Heart and Soul

As the time of King David's death approached, he gave this charge to his son Solomon: "I am going where everyone on earth must someday go. Take courage and be a man. Observe the requirements of the LORD your God, and follow all His ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and laws written in the Law of Moses so that you will be successful in all you do and wherever you go. If you do this, then the LORD will keep the promise He made to me. He told me, 'If your descendants live as they should and follow me faithfully with all their heart and soul, one of them will always sit on the throne of Israel.'" 1 Kings 2:1-4

It’s Valentine’s Day. A day to consider Heart and Soul. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Now that King David was so old that he was near death, it was time to name a new king. The controversy was on which of his sons would be the next king. King David had promised Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, that her son would be king. So Nathan the prophet, reminded Solomon of his promise to Bathsheba. Although another son of David’s, Adonijah, declared himself king, Solomon, chosen and blessed by David, rode his father’s donkey to Gihon where he was anointed with oil by the priest and became the new king.

Descendants of King David were challenged to live righteous lives. This scripture in 1 Kings 2 David is warning his son Solomon to follow the laws from the Lord. That would be his key to success as a King over Israel and Judah.

If…that is a challenge from God that results in a promise from Him. We know He keeps His promises. IF involves obedience by His followers.

'If your descendants live as they should and follow me faithfully with all their heart and soul, one of them will always sit on the throne of Israel.'

Model of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem

Solomon was blessed by God with great wisdom—but he didn’t consistently follow God’s rules and commands. He had many successful years, constructing great buildings including the Temple, and amassing abundant wealth. Yet it was his seven hundred wives and turning to their gods that showed his disobedience to the Lord. The kingdom became divided. (See 1 Kings 11:9-13.) God was angry with Solomon because he turned his heart away.

You may not have seven hundred wives or husband, but have you ever turned your heart away from God?

Prayer ~ Lord God, open my eyes to Your truth and Your ways that I would always live to please You—doing what Your heart desires.

Daily Bible Reading: February 14 – Leviticus 5-7

Happy Birthday, Kendall--May God continue to bless you and Lindsey.

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.  All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted

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