Daily Reading
Daily Thought
The first words of the books of Kings, “Now King David was old and advanced in years” (1 Kings 1:1), remind us our time is temporary. The reign of David would pass on to another, to his son, Solomon, and David instructs his successor, “I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn’ (1Kings 2:2-3). Kings come and go because the throne is never truly their own, but God’s.
Pay attention, though, because God promised David that, although he could not keep the throne, he could keep the throne in his family, “if your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel” (1Kings 2:4). Some did, most did not. One of two oft repeated obituaries are recorded in Scripture at the passing of a king, “he did evil in the eyes of the Lord,” and less often, “he did what was right.” Rulers do well to remember they lead at the pleasure or displeasure of God, and will be judged accordingly. Eventually, the record goes silent and the throne is empty.
Until another is born, Jesus Christ, son of David” (Matthew 1:1), Son of God. His will be an obedience “to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8), “and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” (Luke 1:32-33). The promise is fulfilled.
Daily Prayer
God, Creator of the heavens and the earth, I know that You are good and You made this world good. When I follow You, I am blessed. Your discipline is good. It comes from Your love and Your desire to see me live a life of righteousness and peace.
Your correction is painful, at times, but I am glad for it.It puts me back on the right track.Do not let me become blind and deaf to the consequences of evil, but help me remember the joy of walking with You, so I will always long for it. It is good to be a citizen of the righteous and wonderful King of kings forever.
Amen