1 00:00:00,240 --> 00:00:03,560 Speaker 1: Hi, I'm doctor Tony evaner host for Heroes in the Bible. 2 00:00:04,320 --> 00:00:07,040 Speaker 1: If you've enjoyed this podcast so far, please share it 3 00:00:07,080 --> 00:00:10,600 Speaker 1: with your family and friends and help us spread God's word. 4 00:00:11,400 --> 00:00:19,880 Speaker 1: Welcome to the epic Adventure of David, a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal, 5 00:00:20,000 --> 00:00:22,880 Speaker 1: and murder. While most people know of David the myth, 6 00:00:22,960 --> 00:00:26,840 Speaker 1: few know about David the man. This is our final episode. 7 00:00:27,000 --> 00:00:28,920 Speaker 1: It has been a joy to go on this journey 8 00:00:28,960 --> 00:00:32,200 Speaker 1: with you. David's story is rich with deep truths about 9 00:00:32,200 --> 00:00:35,839 Speaker 1: the faithfulness of God, the fragility of man, and the 10 00:00:35,880 --> 00:00:39,280 Speaker 1: heart of a true hero. This episode is the final 11 00:00:39,360 --> 00:00:42,560 Speaker 1: seal on the scroll of David's life, conveying his last 12 00:00:42,560 --> 00:00:45,280 Speaker 1: words and wishes for the kingdom he gave his life 13 00:00:45,280 --> 00:00:49,320 Speaker 1: to protect. In this episode, David chooses his heir to 14 00:00:49,400 --> 00:00:51,879 Speaker 1: the throne, and we're given hope that he will be 15 00:00:51,920 --> 00:00:55,680 Speaker 1: a good steward of God's people. As the flickering flame 16 00:00:55,960 --> 00:00:59,280 Speaker 1: of David's life phase, we are left with one resounding 17 00:00:59,320 --> 00:01:03,160 Speaker 1: theme that prevents throughout scripture. David is not the greatest 18 00:01:03,160 --> 00:01:06,760 Speaker 1: hero of the Bible. However, as we listen to his 19 00:01:06,840 --> 00:01:10,760 Speaker 1: final poetic musings and contemplate his legacy. We can't help 20 00:01:10,760 --> 00:01:13,400 Speaker 1: but smile and conceive that while he may not be 21 00:01:13,480 --> 00:01:17,480 Speaker 1: the Bible's greatest hero, he certainly came the closest. David's 22 00:01:17,560 --> 00:01:19,840 Speaker 1: heir will have a lot to live up to, and 23 00:01:19,880 --> 00:01:22,280 Speaker 1: we are certain that he will have faith at times 24 00:01:22,360 --> 00:01:25,360 Speaker 1: and fall at times like his father. Isn't that one 25 00:01:25,400 --> 00:01:29,199 Speaker 1: of the greater themes of our story so far? Faithfulness 26 00:01:29,240 --> 00:01:33,480 Speaker 1: requires that we fail. God has called you and I 27 00:01:33,760 --> 00:01:36,720 Speaker 1: to a grand adventure, and it would be silly to 28 00:01:36,760 --> 00:01:39,479 Speaker 1: think that we can take risks without stumbling. Every once 29 00:01:39,520 --> 00:01:43,479 Speaker 1: in a while, David stumbled and God propped him back up. 30 00:01:44,160 --> 00:01:46,480 Speaker 1: David's story reminds us that we can be brave, but 31 00:01:46,520 --> 00:01:49,640 Speaker 1: when we aren't, God will be brave for us. We 32 00:01:49,680 --> 00:01:52,080 Speaker 1: can be wise, but when we aren't, God will be 33 00:01:52,120 --> 00:01:55,040 Speaker 1: wise for us. We can be righteous, but when we aren't, 34 00:01:55,440 --> 00:01:58,800 Speaker 1: God will be righteous on our behalf. God bless the 35 00:01:58,840 --> 00:02:02,400 Speaker 1: story of David. Let's finish up this glorious series with 36 00:02:02,560 --> 00:02:05,080 Speaker 1: episode thirty, The Death of a Hero. 37 00:02:11,040 --> 00:02:16,000 Speaker 2: Prelude to Chapter thirty. Samuel picked up his staff and 38 00:02:16,120 --> 00:02:19,320 Speaker 2: wandered past the stables and up the grassy hill. The 39 00:02:19,400 --> 00:02:22,720 Speaker 2: wild flowers were in full bloom, arranging the grassy hills 40 00:02:22,720 --> 00:02:26,120 Speaker 2: in splendor. Soft music could be heard from a distance. 41 00:02:27,040 --> 00:02:29,600 Speaker 2: Samuel smiled as he looked at the flowers swaying back 42 00:02:29,639 --> 00:02:32,080 Speaker 2: and forth in the breeze. It was as if they 43 00:02:32,080 --> 00:02:35,240 Speaker 2: were dancing to the music. Samuel made his way up 44 00:02:35,240 --> 00:02:38,440 Speaker 2: the hill. Sheep were grazing lazily in the mild sun. 45 00:02:39,120 --> 00:02:42,520 Speaker 2: The music seemed to soothe them. Samuel looked around for 46 00:02:42,560 --> 00:02:45,600 Speaker 2: the source of the melodies. Underneath the cypress tree in 47 00:02:45,600 --> 00:02:49,480 Speaker 2: the shade was the shepherd boy Jesse spoke of. He 48 00:02:49,560 --> 00:02:52,240 Speaker 2: leaned his back against the trunk of the tree, strumming 49 00:02:52,280 --> 00:02:55,680 Speaker 2: his harp to the same tempo of the wind. Samuel 50 00:02:55,680 --> 00:02:58,720 Speaker 2: approached the tree, trying not to interrupt the boys playing. 51 00:02:59,760 --> 00:03:01,960 Speaker 2: He sat on a stone only a few yards away 52 00:03:01,960 --> 00:03:05,239 Speaker 2: from where the boy lounged. The old prophet leaned back 53 00:03:05,280 --> 00:03:08,440 Speaker 2: and observed him. He could not have been any older 54 00:03:08,440 --> 00:03:11,880 Speaker 2: than sixteen. His long hair was lighter than his brother's. 55 00:03:12,520 --> 00:03:16,280 Speaker 2: He was not as looming as his oldest brother Eliab. However, 56 00:03:16,520 --> 00:03:19,960 Speaker 2: he was very handsome and ruddy in appearance. Samuel was 57 00:03:20,040 --> 00:03:22,160 Speaker 2: content to be silent for a while and listened to 58 00:03:22,240 --> 00:03:25,320 Speaker 2: the music. The song was a bomb to his weary 59 00:03:25,360 --> 00:03:29,440 Speaker 2: and downcast sole. The boy's music was emotional and somber, 60 00:03:29,800 --> 00:03:34,280 Speaker 2: yet filled with an unwavering joy. Clearly it was a 61 00:03:34,320 --> 00:03:37,680 Speaker 2: song written from the heart. As the song gently came 62 00:03:37,720 --> 00:03:40,800 Speaker 2: to a close, Samuel leaned over as he sat and 63 00:03:40,920 --> 00:03:45,040 Speaker 2: cleared his throat. The boy jumped back and grabbed his staff. 64 00:03:45,560 --> 00:03:50,000 Speaker 2: Who are you, the young shepherd said quickly. Samuel laughed 65 00:03:50,040 --> 00:03:51,040 Speaker 2: and waved his hands. 66 00:03:51,200 --> 00:03:51,760 Speaker 1: Ha ha ha. 67 00:03:52,280 --> 00:03:55,560 Speaker 3: I'm sorry if I startled you, my son, Please do 68 00:03:55,600 --> 00:03:56,280 Speaker 3: not be alarmed. 69 00:03:56,320 --> 00:03:58,880 Speaker 2: I come in peace. The boy lowered his staff and 70 00:03:58,960 --> 00:04:00,320 Speaker 2: looked at the man up and down. 71 00:04:00,640 --> 00:04:04,200 Speaker 4: You must be the prophet I heard about. I could 72 00:04:04,240 --> 00:04:07,360 Speaker 4: hear my father clamoring to my family about you from here. 73 00:04:07,880 --> 00:04:11,360 Speaker 2: The boy bowed a knee in respect. Samuel peered at 74 00:04:11,360 --> 00:04:13,680 Speaker 2: the boy for a long while before speaking again. 75 00:04:15,040 --> 00:04:17,960 Speaker 1: Tell me why were you not in attendance at the feast, 76 00:04:18,400 --> 00:04:19,240 Speaker 1: he asked. 77 00:04:20,360 --> 00:04:21,240 Speaker 2: The boy shrugged. 