There is a saying, like father like son. While children do inherit certain traits from their parents, this doesn’t guarantee success. According to the prophet Samuel, David possessed a special heart which craved to do the things of God. Thus, to follow the Lord requires the ability to listen to a heart which is in tune with the Holy Spirit, Galatians 5:25.
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart,” 1 Samuel 16:7.
While this sounds good in concept, David was a horrible father, setting a bad example and unable to control his own children according to 2 Samuel. Perhaps, this might explain the actions of his son Solomon. Early on, Solomon walked in the ways of the Lord, seeking wisdom rather than fame. The Hebrew word found in 1 Kings 3:9 refers to a listening heart. Thus, Solomon was blessed beyond measure, positioned for greatness.
So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” 1 Kings 3:9
Unfortunately, seeing isn’t always believing. Subsequently, even if you know the right thing to do in God’s eye’s doesn’t mean you will follow through to honor God. Some where along the way, Solomon was sidetracked, succumbing to the peer pressure of ungodly wives. Essentially, Solomon began to co-worship the Lord along with the gods of the Middle East. In view of this disappointing witness, may God draw you closer to Him so that you will receive a heart that listens, trusts and obeys.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 