Day 11

I Kings 2:1-2
When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son. “I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said. “So be strong, show yourself a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires : Walk in his ways…”

As I read these words I was struck by the combination or connection between the natural and spiritual realms of King David’s charge to his son. In the natural realm he told Solomon to “be strong and show yourself a man”. We most likely would see this type of statement as being of the flesh. We are taught it is wrong to appreciate or depend on anything that is of the flesh. Here we have just the opposite.

King David knew that there would be times when Solomon would have to me a man and demonstrate strength. To stand up to the forces that would come against him. It would require strength and courage to be that kind of man. However, I love the balance that King David brought to the blessing. He knew that natural strength and courage would not be enough. He must “observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in his ways…”

When we stand in the strength of being a man or woman, we must have the overarching presence and anointing of the Holy Spirit. It is His power and direction that brings the blessing and favor upon our strength and courage. When we co-partner with Him we have the capacity to be strong and courageous. So in these days of testing stand strong in the things you believe the Holy Spirit is instructing you in.

“Observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in his ways…”
I would encourage you to pray this charge over others in your household or circle of influence. Be strong, be courageous, be observant and trust the power of the Holy Spirit.

Dave Hickman