78 00:04:21,480 --> 00:04:24,800 Speaker 4: I am only a shepherd, he replied. I suppose my 79 00:04:25,000 --> 00:04:26,520 Speaker 4: place is among my sheep. 80 00:04:26,880 --> 00:04:30,160 Speaker 2: In that moment, Samuel felt a surge of God's joy 81 00:04:30,279 --> 00:04:33,039 Speaker 2: well up from within him, as if the voice of 82 00:04:33,120 --> 00:04:36,599 Speaker 2: God was striking like lightning in his mind. He could 83 00:04:36,600 --> 00:04:39,520 Speaker 2: hear the Lord say, arise. 84 00:04:39,800 --> 00:04:43,839 Speaker 4: Anoint him with This is the one I have chosen. 85 00:04:44,600 --> 00:04:46,120 Speaker 2: Samuel stood in front of the boy. 86 00:04:46,880 --> 00:04:48,760 Speaker 1: Surely you are not only a shepherd. 87 00:04:49,560 --> 00:04:53,880 Speaker 2: What is your name, David, he replied, Kneel before the Lord, David, 88 00:04:54,800 --> 00:04:58,120 Speaker 2: for the Lord desires to bless you. Samuel took his 89 00:04:58,240 --> 00:05:01,839 Speaker 2: horn of oil and anointed David's and the spirit of 90 00:05:01,880 --> 00:05:04,960 Speaker 2: God rushed upon the shepherd boy like a mighty tempest. 91 00:05:05,680 --> 00:05:10,440 Speaker 2: A serge of courageous fire burned within David's belly. Although 92 00:05:10,520 --> 00:05:13,640 Speaker 2: David hadn't the slightest clue why Samuel had anointed him, 93 00:05:14,240 --> 00:05:17,120 Speaker 2: he knew that from that day forward, the Lord had 94 00:05:17,160 --> 00:05:23,800 Speaker 2: destined him for great things, Chapter thirty, Death of a Hero. 95 00:05:26,040 --> 00:05:28,599 Speaker 2: Every moment was like being lost in the dead of winter. 96 00:05:29,480 --> 00:05:33,440 Speaker 2: His bones rattled and his limbs felt numb. Every movement 97 00:05:33,440 --> 00:05:37,560 Speaker 2: of his body was an insurmountable task. The giant slayer, 98 00:05:38,279 --> 00:05:41,880 Speaker 2: the warrior King, laid awake in his bed, unable to 99 00:05:41,960 --> 00:05:45,640 Speaker 2: care for himself. His broad shoulders that once held up 100 00:05:45,640 --> 00:05:48,640 Speaker 2: the armies of Israel were now sunk into a pillow, 101 00:05:49,040 --> 00:05:52,320 Speaker 2: never to bear any weight again. He moaned as he 102 00:05:52,400 --> 00:05:56,039 Speaker 2: rolled onto his side. Slowly, he lifted himself up and 103 00:05:56,080 --> 00:05:59,240 Speaker 2: stepped off his bed. He could not feel the cedar 104 00:05:59,279 --> 00:06:02,440 Speaker 2: floor beneath him. The man who once ran across the 105 00:06:02,440 --> 00:06:05,560 Speaker 2: wilderness to save his family could now barely make it 106 00:06:05,600 --> 00:06:09,000 Speaker 2: from his bed to his fireplace. He struggled to get 107 00:06:09,040 --> 00:06:11,200 Speaker 2: to his seat by the fire and groaned as he 108 00:06:11,279 --> 00:06:14,520 Speaker 2: sat down. He held out his hands to warm them, 109 00:06:14,720 --> 00:06:17,920 Speaker 2: but it was no use. He was perpetually cold and 110 00:06:18,000 --> 00:06:21,640 Speaker 2: shivered like he was caught up in a snowstorm. He 111 00:06:21,720 --> 00:06:24,680 Speaker 2: stared into the fading fire. It had been burning for 112 00:06:24,720 --> 00:06:27,640 Speaker 2: a while, but the coals broke off from one another, 113 00:06:28,000 --> 00:06:31,960 Speaker 2: causing the flame to dissipate. David took an iron rod 114 00:06:32,000 --> 00:06:35,320 Speaker 2: and moved them closer together. The small flame was stoked, 115 00:06:35,560 --> 00:06:39,040 Speaker 2: and the fire began to regain its height. David smiled 116 00:06:39,600 --> 00:06:43,000 Speaker 2: and set down the rod beside his chair. He drew 117 00:06:43,040 --> 00:06:46,800 Speaker 2: a deep breath and coughed. He continued to shiver beside 118 00:06:46,839 --> 00:06:50,400 Speaker 2: the fire, contemplating the state of his kingdom. The major 119 00:06:50,480 --> 00:06:53,760 Speaker 2: enemies of the Lord had been vanquished, and Israel had 120 00:06:53,839 --> 00:06:57,599 Speaker 2: established itself as the elder brother of the region. Although 121 00:06:57,640 --> 00:07:01,279 Speaker 2: there were more enemies on the horizon, Israel's immediate safety 122 00:07:01,360 --> 00:07:05,719 Speaker 2: was secure. The shivering King smiled, content that his final 123 00:07:05,800 --> 00:07:10,040 Speaker 2: years as king successfully brought a decade of peace. The 124 00:07:10,120 --> 00:07:15,200 Speaker 2: door knocked, Come in, David said, in her raspy old voice. 125 00:07:15,240 --> 00:07:18,120 Speaker 2: A young woman walked in. She had dark skin that 126 00:07:18,200 --> 00:07:20,559 Speaker 2: was tanned from the sun, and her hair was pulled 127 00:07:20,600 --> 00:07:23,840 Speaker 2: back behind her head covering. She had a radiant smile, 128 00:07:24,280 --> 00:07:28,040 Speaker 2: and hidden behind her eyes was poetic wisdom. A younger 129 00:07:28,160 --> 00:07:31,840 Speaker 2: David would have been intoxicated by her. However, in his 130 00:07:31,920 --> 00:07:35,840 Speaker 2: old age, David's desires for pleasure had faded. She was 131 00:07:35,840 --> 00:07:39,080 Speaker 2: his nurse and tended to him day and night. She 132 00:07:39,200 --> 00:07:41,360 Speaker 2: also slept with him in his bed to keep him warm, 133 00:07:42,000 --> 00:07:44,920 Speaker 2: but the two did not know each other intimately. She 134 00:07:45,080 --> 00:07:47,400 Speaker 2: was like a daughter to him, and he trusted her 135 00:07:47,440 --> 00:07:53,400 Speaker 2: with his health and well being. Hello, Abishag, David whispered, 136 00:07:53,680 --> 00:07:55,200 Speaker 2: wrapping himself in his robes. 137 00:07:55,880 --> 00:07:57,320 Speaker 3: You are out of bed again. 138 00:07:57,560 --> 00:08:01,800 Speaker 2: Abishag said sternly. Her voice was gentle and soft. She 139 00:08:01,880 --> 00:08:04,200 Speaker 2: could curse him and it would still sound like a 140 00:08:04,240 --> 00:08:08,400 Speaker 2: sweet blessing. David smiled and gestured for her to sit 141 00:08:08,440 --> 00:08:11,440 Speaker 2: beside him. The king sighed and continued to look at 142 00:08:11,440 --> 00:08:16,880 Speaker 2: the fire. I fear that my final days are drawing near. 143 00:08:17,240 --> 00:08:18,880 Speaker 2: He said, as. 144 00:08:18,720 --> 00:08:23,200 Speaker 4: I lay in my bed, sometimes I wish I had 145 00:08:23,240 --> 00:08:28,800 Speaker 4: died years ago in the glory of battle. 146 00:08:29,760 --> 00:08:32,360 Speaker 3: Passing at an old age in your bed is its 147 00:08:32,360 --> 00:08:36,079 Speaker 3: own glory. Abishak said, you have lived long and fought 148 00:08:36,160 --> 00:08:38,880 Speaker 3: many battles. You have earned a moment of peace. 149 00:08:39,520 --> 00:08:41,439 Speaker 2: David chuckled and began to cough again. 150 00:08:42,800 --> 00:08:47,560 Speaker 4: I have earned nothing, my dear. It is the Lord 151 00:08:47,600 --> 00:08:49,840 Speaker 4: who has given me everything. 