1 Kings 1 -- A Dad And His Son

I’ve felt a little like David in this chapter the last few days, pretty much bedridden and unable to do much due to sickness, and somewhat out of the loop.

 

David found out that one of his sons had decided to take the mantle of kingship from him.  He had gathered together religious and military leaders and all of his brothers except Solomon.  It was clear that this was ungodly rebellion, for the prophet Nathan and Zadok the priest had intentionally been left out, as well as Solomon and David.

 

Before things could progress, though, David acted on the godly counsel he’d received and had Solomon named king and anointed with olive oil from the Holy Tent.  Since David was still living, this established a coregency where both David and Solomon were ruling kings so long as David was alive – a perfect way to teach Solomon the ropes of godly kingship.

 

In the sidebar of my Bible, I read, “A father’s submission to a Heavenly Father means submission to the needs of his children, in other words, sacrifice and humble service, always the conditions of Godlike authority.”  Over the last few days, I haven’t been able to do much of that.  Yet I am thankful to Just for getting me what I needed.  Joseph was also sick and we spent quite a bit of quality time together as well.  I want to be raising my sons to understand the importance of sacrifice and humble service so that they will make great dads someday.

 

Father, thank You for my sons that You gave me from half a world away.  Guide them each day to become men after Your own heart.  Teach them to walk in Your steps.

 

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford