructions are carried out without delay. Solomon is crowned in a public ceremony with 'all the people’ (v. 40) acclaiming him. 

Key to this transition of power is David’s assurance of the Lord being behind Solomon. David’s oath (vv. 29–30) appeals to the Lord, as does Benaiah’s prayer (vv. 36–37). Solomon will be great indeed if the Lord is with him, as he has been with David. Note that confidence in the Lord being with Solomon comes from God’s promises to David back in 2 Samuel 7 about an everlasting Davidic dynasty. The foundation is therefore God’s faithfulness and not Solomon’s own ability or goodness. 

All great leaders of God’s people require the Lord’s presence and empowerment. No leader can do it ‘alone’. Nor should a leader depend on his or her own ability rather than on God’s presence and power. What character and attributes ought the church be looking for in discerning a godly leader? How do these differ from the attributes that our society looks for in leadership? 

Solomon is the first installment of God keeping his promise of an everlasting dynasty for David. That promise finds its fulfillment in the greater son of David, Jesus Christ, our eternal King. Think on the leadership attributes of Jesus and how different they are from those of our society. What did it mean for God to be with Jesus, as Benaiah prays for Solomon (v. 37)?

Reflection

Do you see your leaders relying on God sufficiently, and therefore being humble?