written by Jerry Runser

In today's reading, we hear what David told Solomon at the end of David's life, the beginning of Solomon's reign. I think we can assume that David was very wise by this time: He was a "man after God's own heart"; He reigned over God's people for 40 years; He made mistakes but learned from them; We see many insights and much wisdom in the psalms he wrote. The words to his son at this point must have been his most sage advice. "Be strong, show yourself a man … Observe what the Lord your God requires … Walk in His ways and keep his decrees …" Good advice to a new king, and to all of us as we go through the trials and temptations of life.

"Be strong, show yourself a man.” Good advice for all adults. We need to be strong and demonstrate maturity not only for our own growth but for the benefit of others. I think an important part of being "strong" in our daily lives is to avoid whining and complaining. Whining and complaining does nothing for us; it brings down others; and it is a poor example for younger people learning how to deal with daily challenges. Being strong also means doing the right thing, regardless of what others think. Which leads to the next guidance from David to Solomon. "Observe what the Lord your God requires". We need to keep reminding ourselves to do what is "right" in God's eyes. I think it is easier today to remember what God requires than it was in Solomon's time, when they had the Mosiac Law. Jesus boiled it down for us to "Love God and love one another". It's also easier to follow David's last piece of advice: "Walk in His ways." We have the perfect words and example of Jesus' life. So, David's advice is indeed wise and we have a lot of help in following it. We have the "way, the truth and the life" of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit sent to give us strength. Paul reinforced this in 2 Timothy 2:1 "You then … be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus".

A fellow traveler,
Jerry