King David was nearing the time of his death and was giving some final instructions and advice to his son, Solomon. (His last words are recorded in 1 Kings 2:2-9.) What would be some of the most important things that a father could say to his son to carry with him? The first three statements from David say it all: “(1) Be strong. (2) Prove yourself a man. (3) Keep the charge of the Lord your God” (1 Kgs. 2:2-3).
What does he mean to “prove yourself a man”? Solomon needed to stand out. His behavior needed to exhibit great wisdom, courage and determination—that of a man. Adam Clarke noted, “Act like a rational being, and not like a brute,” and then went on to note, “He acts most like a man who is most devoted to his God.” That’s why David went on to say, “Keep the charge of the Lord your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes…” Real men follow the Lord!
What advice would you give to young men today? How about, “Prove yourself a man!”