152 00:08:50,480 --> 00:08:53,520 Speaker 2: Abishank smiled and escorted David back to his bed. She 153 00:08:53,679 --> 00:08:56,040 Speaker 2: dressed him in another layer of robes and tucked him 154 00:08:56,080 --> 00:08:59,079 Speaker 2: under the blankets. She went to the fire and placed 155 00:08:59,080 --> 00:09:02,440 Speaker 2: another log in. The flame consumed it quickly, and the 156 00:09:02,520 --> 00:09:06,240 Speaker 2: room was filled with more warmth. However, the king continued 157 00:09:06,240 --> 00:09:10,400 Speaker 2: to shiver. His bones were brittle and losing life. Abhishak 158 00:09:10,440 --> 00:09:12,720 Speaker 2: crawled into bed with him and kept her body close. 159 00:09:13,440 --> 00:09:16,000 Speaker 2: The king sighed a breath of relief and fell asleep. 160 00:09:18,600 --> 00:09:21,880 Speaker 2: Fifty horsemen rode up the hills with brilliantly adorned armor. 161 00:09:22,520 --> 00:09:26,160 Speaker 2: The sound of galloping thoroughbreds echoed across the plains leading 162 00:09:26,240 --> 00:09:29,760 Speaker 2: up to joe AB's estate. Behind them was Prince Adenaija, 163 00:09:29,960 --> 00:09:33,800 Speaker 2: David's eldest son. After the death of Absalom. He was 164 00:09:33,840 --> 00:09:36,960 Speaker 2: mounted on a black horse and adorned with golden scaled armor. 165 00:09:37,840 --> 00:09:40,920 Speaker 2: His breastplate was laced with jewels, and his belt shimmered 166 00:09:40,920 --> 00:09:44,319 Speaker 2: with gemstones. At Anaija was the most handsome man in 167 00:09:44,400 --> 00:09:48,000 Speaker 2: all Israel. His long curls gracefully blew in the wind, 168 00:09:48,679 --> 00:09:52,280 Speaker 2: and his broad shoulders and chests accentuated his decket and armor. 169 00:09:53,160 --> 00:09:55,400 Speaker 2: Joe Ab was standing in front of his home, leaning 170 00:09:55,400 --> 00:09:59,520 Speaker 2: on his cane for balance. At Anaijah dismounted his horse 171 00:09:59,640 --> 00:10:01,959 Speaker 2: and held although his arms to embrace Joab. 172 00:10:02,480 --> 00:10:06,600 Speaker 5: Israel's greatest commander. Joe Ab, how are you, old friend? 173 00:10:07,280 --> 00:10:09,680 Speaker 2: Joab bowed his head and the two of them hugged. 174 00:10:10,559 --> 00:10:13,320 Speaker 6: Dear Prince Adnija, I see you who have come with 175 00:10:13,400 --> 00:10:15,360 Speaker 6: a king like entourage. 176 00:10:14,880 --> 00:10:18,880 Speaker 2: He said, gesturing to the fifty men behind him. Adonijah 177 00:10:18,920 --> 00:10:19,960 Speaker 2: looked back and shrugged. 178 00:10:20,760 --> 00:10:22,960 Speaker 5: Well, if I am to be king soon, it is 179 00:10:23,040 --> 00:10:26,440 Speaker 5: best for me to begin preparing myself. These men are 180 00:10:26,480 --> 00:10:29,959 Speaker 5: the finest young warriors in Israel. I have recruited them 181 00:10:30,000 --> 00:10:31,360 Speaker 5: to be my personal guard. 182 00:10:32,400 --> 00:10:36,200 Speaker 6: Impressive, Joeab exclaimed, Come in, we have much to discuss. 183 00:10:36,600 --> 00:10:40,440 Speaker 2: The two men walked into Joab's home. Abiathar, the priest, 184 00:10:40,600 --> 00:10:43,920 Speaker 2: was already inside waiting. The three of them sat down 185 00:10:43,960 --> 00:10:46,800 Speaker 2: to discuss the future of Israel and the succession of 186 00:10:46,840 --> 00:10:51,079 Speaker 2: the king. I will be king, Adanija said, plainly. A 187 00:10:51,240 --> 00:10:54,679 Speaker 2: king is in his final weeks. I have seen it myself. 188 00:10:54,760 --> 00:10:57,160 Speaker 2: He is near death, and it is time for us 189 00:10:57,200 --> 00:11:00,200 Speaker 2: to begin planning. Abiathar nodded and said. 190 00:11:01,160 --> 00:11:04,640 Speaker 6: Has David given you his blessing to succeed him? 191 00:11:05,000 --> 00:11:06,679 Speaker 2: And a Nija shook his head. 192 00:11:07,120 --> 00:11:09,760 Speaker 5: I am the oldest and the greatest warrior of my 193 00:11:09,920 --> 00:11:14,000 Speaker 5: father's sons. Although my father has not said so explicitly, 194 00:11:14,360 --> 00:11:17,720 Speaker 5: I have begun my preparations with you two behind me. 195 00:11:18,280 --> 00:11:21,360 Speaker 5: I am sure the nation will accept me as their king. 196 00:11:22,200 --> 00:11:24,760 Speaker 2: What if Solomon, Abiathar said. 197 00:11:24,880 --> 00:11:27,680 Speaker 6: Did not your father request he succeed him on the throne. 198 00:11:28,240 --> 00:11:29,360 Speaker 2: Joe ab scoffed and. 199 00:11:29,360 --> 00:11:32,160 Speaker 6: Said, Solomon does not have a steady enough hand to 200 00:11:32,200 --> 00:11:36,040 Speaker 6: be king. He wastes his time in scrolls, studying ancient 201 00:11:36,120 --> 00:11:39,040 Speaker 6: languages and philosophies. He reads more than he fights, and 202 00:11:39,080 --> 00:11:42,600 Speaker 6: he enjoys rhetoric more than action. Ada Nija is the 203 00:11:42,679 --> 00:11:46,240 Speaker 6: clear choice. He is a warrior and the firstborn. I 204 00:11:46,320 --> 00:11:48,840 Speaker 6: will support him as king. Even if David does not 205 00:11:48,920 --> 00:11:49,240 Speaker 6: see it. 206 00:11:49,800 --> 00:11:52,520 Speaker 2: Joe Ab and Abiathar spoke from a place of bitterness. 207 00:11:53,240 --> 00:11:56,560 Speaker 2: Since the victory over the Philistines, Beniah and Nathan the 208 00:11:56,559 --> 00:12:01,040 Speaker 2: Prophet had become David's closer, allies and confidants. They felt 209 00:12:01,080 --> 00:12:04,160 Speaker 2: cast aside and angry with David, so they conspired with 210 00:12:04,240 --> 00:12:08,120 Speaker 2: his son. But Joab says is true. Had a Nijah agreed, 211 00:12:09,160 --> 00:12:09,840 Speaker 2: Israel does. 212 00:12:09,760 --> 00:12:11,760 Speaker 5: Not need a philosopher, it needs a king. 213 00:12:12,200 --> 00:12:14,800 Speaker 2: The prince placed a hand on each of them and said. 214 00:12:14,800 --> 00:12:17,640 Speaker 5: You too are trusted by my father and respected by 215 00:12:17,679 --> 00:12:20,680 Speaker 5: the nation. If I have you two by my side, 216 00:12:21,040 --> 00:12:23,600 Speaker 5: I know I can become a great king. 217 00:12:24,600 --> 00:12:26,880 Speaker 2: The three of them continued to speak about the future 218 00:12:26,880 --> 00:12:31,000 Speaker 2: of Israel. They strategized, drew maps, and dreamed about a 219 00:12:31,040 --> 00:12:35,160 Speaker 2: new Israel under a new rule. However, in all their planning, 220 00:12:35,559 --> 00:12:38,160 Speaker 2: they did not think once to ask David for permission. 221 00:12:38,679 --> 00:12:40,840 Speaker 2: They kept him in the dark, hoping that he would 222 00:12:40,920 --> 00:12:43,400 Speaker 2: die before making his preference for Solomon known. 223 00:12:44,400 --> 00:12:47,760 Speaker 5: We must show the people that God favors us as well. 224 00:12:48,080 --> 00:12:52,320 Speaker 5: Had the Nijah, exclaimed Abbiaphar, a range of sacrifice for 225 00:12:52,480 --> 00:12:55,480 Speaker 5: us so that we might worship the Lord, then we 226 00:12:55,520 --> 00:12:58,040 Speaker 5: will hold a great feast for my siblings and the 227 00:12:58,080 --> 00:13:01,800 Speaker 5: nobles of Israel. I desire for them to recognize me 228 00:13:01,960 --> 00:13:02,520 Speaker 5: as king. 229 00:13:03,000 --> 00:13:07,120 Speaker 2: Abiathar stood and bowed. It was a brilliant idea. So 230 00:13:07,160 --> 00:13:10,319 Speaker 2: they met on a hill called serpent Stone. The sons 231 00:13:10,360 --> 00:13:13,480 Speaker 2: of David, the royal officials of Judah, and the rich 232 00:13:13,559 --> 00:13:18,440 Speaker 2: nobles of Israel were all in attendance. Adenija sacrificed sheep, oxen, 233 00:13:18,679 --> 00:13:22,160 Speaker 2: and fattened cattle before the lord. They burned the fat 234 00:13:22,160 --> 00:13:24,480 Speaker 2: of the animals as an offering and cooked the meat 235 00:13:24,480 --> 00:13:28,360 Speaker 2: for themselves to feast. They gathered in celebrations of Adanaija. 