David’s Charge to Solomon

Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man. —1 Kings 2:1, 2

David knew he would soon die, and even though Solomon was still young, he was now king. “He was to be a man in full control of himself and of his people, fearless, above bribery and corruption. He was to seek first, not his own interests, but those of the people whom he had been appointed to serve and of the God whose representative he was.” David charged Solomon first to always be true to God. Solomon “sat on the throne of the LORD” (1 Chronicles 29:23), and he represented the true Ruler of Israel—the Lord of hosts. Second, set an example for the people by obeying the commandments of the Lord. Third, keep God’s statutes, judgments, and testimonies. Fourth, remember God’s promise to establish the house and kingdom of David forever is contingent upon obeying God’s law (Psalm 132:12). Fifth, do not forget the crimes committed by Joab. David could not prosecute him at the time, but justice was long overdue because Joab had murdered Abner and Amasa (2 Samuel 3:27–30; 19:13; 20:8–10).

“The death of these two was to be avenged. . . . Joab was guilty also of acts that David does not here expressly mention, such as the slaying of Absalom against David’s express command (2 Sam. 18:14, 15), and his recent treason in the support of Adonijah (1 Kings 1:7).” Sixth, treat benevolently the sons of Barzillai who had shown such kindness during David’s flight from Absalom (2 Samuel 19:31–39). Seventh and last, David wanted Solomon to remember Shimei had cursed David during his flight from Jerusalem (2 Samuel 16:5–13).

“David, in arranging his business, sets a good example to all who are advanced in years, to settle their matters while they are capable of doing so.” “Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end” (Proverbs 19:20).