Securing The Throne Through Wisdom And Obedience Series

SECURING THE THRONE THROUGH WISDOM AND OBEDIENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Kings 2:1-46

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 4:7; Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Joshua 1:8-9; Psalm 1:1-3; Ecclesiastes 8:5

INTRODUCTION:

As David approached the end of his life, he called Solomon to his side and gave him final words of instruction. These were not merely political tips or family advice, but a charge rooted in covenant, obedience, and divine destiny. David understood that a throne without wisdom is vulnerable and that obedience to God is the foundation for lasting success.

Solomon had already been divinely appointed, but to stay enthroned, he would need divine guidance, moral courage, and wise judgment. David’s words reminded Solomon that power without the fear of God leads to ruin. Moreover, unfinished issues from David’s reign had to be handled with discretion and justice if the new king was to rule in peace.

This chapter teaches us that godly leadership must be built on wisdom, obedience, and strategic decision-making. It is not enough to be anointed; to preserve what God has given, a leader must walk in spiritual sensitivity, boldness, and careful stewardship.

1. LASTING SUCCESS BEGINS WITH OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD

David reminded Solomon that strength and prosperity come from walking in God’s statutes.

a) “Keep the charge of the Lord your God… that you may prosper in all that you do.” (1 Kings 2:3)

Success in leadership is inseparable from spiritual obedience.

b) Every true leader must be a student and doer of God’s Word

The Word is the foundation of righteous and enduring rule.

c) Obedience guarantees divine backing and favour throughout one’s assignment

Solomon’s stability would depend not on military power but spiritual alignment.

d) God always honours those who honour His Word in their daily leadership and decisions

Obedience is not an event—it is a lifestyle.

Biblical Example: Joshua prospered because he meditated on the Word and obeyed it fully (Joshua 1:8).

2. WISDOM IS NECESSARY FOR DEALING WITH LEGACY ISSUES

David instructed Solomon on how to handle unfinished matters with Joab, Shimei, and others.

a) “Act according to your wisdom, and do not let his gray hair go down to the grave in peace.” (1 Kings 2:6)

Leadership demands wisdom to resolve sensitive and lingering conflicts.

b) The next generation must not ignore unresolved issues of the past

What is tolerated may grow and become a threat to the new season.

c) Godly wisdom discerns when to show mercy and when to execute judgment

Solomon dealt differently with Adonijah, Abiathar, Joab, and Shimei.

d) A wise leader knows how to protect the future by confronting the past

This preserves peace and honour for the throne.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah addressed internal strife and external threats to secure the walls of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 5:6-13; 6:1-9).

3. COMPROMISE CAN OPEN THE DOOR TO DESTINY SABOTAGE

Adonijah’s subtle request revealed a deeper agenda.

a) “Now I ask one petition of you… Give me Abishag the Shunammite as wife.” (1 Kings 2:17)

Sometimes what appears harmless is a veiled power play.

b) Leaders must be discerning; not every request comes in innocence

Solomon recognised the threat behind Adonijah’s proposal.

c) Giving ground to manipulators can empower rebellion

Solomon acted decisively to remove Adonijah.

d) Compromise in leadership can weaken divine mandates

Righteous firmness is essential to preserve the vision.

Biblical Example: Saul’s compromise with Amalek cost him the kingdom (1 Samuel 15:9-23).

4. GODLY LEADERSHIP INVOLVES HARD DECISIONS FOR LONG-TERM STABILITY

Solomon’s early reign was marked by necessary but difficult judgments.

a) “So the kingdom was established in the hand of Solomon.” (1 Kings 2:46)

Stability sometimes comes after difficult purging.

b) Leadership is not always about popularity—it’s about preserving purpose

Solomon had to remove threats, even from among close allies.

c) Mercy without discernment can breed rebellion

Justice must be served in alignment with God’s purpose.

d) Lasting peace is built on courageous obedience to God, not people-pleasing

Solomon’s tough choices ensured stability for his reign.

Biblical Example: Moses stood against Korah's rebellion to protect Israel’s spiritual direction (Numbers 16:1-35).

5. THE FEAR OF GOD IS THE SUREST FOUNDATION FOR ANY THRONE

David pointed Solomon back to covenant as the root of authority.

a) “That the Lord may fulfil His word… saying, ‘If your sons take heed… they shall not fail a man on the throne.’” (1 Kings 2:4)

The fear of God secures the future of any leader or dynasty.

b) Political skill and military might are insufficient without spiritual depth

Solomon needed God more than advisors.

c) Rulership outside of divine counsel is destined to crumble

Only what is built on God’s word will stand the test of time.

d) God upholds the thrones of those who revere Him

The covenant is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Biblical Example: Hezekiah’s reverence and dependence on God preserved Judah in times of threat (2 Kings 19:14-20).