1 Chronicles 22:13 – “Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, David gives Solomon a crucial piece of advice: if Solomon is to succeed as king and in building the temple, he must carefully follow God’s laws. David reminds Solomon that his success is directly tied to obedience to the commands given by God through Moses. Solomon’s strength and courage are also emphasized, as David encourages him not to be afraid or discouraged. The message is clear—true success comes from obedience to God, and the strength to lead well comes from faith in God’s guidance and promises.
David’s words are a reminder that leading God’s people requires more than political or military skill. It requires faithfulness to God’s Word and the willingness to trust God in the face of challenges.
Historical Context
David is speaking to Solomon as he prepares to pass on the kingship. Solomon would soon take on the responsibility of ruling Israel and building the temple that David had wanted to construct. The laws that David refers to were the foundation of Israel’s covenant with God, given through Moses at Mount Sinai. These laws governed not only the religious practices of Israel but also the nation’s social, political, and moral life.
At this time, Solomon was still young and inexperienced, and the task ahead of him was enormous. The temple construction, combined with leading an entire nation, required not only practical wisdom but also a deep commitment to following God’s ways. David’s reminder to Solomon that success depends on obedience to God reflects the importance of living according to God’s Word, especially for those in leadership.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the biblical principle that true success comes from obeying God’s commands. In God’s kingdom, success is not measured by wealth, power, or achievements, but by faithfulness to His Word. David’s instructions to Solomon highlight the fact that obedience to God is not just a personal matter—it is foundational for leadership and for the well-being of the nation.
The call to be “strong and courageous” is also a theological reminder that obedience to God often requires courage. Following God’s commands can be challenging, especially when it goes against popular opinion or involves difficult choices. Solomon would need to rely on God for strength and courage to lead Israel faithfully.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse combines both instruction and encouragement. The first part of the verse focuses on the condition for success: careful observance of God’s law. The second part shifts to encouragement, with the call to be strong, courageous, and not afraid. This pairing of instruction and encouragement reflects the biblical pattern of connecting obedience with trust in God’s presence and strength.
The phrase “if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws” emphasizes the importance of paying close attention to God’s Word. Success is not just about knowing the law, but about carefully following it. The call to “be strong and courageous” echoes earlier biblical passages, particularly God’s words to Joshua when he took leadership of Israel (Joshua 1:6-9). This repetition reinforces the idea that courage is necessary for godly leadership.
Biblical Cross-References
- Joshua 1:7-9 – God’s words to Joshua mirror David’s advice to Solomon. Both leaders are told to be strong, courageous, and obedient to God’s law as the key to success.
- Deuteronomy 31:6 – Moses encourages the Israelites with similar words, reminding them to be strong and courageous as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
- Psalm 1:1-3 – This psalm emphasizes that those who meditate on and follow God’s law will prosper in all they do.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that true success in life comes from following God’s Word. Like Solomon, we are called to be faithful to God’s commands, trusting that He knows what is best for our lives. Obedience to God’s Word brings blessing and success—not necessarily in worldly terms, but in the sense of living a life that pleases God and fulfills His purpose for us.
The call to be strong and courageous is also relevant for Christians facing challenges in life. Whether in leadership, personal decisions, or standing up for what is right, we need the courage that comes from knowing God is with us. We can take comfort in the fact that God promises to guide and strengthen us as we follow Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire to see His people succeed by living according to His will. God doesn’t leave Solomon to figure things out on his own; He provides clear guidance through His laws and promises to be with Solomon as he leads. God’s commandments are not burdensome, but are given out of love to guide His people toward a life of blessing, peace, and true success.
God’s encouragement to “be strong and courageous” also shows His loving care for those who follow Him. God understands that obedience can be difficult and sometimes frightening, but He reassures us of His presence and His help in times of need. His love provides both the guidance and the strength we need to follow His will.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of the law and the perfect example of obedience to God. Jesus lived in complete obedience to God’s Word, and through His life, death, and resurrection, He made it possible for us to be in right relationship with God. Jesus embodied the strength and courage that David encouraged Solomon to have, especially as He faced the cross.
Through Jesus, we not only have the perfect example of obedience but also the grace to follow God’s commands. Jesus promises to be with His followers always (Matthew 28:20), giving us the strength and courage we need to live in obedience to God. In Christ, we find both the wisdom and the power to succeed in the life God has called us to live.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge our understanding of success? What does it mean to succeed in God’s eyes?
- What are some ways we can be more careful in observing God’s commands in our daily lives?
- How can we rely on God for strength and courage when we face difficult decisions or challenges in following His Word?
- How does Jesus’ example of obedience to God help us in our own walk of faith?
- What specific areas of your life do you need to trust God’s guidance and strength as you seek to follow His will?