What promises and instructions did David give to Solomon before his death?

As King David's life drew to a close, he gathered his son Solomon to impart final words of wisdom, promises, and instructions that would guide Solomon's reign over Israel. These instructions are recorded in 1 Kings 2:1-12, and they provide a profound insight into David's hopes for Solomon's future and the continuity of God's covenant with Israel.

David's instructions to Solomon can be divided into spiritual exhortations, practical advice for governance, and specific directives regarding certain individuals. Together, these instructions reflect David's desire for Solomon to lead with wisdom, justice, and a heart devoted to God.

Spiritual Exhortations

David's first and foremost concern was Solomon's relationship with God. He urged Solomon to be faithful to the Lord, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commandments, laws, and decrees. David's words in 1 Kings 2:2-3 are a poignant reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel:

"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."

David's exhortation to "be strong" and "act like a man" is not merely about physical strength or courage, but about moral and spiritual fortitude. Solomon is called to demonstrate steadfastness in his faith and commitment to God's ways. This echoes the instructions given to Joshua as he prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:6-9), highlighting the continuity of God's expectations for His leaders.

David also reminded Solomon of God's promise to their family, contingent upon their faithfulness. In 1 Kings 2:4, David reiterates God's covenant promise:

"And that the Lord may keep his promise to me: 'If your descendants watch how they live, and if they walk faithfully before me with all their heart and soul, you will never fail to have a successor on the throne of Israel.'"

This promise underlines the conditional nature of God's covenant with David's lineage. Faithfulness to God would ensure the stability and longevity of Solomon's reign and the continuation of David's dynasty.

Practical Advice for Governance

David's instructions also included practical advice for ruling the kingdom wisely and justly. He emphasized the importance of wisdom and discernment in leadership. In 1 Kings 2:5-6, David addressed the need for justice in dealing with Joab, his former commander:

"Now you yourself know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me—what he did to the two commanders of Israel’s armies, Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether. He killed them, shedding their blood in peacetime as if in battle, and with that blood stained the belt around his waist and the sandals on his feet. Deal with him according to your wisdom, but do not let his gray head go down to the grave in peace."

Joab had committed acts of violence and treachery, and David recognized the need for Solomon to address these injustices to maintain order and righteousness in the kingdom. David's instruction to "deal with him according to your wisdom" underscores the importance of discernment and justice in leadership.

Similarly, David provided guidance regarding Shimei, who had cursed David during Absalom's rebellion but later sought forgiveness. In 1 Kings 2:8-9, David instructed Solomon:

"And remember, you have with you Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, who called down bitter curses on me the day I went to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me at the Jordan, I swore to him by the Lord: ‘I will not put you to death by the sword.’ But now, do not consider him innocent. You are a man of wisdom; you will know what to do to him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in blood."

David's instructions regarding Joab and Shimei highlight the importance of addressing past wrongs and ensuring justice is served. These directives also reveal David's trust in Solomon's wisdom and discernment to make difficult decisions for the good of the kingdom.

Specific Directives Regarding Individuals

In addition to the broader spiritual and practical advice, David gave Solomon specific directives concerning certain individuals who had played significant roles in David's life and reign. These directives were intended to secure Solomon's position and ensure stability in the kingdom.

David instructed Solomon to show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, who had supported David during Absalom's rebellion. In 1 Kings 2:7, David said:

"But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai of Gilead and let them be among those who eat at your table. They stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom."

This directive highlights the importance of loyalty and gratitude. By honoring Barzillai's family, Solomon would reinforce the value of faithfulness and support among his subjects.

David also reminded Solomon of the loyalty of Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet, who had been instrumental in securing Solomon's succession to the throne. These men had demonstrated their commitment to David and God's will, and their continued support would be crucial for Solomon's reign.

Conclusion

David's final words to Solomon were a blend of spiritual exhortations, practical advice, and specific directives. They reflected David's deep concern for Solomon's relationship with God, his desire for justice and wisdom in governance, and the need to address past wrongs and secure loyal support.

David's instructions to Solomon were not merely a father's advice to his son but a king's guidance to his successor, rooted in a profound understanding of God's covenant and the responsibilities of leadership. By following David's instructions, Solomon would be equipped to lead Israel with wisdom, justice, and a heart devoted to God, ensuring the continuation of David's legacy and the fulfillment of God's promises.

These final words of David to Solomon serve as a timeless reminder of the importance of faithfulness, wisdom, and justice in leadership, and they continue to inspire and guide leaders in all walks of life.