May 29 "Governed by The Divine Will" I Kings 1-2

David speaks his last words to Solomon: “I am about to go the way of all the earth. Be strong, and show yourself a man, and keep the charge of the Lord your God, walking in his ways and keeping his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do." I Kings 2:2-3.

Everyone alive, prophets and poor men, must go the way of all the earth.  No escape. David knows he is about to go this way. It's described as a "way" not a destination.  His charge to his son is excellent:  Govern yourself by the Divine Will.  That's the act to follow.  It's a great trust for Solomon to hear his dying father give such a resolute charge.  What do these last words speak to my heart?  Show yourself a man. 

A good rule to act by:  Govern Yourself.

A good attitude to live by:  Be strong and show yourself a man.

A good way to rule:  Show kindness to those who took care of you.  And David goes on to remember those who injured him, as well.  

These desires we hold, may they ring ever true.  Expose those desires less than the govern of Your Will.  "Desires to be effective, to depend on biblical principles for success in family, church, career, and friendships may be legitimately strong.  But when that desire is stronger than the desire to be holy and to depend on God's power for becoming more like Jesus, then you will not advance My plan, no matter how much apparent success you enjoy."  66 LL - I Kings 

COME BOLDLY:  Timeless Prayers   -
As we long to end our own lives well, may we allow You, O God, to govern our souls; make us strong men and women deep inside where it really counts; and help us to show kindness to all who have touched our lives.

PHOTO:  Sitting by a pond in the Texas Hill Country, reflecting on governing myself by the sovereign Divine Will. So what does that really mean for me this day?  #holinesstrumpseffectiveness