1 Chronicles 22:13
“Then you will succeed if you carefully follow the statutes and ordinances the Lord commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or discouraged.”
Words of Wisdom
David’s words of wisdom to his son Solomon is advice that all of us should follow. These are the final instructions that a king is giving to the one who will take over. He is speaking from experience, both success, and failure. Solomon heeded his father’s word at the beginning and was even given the gift of wisdom by God, but in his later years, he drifted from this advice and ended up a bitter man. Ironically his bitterness was the result of his worldly success.
Mark of Maturity
Obedience is the mark of a mature believer, but it is also the path to life in the Spirit. We don’t keep every jot and tittle of the law because it makes us right before the Lord, but we obey His Word because it keeps us out of danger and brings success to our spiritual walk. Obedience also shows our trust and dependence upon the Lord. We can’t let the criticism of those around us to discourage us from following Him — stand firm in His Word.
Success that Matters Most
It takes courage to trust the Lord through obedience. It can go against our nature and conventional advice. That’s why David is telling Solomon to be obedient. God’s Word is true, and when we are courageous enough to step out in faith, we know it won’t fail us. Even in times of fear and discouragement, we can trust that God will remain faithful.
