David’s Instructions to Solomon

I Chronicles 28:1–10
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During David’s last sickness, many chief priests and Levites were at Jerusalem. David called a meeting for all of Israel’s leaders, including the tribal leaders, the government officials, the army commanders, the officials in charge of the royal property, the palace officials, and the brave warriors (v. 1). He spoke of his wanting to build a temple for God, and how God prevented it from happening because he killed too many people in battle (vv. 2-3). He explained how the Lord chose Judah to be the leading tribe in Israel and from that tribe he chose his father’s family, and from that family, he chose him to be the king of Israel, and his descendants to rule as kings (v. 4). 

David told the people how the LORD had blessed him with many sons, but He chose Solomon to be the next king of Israel and the one to build the temple (vv. 5-6). He told them about God’s gracious purposes concerning Solomon, how if he continued to obey God’s laws and commands, his kingdom would never end (v. 7). He told them they were the LORD’s people and how he wanted them to promise that they would do their best to obey everything the LORD God has commanded (v. 8). Then this land would always belong to them and to their descendants. He then turned to Solomon and said, “My son, worship God and obey him with all your heart and mind, just as I have done (v. 9). He knows all your thoughts and your reasons for doing things, and so if you turn to him, he will hear your prayers. But if you ignore him, he will reject you forever. The LORD has chosen you to build a temple for worshiping him. Be confident and do the work you have been assigned” (v. 10).

Application

Just as in Solomon’s life, obedience to God and His Word is to be the key focus in my Christian life.  David did a great deal of service in His day and served his generation according to the will of God (Acts 13:36). I know that if my life is going to please God I must be obedient to His Word and the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my life. Lord, help me to be faithful.