236 00:13:29,320 --> 00:13:31,920 Speaker 2: They raised their comps to his future reign as king 237 00:13:32,000 --> 00:13:36,120 Speaker 2: of Israel. However, David was not in attendance, nor did 238 00:13:36,120 --> 00:13:39,240 Speaker 2: he know of their gathering. All of David's sons were 239 00:13:39,240 --> 00:13:42,760 Speaker 2: there except for Solomon, and all of David's officials except 240 00:13:42,800 --> 00:13:47,520 Speaker 2: for Benaiah and Nathan. News of Adenaija's bid for the 241 00:13:47,600 --> 00:13:51,120 Speaker 2: throne reached the ears of Nathan the prophet. He leaned 242 00:13:51,120 --> 00:13:54,400 Speaker 2: on his cane and sighed deeply. This is not good, 243 00:13:54,880 --> 00:13:58,320 Speaker 2: he whispered. The old prophet put on his cloak and 244 00:13:58,400 --> 00:14:01,280 Speaker 2: made his way to the home of Bethheah, David's wife. 245 00:14:02,160 --> 00:14:06,000 Speaker 2: Even in her advancing years, Bathsheba was a vision to behold. 246 00:14:06,600 --> 00:14:09,840 Speaker 2: Since the tragedy of Uriah and the birth of her son, Solomon, 247 00:14:10,320 --> 00:14:12,920 Speaker 2: she had regained a sense of self assurance and strength. 248 00:14:13,800 --> 00:14:16,600 Speaker 2: David trusted her more than his other wives, and she 249 00:14:16,840 --> 00:14:19,400 Speaker 2: was an influential voice in the decisions of the nation. 250 00:14:20,160 --> 00:14:24,240 Speaker 2: Nathan entered her home, bowing his head in honor your grace. 251 00:14:24,880 --> 00:14:28,520 Speaker 2: I have come with urgent news, he said solemnly. 252 00:14:29,520 --> 00:14:31,880 Speaker 3: Dear Nathan, please sit and speak. 253 00:14:32,280 --> 00:14:36,560 Speaker 2: Bathsheba gestured for Nathan to sit. The prophet groaned as 254 00:14:36,560 --> 00:14:40,000 Speaker 2: he sat and sighed. He was a weary man. After 255 00:14:40,120 --> 00:14:42,880 Speaker 2: years of advising David, he had thought his work had 256 00:14:42,880 --> 00:14:45,960 Speaker 2: come to an end. Yet here he was once again 257 00:14:46,480 --> 00:14:48,360 Speaker 2: entangled in the drama of David's life. 258 00:14:49,080 --> 00:14:54,560 Speaker 4: Have you heard that Ada Niger's establishing himself as king? 259 00:14:55,480 --> 00:14:59,000 Speaker 2: Bathsheba's brow furrowed, her jaw clenched as she spoke. 260 00:14:59,640 --> 00:15:00,920 Speaker 3: Was this David's doing? 261 00:15:01,400 --> 00:15:01,960 Speaker 2: She asked? 262 00:15:02,880 --> 00:15:06,320 Speaker 4: No, the King does not seem to be aware this 263 00:15:06,360 --> 00:15:11,120 Speaker 4: has happening. You and I were both in attendant when 264 00:15:11,200 --> 00:15:16,440 Speaker 4: David promised the throne to Solomon. However, it seems that 265 00:15:16,520 --> 00:15:22,160 Speaker 4: Ada Niga has garnered the favor of Joab and Abiathar 266 00:15:22,320 --> 00:15:27,040 Speaker 4: the priests. If this is true, it is only a 267 00:15:27,080 --> 00:15:31,800 Speaker 4: matter of time before he comes for you and Solomon 268 00:15:32,400 --> 00:15:35,640 Speaker 4: to take you out. The prophet leaned over and said, 269 00:15:36,320 --> 00:15:40,480 Speaker 4: you must go to the king and confirm that Solomon 270 00:15:40,760 --> 00:15:46,000 Speaker 4: is indeed his choice. Bathsheba nodded, her hands trembled in fear. 271 00:15:46,680 --> 00:15:49,640 Speaker 4: If ade Nija possessed even half the ambition as Absalom 272 00:15:49,680 --> 00:15:53,840 Speaker 4: once did, her and Solomon were in grave danger. Nathan, 273 00:15:54,120 --> 00:15:57,800 Speaker 4: sensing her feelings, took her hand gently. I will come 274 00:15:57,840 --> 00:16:02,760 Speaker 4: with you when you have to the King. I will 275 00:16:02,920 --> 00:16:10,880 Speaker 4: enter as well and confirm your position. Fear not, dear Bathsheba. 276 00:16:11,160 --> 00:16:14,560 Speaker 4: The Lord will take care of you and your son. 277 00:16:17,200 --> 00:16:20,880 Speaker 2: Solomon leaned against the stone wall, perusing scrolls ridden by 278 00:16:20,880 --> 00:16:24,120 Speaker 2: the thinkers of old. He was entranced by the hidden 279 00:16:24,120 --> 00:16:28,200 Speaker 2: knowledge captured in words. Beside him were the scrolls of Moses. 280 00:16:28,960 --> 00:16:31,640 Speaker 2: He had been reading all morning, losing track of time. 281 00:16:32,480 --> 00:16:34,840 Speaker 2: As he was lost in thought, he heard a small 282 00:16:34,880 --> 00:16:38,920 Speaker 2: thump in the other room. Solomon looked up and saw Abshak, 283 00:16:39,200 --> 00:16:41,960 Speaker 2: the schumt woman, passing through with a cup of broth 284 00:16:42,040 --> 00:16:45,280 Speaker 2: with the king She was as radiant as ever and 285 00:16:45,360 --> 00:16:51,880 Speaker 2: captured Solomon's complete attention. Abishack, Solomon said gently. The servant 286 00:16:51,880 --> 00:16:54,560 Speaker 2: of the king smiled when she saw Solomon. He was 287 00:16:54,600 --> 00:16:57,800 Speaker 2: taller than his brothers, with a leaner face and shorter beard. 288 00:16:58,480 --> 00:17:00,960 Speaker 2: Although Solomon did not possess the same good looks as 289 00:17:01,000 --> 00:17:03,760 Speaker 2: his brother at a Nijah, he had kind and wise 290 00:17:03,800 --> 00:17:07,880 Speaker 2: eyes that made Abishag curious. She blushed when she saw 291 00:17:07,960 --> 00:17:09,720 Speaker 2: him and greeted him with a small bough. 292 00:17:11,040 --> 00:17:11,880 Speaker 3: Hello, Solomon. 293 00:17:13,000 --> 00:17:15,080 Speaker 2: The two lingered in the same room for a moment, 294 00:17:15,480 --> 00:17:19,159 Speaker 2: enjoying a brief moment together. They both broke the silence 295 00:17:19,200 --> 00:17:24,120 Speaker 2: with laughter, and Abishag bowed again, saying, I. 296 00:17:24,240 --> 00:17:27,199 Speaker 3: Must return to your father. It was nice seeing you. 297 00:17:28,000 --> 00:17:31,240 Speaker 2: Solomon waved goodbye and watched her leave the room. He 298 00:17:31,320 --> 00:17:33,520 Speaker 2: leaned his head against the stone wall and smiled. 299 00:17:34,600 --> 00:17:38,960 Speaker 6: Behold you are beautiful, my love. Behold you are beautiful. 300 00:17:39,119 --> 00:17:41,040 Speaker 6: Your eyes are doves. 301 00:17:40,920 --> 00:17:45,280 Speaker 2: He whispered. Solomon put down the scrolls and picked up 302 00:17:45,320 --> 00:17:48,560 Speaker 2: a pen and parchment, writing poems about the love welling 303 00:17:48,640 --> 00:17:52,520 Speaker 2: up within him. Abishag walked up the stairs leading into 304 00:17:52,560 --> 00:17:56,080 Speaker 2: David's bedroom. She opened the door quietly, not wanting to 305 00:17:56,119 --> 00:18:00,000 Speaker 2: wake the king. However, he was already up, gazing long 306 00:18:00,280 --> 00:18:03,440 Speaker 2: out the window. The king turned to her and smiled 307 00:18:03,960 --> 00:18:06,760 Speaker 2: thing graciously took the cup of broth in his hands. 