Prove Yourself a Man
Now the days of David drew near that he should die, and he charged Solomon his son, saying: “I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. - 1 Kings 2:1-2
David had grown old, he faced the inevitable and he knew his days on earth would be few––he would soon die. Solomon, the son of Bathsheba would become the next king. He was believed to be very young and obviously inexperienced. David gave some important last words to his son, to help him, as he would soon assume the responsibilities of the throne. He encouraged Solomon to be strong and to prove himself a man.
The Apostle Paul gave wise advice to fathers to help them raise their sons to become godly men: …fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord(Ephesians 6:4). How else are fathers to set a good example for their sons? Paul told the men to provide for their families: But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1Timothy 5:8). Paul also gave the principle of hard work: …we told you that if a man does not work, he should not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NLV).
A father’s influence over their son’s lives is invaluable. They have the ability to shape the lives of their sons as they teach them how to become godly men. Fathers must pour into their young men wisdom––gained from walking with the Lord. As a Christian father, what kind of role model have you become to your sons? Can they follow in your footsteps?
In fact, Paul addressed all Christians concerning their faith when he said: Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, and be strong (1 Corinthians 16:13, KJV). Have you grown to become a mature Christian?
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
~1 Corinthians 13:11~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
