I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, act like a man, and observe what the LORD your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go
1 Kings 2:2-3 NIV
As David came to the end of his life, he gave a final charge to Solomon, his son and successor as king. The responsibilities that would soon be Solomon’s were immense. But if he heeded his father’s charge, he would be successful.
Be strong. Be willing to stand firm in the face of opposition. Don’t back down from what you know is right.
Act like a man. It’s time to quit playing games. Defend and protect the weak and poor. Help those who need help.
Observe what the Lord requires, walking in obedience to him. Spend time in the Scriptures. Take to heart what you read, making it a part of your life. Be faithful to follow the instructions you are given there.
And, if you do these things, you will prosper, finding success in what you do and where you go. And so long as Solomon followed his father’s guidance, he did find great success and prosperity.
Our situation in life is very different from Solomon’s. But David’s advice is still appropriate for everyone who follows Jesus. Be strong in the Lord. Grow in maturity. Live in obedience to his word. And when we do that, we will prosper. Our prosperity may not be evident to the rest of the world. But we will have true riches that will last for eternity.