308 00:18:07,600 --> 00:18:09,840 Speaker 2: Before he could take a moment to sip, the door 309 00:18:09,920 --> 00:18:14,240 Speaker 2: opened again. This time it was Bathsheba. David smiled and 310 00:18:14,320 --> 00:18:18,320 Speaker 2: gestured for her to come forward, My bride, he said, softly, 311 00:18:19,040 --> 00:18:22,639 Speaker 2: how can I serve you to day? Bathsheba was distraught 312 00:18:22,720 --> 00:18:25,760 Speaker 2: and unsure how to begin. She bowed at the side 313 00:18:25,800 --> 00:18:28,680 Speaker 2: of his bed and kissed his hand. It was difficult 314 00:18:28,680 --> 00:18:30,800 Speaker 2: for her to see the king in such a frail state. 315 00:18:31,520 --> 00:18:34,960 Speaker 2: She remembered how strong his arms used to be. They 316 00:18:34,960 --> 00:18:37,480 Speaker 2: were the arms of a warrior, and she melted in 317 00:18:37,560 --> 00:18:41,439 Speaker 2: his presence. However, his age had stolen his strength, and 318 00:18:41,520 --> 00:18:43,199 Speaker 2: Bathsheba dealt with him gently. 319 00:18:43,680 --> 00:18:45,680 Speaker 3: I have come to ask about your will, my lord, 320 00:18:46,080 --> 00:18:49,480 Speaker 3: she said. You swore to me before God that Solomon 321 00:18:49,520 --> 00:18:53,199 Speaker 3: would rein after you and sit on your throne. Now 322 00:18:53,359 --> 00:18:56,200 Speaker 3: I hear word that Atanasia has made himself king. 323 00:18:56,680 --> 00:18:59,719 Speaker 2: What do you mean, David asked, I did not know 324 00:18:59,760 --> 00:19:03,000 Speaker 2: any of this. The king stirred in his bed and 325 00:19:03,119 --> 00:19:07,480 Speaker 2: tried to prop himself up, but fail Ah Bathsheba wiped 326 00:19:07,520 --> 00:19:09,840 Speaker 2: tears from her eyes and said, he. 327 00:19:09,800 --> 00:19:13,720 Speaker 3: Has gone up to sacrifice to the Lord. Your sons 328 00:19:13,800 --> 00:19:18,200 Speaker 3: have gone with him, as have Joab and Abiathur. My lord, 329 00:19:18,600 --> 00:19:23,240 Speaker 3: King David, the eyes of Israel are on you. Tell 330 00:19:23,280 --> 00:19:26,560 Speaker 3: them who shall sit on the throne after you. If 331 00:19:26,600 --> 00:19:29,760 Speaker 3: you do not act soon, and you die without declaring 332 00:19:29,800 --> 00:19:32,320 Speaker 3: an air, you doom Solomon and I. 333 00:19:33,400 --> 00:19:37,119 Speaker 2: As Bathsheba said these things, Nathan entered the room. He 334 00:19:37,200 --> 00:19:38,880 Speaker 2: bowed to the king and said. 335 00:19:39,200 --> 00:19:43,720 Speaker 4: My lord, did I miss the message you sent about 336 00:19:43,800 --> 00:19:49,679 Speaker 4: Adanija being king? The last time we spoke, Solomon was 337 00:19:49,760 --> 00:19:55,680 Speaker 4: to be your heir. Now Adonijah has made a spectacle 338 00:19:56,040 --> 00:19:58,840 Speaker 4: then host to defeast in honor of his. 339 00:19:59,200 --> 00:20:02,359 Speaker 2: David rose ha hand and interrupted Nathan. He looked at 340 00:20:02,359 --> 00:20:04,240 Speaker 2: Bathsheba and said, my. 341 00:20:04,359 --> 00:20:09,160 Speaker 4: Bones may be brittle, that my word remains firm as 342 00:20:09,200 --> 00:20:12,560 Speaker 4: the Lord lives, who has saved my soul from the 343 00:20:12,600 --> 00:20:18,600 Speaker 4: clutches of every adversary. Solomon will reign after me. He 344 00:20:18,760 --> 00:20:22,560 Speaker 4: shall rule in my place and be the steward over 345 00:20:22,640 --> 00:20:27,480 Speaker 4: God's people. And when my body rests deepen the ground, 346 00:20:28,160 --> 00:20:32,280 Speaker 4: your son will listen to the throne. Bathsheba looked at 347 00:20:32,280 --> 00:20:36,119 Speaker 4: the king with tender admiration. His eyes were resolute and 348 00:20:36,240 --> 00:20:39,879 Speaker 4: filled with strength. In that moment she caught a glimpse 349 00:20:39,880 --> 00:20:43,320 Speaker 4: of his noble and heroic heart. She took his hand 350 00:20:43,359 --> 00:20:44,760 Speaker 4: in hers and bowed beside him. 351 00:20:45,440 --> 00:20:47,240 Speaker 3: May you live forever, she. 352 00:20:47,240 --> 00:20:54,360 Speaker 2: Said, admiringly, through our son I shall. David replied gently, 353 00:20:54,400 --> 00:20:57,119 Speaker 2: placing a hand on her cheek. He looked to his servant, 354 00:20:57,119 --> 00:20:59,200 Speaker 2: who was standing at the door, and said. 355 00:20:59,359 --> 00:21:03,160 Speaker 4: Called Zadok the priest, and Benigh, my captain. 356 00:21:03,800 --> 00:21:06,879 Speaker 2: The servant did not delay. The two men were brought 357 00:21:06,920 --> 00:21:10,399 Speaker 2: before the king. David rose from his bed with the 358 00:21:10,400 --> 00:21:13,399 Speaker 2: help of Abershak. He stood up straight and looked them 359 00:21:13,400 --> 00:21:14,680 Speaker 2: in the eye, saying. 360 00:21:14,920 --> 00:21:18,720 Speaker 4: Guiy them my entire household and the remaining mighty men. 361 00:21:19,440 --> 00:21:23,160 Speaker 4: Take my horse and have Solomon sit on top of it, 362 00:21:23,920 --> 00:21:27,879 Speaker 4: ride him throughout the city, and sound the trumpets with 363 00:21:28,080 --> 00:21:32,920 Speaker 4: loud voices. Have all the servants shout long Live King Solomon. 364 00:21:33,640 --> 00:21:35,840 Speaker 2: David leaned against the side of his bed and held 365 00:21:35,840 --> 00:21:39,040 Speaker 2: his ribs. He composed himself again and said. 366 00:21:40,040 --> 00:21:45,280 Speaker 4: Zaduk, anoint Solomon his king, just as I was anointed 367 00:21:45,320 --> 00:21:51,000 Speaker 4: by Samuel. After you have anointed him, place him on 368 00:21:51,240 --> 00:21:56,280 Speaker 4: my throat, for I hereby relinquish the title of king 369 00:21:57,400 --> 00:22:02,879 Speaker 4: and give it to my son Solomon. He shall reign 370 00:22:03,359 --> 00:22:06,239 Speaker 4: over Israel and Judah. 371 00:22:06,600 --> 00:22:09,040 Speaker 2: Beniah beamed with pride and saluted the king. 372 00:22:10,320 --> 00:22:14,320 Speaker 6: Amen, he declared, May the Lord agree with your words, 373 00:22:14,560 --> 00:22:16,639 Speaker 6: as he has been faithful to you, May he be 374 00:22:16,880 --> 00:22:18,560 Speaker 6: even more with King Solomon. 375 00:22:18,800 --> 00:22:20,960 Speaker 2: Beniah approached David and knelt at his feet. 376 00:22:21,280 --> 00:22:24,919 Speaker 6: Thank you for your faithfulness as a king, a brother, 377 00:22:25,400 --> 00:22:26,080 Speaker 6: and a friend. 