Main Text: 1 Kings 2:1-2
“I am about to go the way of all the earth. So be strong and act like a man.” — 1 Kings 2:2
As David approached the end of his life, he gave Solomon one final charge. These were not merely the words of a king to his successor, but the heartfelt counsel of a father to his son.
While society may not always celebrate fatherhood, Scripture places great value on fathers and their role in shaping lives. God Himself reveals Himself as Father, and throughout the Bible, fathers are portrayed as guides, teachers, protectors, and sources of wisdom.
A godly father does more than give birth to children; he imparts wisdom, direction, and instruction for life.
Proverbs 4:1 says: “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction. Pay attention and gain understanding.”
Wherever you are in life, someone has already walked that road. A father’s experience can save you years of unnecessary pain. You don’t have the luxury of time to make every mistake yourself. Learn from the ones who’ve gone before.
Samson had every gift — supernatural strength, divine calling. But he ignored his father’s warning about a foreign woman. He died blind, humiliated, and broken (Judges 14–16).
Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, inherited the throne. The people asked if he would lead with kindness. The elders gave him wise counsel. His peers told him to rule with an iron fist. He listened to his peers and lost his kingdom(1 Kings 12:1-19).
One bad piece of advice — followed — can destroy everything.
Don’t assume you already know. Proverbs 4:20–22 says: “My son, pay attention to my words, for they are life to those who find them and health to their whole body.” One word from a father can redirect your entire life.
Learn from his victories. Learn from his mistakes. Wherever you are, a father has already stood there. His experience is a shortcut you can’t buy.
Malachi asks: “If I am a father, where is my honour?” The Bible warns that dishonouring a father brings serious consequences. You will be where he is one day. Honour him now (Malachi 1:6).
Every person passes through this. Rich, strong, famous — it doesn’t matter. Death comes to all. That truth alone should humble you.
Life moves fast. Don’t waste it thinking you have all the time in the world. You have one life. Handle it wisely.
Life is not for the faint-hearted. Challenges will come — sudden, unexpected, and hard. What carries you through is strength.
God told Joshua three times: “Be strong and courageous” — then added, “Have I not commanded you?” It’s not a suggestion. It’s a command.
In Haggai 2:4–5, God says: “Be strong… and work. For I am with you.” That’s a covenant. Your job is to be strong. God takes care of the rest.
This is a call to maturity, responsibility, and courage — not just physical toughness.
David’s advice to Solomon is God’s advice to every son and daughter today. Know that time is short. Be strong — it is both a command and a covenant. And honor the fathers God has placed in your life.
When God gives you a father, he has given you one of your greatest assets. Don’t waste it.
(Written from a sermon preached by Rev. Simon Ampofo at Gracefields Chapel – Havilah City Temple on the 21st of June, 2026. To watch and listen to the full message, click this link)
