David loved Solomon with all his heart. God had been David’s closest friend from his childhood. He wanted Solomon to follow in his footsteps, for God had openly declared that David was “a man after his own heart.”  David instructed Solomon in the ways of the Lord, and we can take that same instruction and apply it to our lives.  

“Son, Listen to my words. Hear what I’m telling you right now. It’s important. Really listen to what I’m saying to you. Keep my written instruction for you always before your eyes. Read it, think about what I’m saying and apply my words to your current situation. Focus your attention on what I’m telling you and do not be distracted from the counsel I’m giving you. Hold onto the words I’m telling you and treasure them deep in your heart. Here’s the reason, because these words will bring you a joyful and fulfilled life if you will simply apply them, and will also bring healing and health for your body. Of utmost importance, let me say this: Keep your heart pure and true with all the determination you have. Why is it so important? Because your heart is the very core of your being and from it your life, like a spring of water, will flow out. So, keep your spring unclogged and uncluttered and you’ll find that life will supernaturally begin to emanate from within you, blessing both you and others around you. Remember, your heart is the source of your life. Keep it clean.  

So, pay close attention to your own purity, be very careful not to tell lies or be mischievous and deceptive around others. Be sure your lips speak only what is the honest truth. Like an eagle, keep your eye trained on what you’re doing and be careful where you go. I’m talking about where you go in the world as well as where you let the thoughts of your mind wander to. Not everywhere is good and productive for you and you need to keep a firm grip on your thought life.  

By following my words your future will be sure and secure, and your life will be filled with blessing. One final word, do not turn from your chaste and pure lifestyle either to the left or to the right, but determine within yourself that you will live your life straight and true before God. And when evil comes knocking, turn quickly away and escape from any traps he tries to lay in your path.”  

By following these simple words of instruction, my son, you’ll live a life of happiness and peace, and God will bless your life richly.” 

20 My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. 

21 Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; 

22 For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh. 

23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life. 

24 Put away from you a deceitful mouth, And put perverse lips far from you. 

25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, And your eyelids look right before you. 

26 Ponder the path of your feet, And let all your ways be established. 

27 Do not turn to the right or the left; Remove your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:20-27 NKJV)