378 00:22:26,840 --> 00:22:29,639 Speaker 2: He stood up and kissed David on the cheek. The 379 00:22:29,640 --> 00:22:32,879 Speaker 2: two embraced his brothers, and Beniah went to retrieve the 380 00:22:32,920 --> 00:22:37,719 Speaker 2: next king of Israel. It was early in the morning 381 00:22:37,880 --> 00:22:40,760 Speaker 2: and Solomon was overlooking the hill country of Jerusalem from 382 00:22:40,760 --> 00:22:43,440 Speaker 2: the balcony of his home. He was a young man, 383 00:22:43,960 --> 00:22:47,080 Speaker 2: just barely twenty years old, yet within him was an 384 00:22:47,080 --> 00:22:50,359 Speaker 2: old and contemplative soul. He would often stare out of 385 00:22:50,440 --> 00:22:53,560 Speaker 2: the horizon and think about the meaning of life. His 386 00:22:53,640 --> 00:22:58,280 Speaker 2: thoughts on existence, suffering, joy, and prosperity were continually on 387 00:22:58,359 --> 00:23:01,040 Speaker 2: his mind. He brought us wad ideas to the Lord 388 00:23:01,200 --> 00:23:04,480 Speaker 2: and weighed them against his law. He thirsted for knowledge 389 00:23:04,480 --> 00:23:07,200 Speaker 2: as some would thirst for glory and power, and he 390 00:23:07,280 --> 00:23:09,600 Speaker 2: knew that God alone was the source of all truth. 391 00:23:10,520 --> 00:23:12,760 Speaker 2: As the sun peeked over the valley and the birds 392 00:23:12,800 --> 00:23:16,679 Speaker 2: began their morning song. Solomon enjoyed this silent and meditated 393 00:23:16,680 --> 00:23:19,919 Speaker 2: practice of prayer. The young prince closed his eyes and 394 00:23:20,000 --> 00:23:22,840 Speaker 2: breathed in the crisp morning air, then descended down the 395 00:23:22,840 --> 00:23:26,160 Speaker 2: stairs into the garden. As he walked the pathway leading 396 00:23:26,160 --> 00:23:29,160 Speaker 2: to the city, he was stopped by Benaia and Zaduk, 397 00:23:29,240 --> 00:23:32,000 Speaker 2: the priest. Solomon smiled and waved. 398 00:23:32,480 --> 00:23:35,240 Speaker 6: Hello, my friends, how might I be of service to you? 399 00:23:36,000 --> 00:23:39,480 Speaker 2: The two of them said nothing. Instead, they approached Solomon 400 00:23:39,520 --> 00:23:42,639 Speaker 2: with looks of reverence and bowed at his feet. Entering 401 00:23:42,640 --> 00:23:45,000 Speaker 2: the gates of Solomon's home were all the servants of 402 00:23:45,080 --> 00:23:49,720 Speaker 2: King David, the mighty men, the Cherathites and Pelethites, all 403 00:23:49,760 --> 00:23:52,920 Speaker 2: gathered and bowed at his feet. Beniah lifted his head and. 404 00:23:52,920 --> 00:23:56,280 Speaker 6: Declared, long Live King Solomon. 405 00:23:56,920 --> 00:24:00,399 Speaker 2: Solomon looked out at the sea of faces, them joining 406 00:24:00,440 --> 00:24:01,640 Speaker 2: in one voice. 407 00:24:01,320 --> 00:24:09,440 Speaker 3: Singing, Long Live King Solomon, Long Live King Solomon, Long 408 00:24:09,720 --> 00:24:10,840 Speaker 3: King Solomon. 409 00:24:11,400 --> 00:24:14,359 Speaker 2: The choir masters of the congregation were in attendance, and 410 00:24:14,520 --> 00:24:17,960 Speaker 2: music was lifted into the heavens. They mounted Solomon onto 411 00:24:18,040 --> 00:24:20,920 Speaker 2: David's horse and rode him through the city. The earth 412 00:24:20,920 --> 00:24:24,240 Speaker 2: shook from the thousands of voices declaring his name. The 413 00:24:24,280 --> 00:24:26,600 Speaker 2: sun made its way over the valley and was now 414 00:24:26,600 --> 00:24:30,920 Speaker 2: emerging over the walls of Jerusalem. Its rays jone directly 415 00:24:30,960 --> 00:24:38,360 Speaker 2: onto Solomon, signaling a new era in Israel. Meanwhile, at 416 00:24:38,400 --> 00:24:41,280 Speaker 2: the Serpent Stone had the Nijah lay on his back, 417 00:24:41,359 --> 00:24:45,240 Speaker 2: asleep with his belly full of food. The party lasted 418 00:24:45,280 --> 00:24:47,840 Speaker 2: for days, and the rich young men of Israel had 419 00:24:47,840 --> 00:24:51,560 Speaker 2: their bellies filled with wine. Each person in attendance was 420 00:24:51,640 --> 00:24:56,479 Speaker 2: fast asleep, recovering from several nights of drunken festivities. However, 421 00:24:56,520 --> 00:24:59,639 Speaker 2: all of them awoke to the same noise. Trumpets and 422 00:24:59,720 --> 00:25:03,560 Speaker 2: cheers cracked the skies like thunder, and ad Nija startled awake. 423 00:25:04,000 --> 00:25:06,600 Speaker 2: He stood up and rubbed his eyes. He walked out 424 00:25:06,600 --> 00:25:07,720 Speaker 2: of his tent and looked out. 425 00:25:08,040 --> 00:25:10,800 Speaker 5: What has caused such an uproar in the city, he asked. 426 00:25:11,560 --> 00:25:13,800 Speaker 2: Joe Amp was already awake and looking down to the 427 00:25:13,800 --> 00:25:18,119 Speaker 2: city as well, he wondered the same thing. Jonathan, the 428 00:25:18,119 --> 00:25:20,960 Speaker 2: son of Abiathar, ran up the mountain to greet them. 429 00:25:21,440 --> 00:25:24,359 Speaker 5: Jonathan, Adanaija, yell, have you come from the city? 430 00:25:24,880 --> 00:25:27,640 Speaker 2: I have, my lord, he replied, solemnly. 431 00:25:27,480 --> 00:25:30,119 Speaker 5: What news do you have? Why are people cheering? 432 00:25:30,520 --> 00:25:32,800 Speaker 2: The man who is to replace David has been chosen, 433 00:25:33,080 --> 00:25:34,120 Speaker 2: Jonathan said. 434 00:25:34,240 --> 00:25:36,040 Speaker 5: Solomon now sits on the throne. 435 00:25:36,400 --> 00:25:38,800 Speaker 2: When the rest of Adam Nyga's guests heard what Jonathan 436 00:25:38,840 --> 00:25:42,560 Speaker 2: had said, they quickly gathered their things and fled. They 437 00:25:42,600 --> 00:25:45,200 Speaker 2: trembled in fear of being caught in a conspiracy against 438 00:25:45,240 --> 00:25:49,560 Speaker 2: the king. Adamanaig's heart began to beat quickly. He realized 439 00:25:49,600 --> 00:25:51,800 Speaker 2: now that he had made a grave mistake assuming his 440 00:25:51,880 --> 00:25:53,199 Speaker 2: place as heir to the throne. 441 00:25:54,359 --> 00:25:57,400 Speaker 5: He will surely kill me, he whispered. I must speak 442 00:25:57,440 --> 00:25:58,479 Speaker 5: with him and beg for mercy. 443 00:25:58,960 --> 00:26:01,240 Speaker 2: He grabbed Jonathan by the robe frantically and. 444 00:26:01,200 --> 00:26:03,840 Speaker 5: Said, go and tell the king. I need to speak 445 00:26:03,880 --> 00:26:06,920 Speaker 5: with him. Tell him to not put me to death. 446 00:26:08,560 --> 00:26:12,520 Speaker 2: King Solomon stood alone in the throne room. Tapestries telling 447 00:26:12,520 --> 00:26:15,560 Speaker 2: stories of David's life laced the walls. In the middle 448 00:26:15,600 --> 00:26:18,040 Speaker 2: of the room was an iron pit. In it, a 449 00:26:18,160 --> 00:26:22,119 Speaker 2: fire burned. Solomon stood over it, allowing himself to be 450 00:26:22,280 --> 00:26:25,520 Speaker 2: entranced by the flames. He held the crown in his hand. 451 00:26:26,080 --> 00:26:29,080 Speaker 2: The flickering light from the flames bounced off the golden crown. 452 00:26:29,880 --> 00:26:32,879 Speaker 2: He ran his fingers over the engravings, admiring the fine 453 00:26:32,920 --> 00:26:36,760 Speaker 2: detail and handiwork. The crown seemed heavy in his hands. 454 00:26:37,400 --> 00:26:40,240 Speaker 2: He looked up at the throne and stepped forward. When 455 00:26:40,240 --> 00:26:42,879 Speaker 2: he was a child, the throne of his father always 456 00:26:42,880 --> 00:26:47,160 Speaker 2: seemed so large and terrifying. Now it seemed larger than ever. 457 00:26:47,960 --> 00:26:50,960 Speaker 2: He took another hesitant step toward the throne and paused again. 