Bible Reading: 1 Kings 1 & 2. Luke 19:25-48.
“I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man;” – 1 Kings 2:2 (KJV)
Being strong could mean having the power to move heavy weights or perform other physically demanding tasks or it could mean being able to withstand force, pressure or wear and tear. The charge by David to his son, Solomon here is more of the second definition. This is akin to the same charge given earlier by Moses to Joshua (Joshua 1:6-9). This is similar to the charge Apostle Paul gave to the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 16:13 (KJV) “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” He repeated the same message to the Ephesians in Ephesians 6:10 (KJV), “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” He also did the same to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:1.
So as Christians, you need to be strong because there are various things that will come your way and will test your faith. It could be in the area of your marriage where your chastity is tested, it could be at the place of work where others may want you to join in doing things contrary to your employer’s purpose, it could even be in the ministry when you hear of what some brethren are doing contrary to the word of God.
In all situations, you need to remind yourself that Joseph was offended and tempted before he could fulfill his purpose. Similarly, our Lord Jesus was tempted several times but he remained strong till the end. What should therefore occupy your mind in all these is the advice given by David to Solomon in 1 Kings 2:2 (KJV), “I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man;” This does not have anything to do with gender but with your position in Christ which is a royal priest (1 Peter 2:9).
So you need to show your strength in Christ whenever you are tempted or offended (Matthew 18:7). Are you going through any form of challenge arising from offences by others? I pray that God will strengthen you and give you wisdom to make you victorious in Jesus name. One thing you should remember is that God will not allow you to be tempted beyond his grace available to you (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Prayer: Father, strengthen me to be victorious in all forms of offences and temptations that may come my way.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero