What will you pass on?

If you read 1 Chronicles 22-29 you will see an amazing picture of David actually being a father to Solomon. He gives Solomon a challenge to fulfill God's plan to build the temple. He lines up all the leaders to help Solomon, and provides nearly all the materials and a detailed plan. David ends his life well by passing on a legacy of faithfulness to his son.

There is no such record for Solomon at the end of his life. In 2 Chron 9:31 we read "Then he rested with his fathers and was buried in the city of David his father. And Reheboam his son succeeded him as king."

Solomon began well, completed the temple, but then made daily decisions that took him farther from the heart of faith his father David had. He had great understanding and wisdom, but not obedience. Review Deut 17:14-20 and you will see that Solomon failed to follow the clear instructions for kings of Israel.

One of the important lessons here is that you cannot pass on to your children what you do not yourself possess. Take measure of yourself, dear father, and see where you need to build up your faith and perservance.