Life’s equation is simple: All we need to do is love what God loves and hate what He hates.
In 1 Kings 2:5-9, David stressed the importance of Solomon being aware of both friends and enemies around him. In spite of the thwarting of Adonijah’s attempt to snatch the throne, the kingdom’s security was still an open question. There were many conniving men afoot. Unfortunately, sometimes men show untimely grace to people who should be dealt with, and so leave troubles to fester, requiring the next generation to face a problem that should have been settled long ago. Such was the case here. David had ignored Adonijah’s attempted coup, albeit weakened by advancing years. But much earlier he hadn’t tackled Shimei’s rebelliousness. Nor had he acted on Joab’s ruthless murders of Abner and Amasa, nor his insubordination regarding Absalom. Now Solomon would have to deal with these threats. Remember that God’s Ideal King was selected for at least two reasons: “You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions” (Heb 1:9). We cannot have one without the other. In fact, if we love the right, lesser loves will fade away; and if we hate evil, we will hate nothing else. On the other side of the coin, David also wanted Solomon to be loyal to old friendships, like that of Barzillai and his family. In his hour of great need when fleeing the palace coup, Barzillai, then an old man, heroically and sacrificially provided for David and his companions. Some of us have a hard time forgetting those who wronged us, but do forget those who ministered to our past needs. Today would be a good day to show ourselves friendly (Prov 18:24) and reconnect with those who have enriched our lives.