458 00:26:51,840 --> 00:26:53,080 Speaker 6: Am I worthy of this? 459 00:26:53,680 --> 00:26:57,879 Speaker 2: He whispered. A voice from behind broke the silence. My 460 00:26:58,080 --> 00:27:02,919 Speaker 2: King Solomon turned around. It was Beniah. He bowed and said. 461 00:27:03,160 --> 00:27:07,120 Speaker 6: Forgive my intrusion, but your brother Adeenaijah has sent word 462 00:27:07,200 --> 00:27:10,560 Speaker 6: begging for your mercy. He requests you allow him to 463 00:27:10,680 --> 00:27:14,040 Speaker 6: live despite his pursuit of the throne. 464 00:27:14,359 --> 00:27:17,520 Speaker 2: What do you say? This was Solomon's first decision as king. 465 00:27:18,160 --> 00:27:20,520 Speaker 2: He looked down at his father's crown and back up 466 00:27:20,520 --> 00:27:21,440 Speaker 2: at his father's throne. 467 00:27:21,960 --> 00:27:23,680 Speaker 6: David would show mercy. 468 00:27:23,960 --> 00:27:27,440 Speaker 2: He thought to himself. Solomon placed the crown on his head. 469 00:27:28,080 --> 00:27:30,960 Speaker 6: If he shows himself a worthy man, not one hair 470 00:27:31,040 --> 00:27:34,840 Speaker 6: on his head shall be touched. However, if wickedness is 471 00:27:34,880 --> 00:27:37,080 Speaker 6: found in him, he shall be punished. 472 00:27:37,359 --> 00:27:41,240 Speaker 2: Beniyah bowed and began to leave. However, he stopped, then 473 00:27:41,280 --> 00:27:42,480 Speaker 2: turned around to Solomon. 474 00:27:43,240 --> 00:27:47,400 Speaker 6: I actually had another message for you, King Solomon. Banya said, 475 00:27:48,080 --> 00:27:53,440 Speaker 6: David requires your presence in his chambers. Solomon nodded, thank you, Bania, 476 00:27:54,040 --> 00:27:55,040 Speaker 6: I shall go at once. 477 00:27:56,800 --> 00:28:00,080 Speaker 2: The young king slowly creaked open the chamber doors. A 478 00:28:00,160 --> 00:28:02,840 Speaker 2: rush of warm air blew against his face as he entered. 479 00:28:03,720 --> 00:28:06,399 Speaker 2: The room was dry and smelled of spikenard and cedar. 480 00:28:07,240 --> 00:28:10,080 Speaker 2: The fire continued to burn in the fireplace, painting the 481 00:28:10,160 --> 00:28:13,600 Speaker 2: room with flickering light. His father lay in the bed, 482 00:28:13,800 --> 00:28:17,399 Speaker 2: with abish acts standing beside him. She gave Solomon a 483 00:28:17,400 --> 00:28:21,000 Speaker 2: gentle smile and waved. She kissed David's cheek and left 484 00:28:21,000 --> 00:28:25,399 Speaker 2: his side, touching Solomon's arm before leaving. Now it was 485 00:28:25,440 --> 00:28:28,640 Speaker 2: only he and David in the room, the glorious King 486 00:28:28,720 --> 00:28:32,200 Speaker 2: David and his heir, King Solomon. He stood beside his 487 00:28:32,200 --> 00:28:35,240 Speaker 2: father and reached out to hold his hand. David looked 488 00:28:35,320 --> 00:28:39,120 Speaker 2: up and smiled. His breathing was labored and his eyes 489 00:28:39,160 --> 00:28:44,320 Speaker 2: were weary. I am about to go the way of 490 00:28:44,480 --> 00:28:49,120 Speaker 2: all the earth, David whispered. Solomon felt tears about to break, 491 00:28:49,400 --> 00:28:51,600 Speaker 2: but he held them back to listen to his father speak. 492 00:28:51,600 --> 00:28:57,040 Speaker 2: His final words, be strong, my son, David said, squeezing 493 00:28:57,080 --> 00:29:02,760 Speaker 2: his hand. Show yourself a man, and keep the charge 494 00:29:03,200 --> 00:29:08,840 Speaker 2: of the Lord your God. Walk in his ways and 495 00:29:09,000 --> 00:29:15,960 Speaker 2: keep his commandments. God your heart with his rules, his testimonies, 496 00:29:16,760 --> 00:29:21,960 Speaker 2: and the law of Moses. If you keep his word close, 497 00:29:22,760 --> 00:29:29,680 Speaker 2: all that you do will prosper wherever you go, and 498 00:29:29,760 --> 00:29:35,560 Speaker 2: whatever you do, God will bless you. David turned his 499 00:29:35,640 --> 00:29:37,920 Speaker 2: gaze to his window and side. 500 00:29:38,200 --> 00:29:39,960 Speaker 6: Ah. 501 00:29:40,520 --> 00:29:45,160 Speaker 4: For all my triumph in life, I have also had failure. 502 00:29:46,440 --> 00:29:53,120 Speaker 4: Yet God remained faithful to me. He promised me that 503 00:29:53,200 --> 00:29:58,200 Speaker 4: if my sons paid close attention to his ways and 504 00:29:58,320 --> 00:30:04,920 Speaker 4: walked before him in faithfulness with all their hearts and souls, 505 00:30:06,000 --> 00:30:07,160 Speaker 4: they would lack nothing. 506 00:30:08,360 --> 00:30:10,920 Speaker 2: He beckoned for Solomon to lean down next to him. 507 00:30:11,320 --> 00:30:14,400 Speaker 2: Solomon knelt down beside his father. He laid a hand 508 00:30:14,400 --> 00:30:17,600 Speaker 2: on his son and said a prayer. Then he kissed 509 00:30:17,680 --> 00:30:22,040 Speaker 2: him on the forehead. Keep the call in the flame, 510 00:30:22,640 --> 00:30:25,880 Speaker 2: he said, with a smile. David then pulled out a 511 00:30:25,920 --> 00:30:29,000 Speaker 2: scroll and placed it in Solomon's hand. He patted him 512 00:30:29,000 --> 00:30:32,040 Speaker 2: on the hand and let go. I am tired, he said, 513 00:30:33,800 --> 00:30:39,280 Speaker 2: I think I shall rest now. David closed his eyes 514 00:30:39,640 --> 00:30:43,480 Speaker 2: and fell asleep. Solomon leaned over and kissed his father 515 00:30:43,560 --> 00:30:46,400 Speaker 2: on the forehead, stroking his hair. As he watched him 516 00:30:46,440 --> 00:30:49,840 Speaker 2: fall deeper and deeper into sleep. He knew in his 517 00:30:49,920 --> 00:30:56,240 Speaker 2: heart that David would not wake. Solomon walked down the 518 00:30:56,240 --> 00:30:59,160 Speaker 2: stairs with the scroll in his hand. He walked into 519 00:30:59,200 --> 00:31:02,400 Speaker 2: the library and said at the desk. He held the 520 00:31:02,440 --> 00:31:05,840 Speaker 2: candle close to the scroll and unraveled it. It was 521 00:31:05,920 --> 00:31:12,040 Speaker 2: David's handwriting in the scroll was the final Psalm, the 522 00:31:12,160 --> 00:31:16,479 Speaker 2: last words of David, the son of Jesse, the oracle 523 00:31:16,520 --> 00:31:18,920 Speaker 2: of a man raised on high and anointed by the 524 00:31:18,960 --> 00:31:24,840 Speaker 2: God of Jacob, the sweet Psalmist of Israel. Solomon smiled 525 00:31:25,440 --> 00:31:28,480 Speaker 2: and ran his fingers over the words and read. 526 00:31:28,880 --> 00:31:32,000 Speaker 6: The Spirit of the Lord speaks to me. His word 527 00:31:32,120 --> 00:31:35,600 Speaker 6: is on my lips. The God and Rock of Israel 528 00:31:35,680 --> 00:31:39,840 Speaker 6: has spoken, saying, when one rules with justice and fear 529 00:31:39,880 --> 00:31:42,880 Speaker 6: of God, he dawns on the people like the morning light, 530 00:31:43,400 --> 00:31:46,560 Speaker 6: like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like 531 00:31:46,720 --> 00:31:50,000 Speaker 6: rain that makes grass sprout on the earth. For my 532 00:31:50,160 --> 00:31:54,600 Speaker 6: house stands with God. He has made me an everlasting 533 00:31:54,640 --> 00:31:59,120 Speaker 6: covenant that is secure and trustworthy. Worthless men are like 534 00:31:59,240 --> 00:32:02,640 Speaker 6: thorns that are thrown away, for they cannot be taken 535 00:32:02,680 --> 00:32:06,120 Speaker 6: with the hand. Do not touch them, and keep your distance. 