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David’s Charge To Solomon
David’s Charge To Solomon
As we read 1 Chronicles, we get to the end of David’s reign and the beginning of Solomon’s reign. The legacy that David wants to leave is a temple for the LORD. Up to now this ‘dwelling place of the LORD’ among His people was in the tabernacle – a tent. It wasn’t just a tent though; it was holy unto the Lord. It was designed to accomplish the Lord’s purpose as he brought the people out of Egypt, through the wilderness, and into the land of promise. They now have been in the land for hundreds of years, and David desired to build this temple. God however said NOT David, but Solomon.
Notice again the charge that David made to Solomon concerning this: "Only the Lord give you discretion and understanding, and give you charge over Israel, so that you may keep the law of the Lord your God. "Then you will prosper, if you are careful to observe the statutes and the ordinances which the Lord commanded Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and courageous, do not fear nor be dismayed” (1 Chron. 22:12-13).
David’s desire was that the LORD would give Solomon discretion and understanding SO THAT he would keep the law! God gave Solomon wisdom, yet we will watch as Solomon struggles with keeping the law!
Then the conditional promise that we have seen so many times: IF (the condition stated) you are careful to observe… which the Lord commanded Moses concerning Israel”. THEN (the result) you will prosper. This is not primarily about money and wealth, although Solomon did amass great quantities of both, but about prospering in his work of leading God’s people.
Being a leader always brings great challenges. Hence, again the often-repeated charge: “Be strong and courageous, do not fear nor be dismayed”.
The principle can be seen for us today. First, we need the wisdom from the Lord so that we can discern, understand, and obey the will of the LORD. Second, we need to realize that there is the condition of faithfulness even for our promises. “Be thou faithful unto death and you will receive the crown of life” (Rev. 2:10, etc.). Third, we must then face live by being strong and courageous and not fearing what men may say or do.
Let us keep our charge as we by faith serve our Lord.
Hugh DeLong
