God and government

1 Kings 2:5-10 (NLT)
5 “And there is something else. You know what Joab son of Zeruiah did to me when he murdered my two army commanders, Abner son of Ner and Amasa son of Jether. He pretended that it was an act of war, but it was done in a time of peace, staining his belt and sandals with innocent blood. 6 Do with him what you think best, but don’t let him grow old and go to his grave in peace. 7 “Be kind to the sons of Barzillai of Gilead. Make them permanent guests at your table, for they took care of me when I fled from your brother Absalom. 8 “And remember Shimei son of Gera, the man from Bahurim in Benjamin. He cursed me with a terrible curse as I was fleeing to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me at the Jordan River, I swore by the Lord that I would not kill him. 9 But that oath does not make him innocent. You are a wise man, and you will know how to arrange a bloody death for him.” 10 Then David died and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David.

These verses are the final words of King David to his son Solomon right before his death. Memories of rights and wrongs come to David in his final moments. David gives charge to Solomon to care for those who have been good to the family and to take justice as Solomon saw fit against those who had done evil. David acknowledged Solomon was wise and that he would know what to do.

These last words of a father to his son played an important role in Solomon’s duties as King. David gave three instructions; one of peace and two to ensure justice. When Solomon wrote Proverbs 27:10 he may have thought of his Father’s instruction; for his words say,”Never abandon a friend—either yours or your father’s. When disaster strikes, you won’t have to ask your brother for assistance. It’s better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away.” And while Solomon remembered that thought he also remembered the orders of his father to seek justice upon Joab and Shimei. Solomon went on to carry out plans which lead to their death. As King, Solomon was tasked to carry out justice. While some may view Solomon’s actions as vengeance they fell under the duty of the king and Solomon acted properly in his authority as king. Often we do not agree with the justice our government applies, but it is a responsibility given by God. For the bible tells us that government exists because of God. Even Christ respected the government of his time although the government’s actions lead to his innocent death. Pray for our leaders that they may use justice wisely and apply it with wisdom. Pray God would lead them to do all that is right.