536 00:32:06,920 --> 00:32:09,680 Speaker 6: For all a wicked man is good for is to 537 00:32:09,720 --> 00:32:11,960 Speaker 6: be consumed with fire. 538 00:32:13,360 --> 00:32:16,000 Speaker 2: Solomon leaned back in his chair and rolled up the scroll. 539 00:32:17,320 --> 00:32:19,200 Speaker 2: He tucked it in his cloak and kept it close. 540 00:32:20,080 --> 00:32:21,920 Speaker 2: He leaned over the desk and blue bok the canal. 541 00:32:23,520 --> 00:32:27,080 Speaker 2: That evening, David went to be with his forefathers. He 542 00:32:27,160 --> 00:32:30,480 Speaker 2: was buried in the city of Jerusalem, his shining achievement. 543 00:32:32,280 --> 00:32:34,480 Speaker 2: He never did get the chance to see Solomon build 544 00:32:34,480 --> 00:32:38,200 Speaker 2: the temple. However, one day he would witness something even 545 00:32:38,280 --> 00:32:43,120 Speaker 2: more glorious. He would witness the promised Messiah, a son 546 00:32:43,160 --> 00:32:47,160 Speaker 2: of David, would raise up a new Jerusalem and establish 547 00:32:47,200 --> 00:32:52,400 Speaker 2: the perfect will of God lasting into all attranny. One 548 00:32:52,480 --> 00:32:55,560 Speaker 2: day David would hear the trumpets of victory sound once 549 00:32:55,600 --> 00:32:59,000 Speaker 2: again and be welcomed home into the loving embrace of 550 00:32:59,040 --> 00:33:03,000 Speaker 2: his God. The man after God's own heart would be 551 00:33:03,080 --> 00:33:08,520 Speaker 2: close to the heart of God forevermore. God's chosen hero 552 00:33:08,600 --> 00:33:12,920 Speaker 2: and anointed King was a flawed and fractured image, ultimately 553 00:33:12,960 --> 00:33:16,560 Speaker 2: pointing to a greater hero and a greater king, one 554 00:33:16,600 --> 00:33:19,920 Speaker 2: who would be brave and never stumble, one who would 555 00:33:19,960 --> 00:33:23,360 Speaker 2: be tempted and never give in one who would feel 556 00:33:23,360 --> 00:33:26,440 Speaker 2: the sting of death, but rise again to conquer it. 557 00:33:27,600 --> 00:33:31,960 Speaker 2: This hero was the one David hoped for. From David's seed, 558 00:33:32,080 --> 00:33:35,280 Speaker 2: this hero would be born. However, he would not fight 559 00:33:35,360 --> 00:33:38,480 Speaker 2: with a sling before shepherd's staff, nor would he march 560 00:33:38,520 --> 00:33:42,000 Speaker 2: with a sword and shield. He would meet his enemy 561 00:33:42,360 --> 00:33:46,200 Speaker 2: bearing a cross on his shoulders and vanquish death once 562 00:33:46,480 --> 00:33:47,040 Speaker 2: and for all. 563 00:33:53,440 --> 00:33:57,000 Speaker 1: There you have it, the beautiful end to David's grand adventure. 564 00:33:57,560 --> 00:34:00,480 Speaker 1: The prelude took us back to the beginning, when Samuel 565 00:34:00,480 --> 00:34:03,280 Speaker 1: walked up the hill to the sound of music. What 566 00:34:03,400 --> 00:34:06,760 Speaker 1: a glorious life David lived after that moment. After he 567 00:34:06,840 --> 00:34:10,480 Speaker 1: was anointed as king, opportunities presented themselves at every corner, 568 00:34:11,000 --> 00:34:14,640 Speaker 1: Opportunities to deliver God's people, seek his character, and obey 569 00:34:14,680 --> 00:34:18,319 Speaker 1: his commands. Although David was not always perfect, he was 570 00:34:18,400 --> 00:34:21,920 Speaker 1: always pure. Even in his greatest failures, he returned to 571 00:34:22,000 --> 00:34:24,680 Speaker 1: the heart of God, like a deer returns to a 572 00:34:24,719 --> 00:34:27,799 Speaker 1: stream of water. Another salmist would go on to sing, 573 00:34:28,320 --> 00:34:31,680 Speaker 1: as a deer pants for flowing streams, So pants my 574 00:34:31,800 --> 00:34:35,160 Speaker 1: soul for you, O God, my soul thirst for God, 575 00:34:35,320 --> 00:34:39,360 Speaker 1: for the living God. David, from beginning to end thirsted 576 00:34:39,440 --> 00:34:42,680 Speaker 1: after the heart of God, and after his story is complete, 577 00:34:42,719 --> 00:34:45,560 Speaker 1: we are invited to do the same. I hope this 578 00:34:45,640 --> 00:34:49,239 Speaker 1: series inspired you to seek God just like David did, 579 00:34:49,640 --> 00:34:53,600 Speaker 1: honestly with a pure heart and a courageous spirit. This 580 00:34:53,680 --> 00:34:57,480 Speaker 1: episode brought back the flame. Its light was slowly fading away, 581 00:34:58,040 --> 00:35:02,040 Speaker 1: but David meticulously cared for it, even though there was 582 00:35:02,080 --> 00:35:04,920 Speaker 1: a brief time in his life when he ignored the coals. 583 00:35:05,000 --> 00:35:08,640 Speaker 1: At the very end, he kept them burning. Solomon stood 584 00:35:08,680 --> 00:35:12,040 Speaker 1: by the fire as well. He was curiously staring at it, 585 00:35:12,400 --> 00:35:14,759 Speaker 1: but we didn't get to see what he did with it. 586 00:35:15,400 --> 00:35:18,880 Speaker 1: This is a purposeful cliffhanger, for we don't know yet 587 00:35:18,920 --> 00:35:22,000 Speaker 1: what type of king Solomon will be. If you want 588 00:35:22,000 --> 00:35:24,440 Speaker 1: to see if he keeps the fire burning, then you 589 00:35:24,520 --> 00:35:28,239 Speaker 1: can read for yourself. His story, along with hundreds of others, 590 00:35:28,280 --> 00:35:31,520 Speaker 1: are available to you. Isn't that beautiful? The story of 591 00:35:31,560 --> 00:35:34,560 Speaker 1: God's heroes and chosen people are available to you and I. 592 00:35:35,280 --> 00:35:37,840 Speaker 1: We can learn from their victories and defeats, and we 593 00:35:37,880 --> 00:35:40,479 Speaker 1: can discover the heart of God. The Word of God 594 00:35:40,560 --> 00:35:43,760 Speaker 1: is available to us. Within it lie the rich truths 595 00:35:43,760 --> 00:35:46,120 Speaker 1: of what it means to be human. Wrestle with our 596 00:35:46,160 --> 00:35:50,759 Speaker 1: God and prevail over sin, shame and lies. Truth was 597 00:35:50,800 --> 00:35:53,640 Speaker 1: an important part of this episode. For the bulk of 598 00:35:53,680 --> 00:35:57,400 Speaker 1: the story, we are led to believe that Adonijah's lies 599 00:35:57,480 --> 00:36:00,600 Speaker 1: were going to prevail, but truth in the Inn and 600 00:36:00,719 --> 00:36:04,840 Speaker 1: Solomon became king at a Naijah's character was supposed to 601 00:36:04,880 --> 00:36:08,240 Speaker 1: tease us. He bore more resemblance to Saul than David, 602 00:36:08,600 --> 00:36:10,800 Speaker 1: and we were led to believe we might have another 603 00:36:11,040 --> 00:36:13,919 Speaker 1: gory mess on our hands. But that is no way 604 00:36:13,960 --> 00:36:17,319 Speaker 1: to end David's story. The crowning of Solomon was a 605 00:36:17,320 --> 00:36:20,440 Speaker 1: perfect final act for David, who needed to be reassured 606 00:36:20,800 --> 00:36:23,440 Speaker 1: that God's flock would be taken care of. He is 607 00:36:23,480 --> 00:36:26,720 Speaker 1: a shepherd, after all, and he would not be able 608 00:36:26,800 --> 00:36:30,440 Speaker 1: to depart unless he knew the sheep were okay. Before 609 00:36:30,440 --> 00:36:34,120 Speaker 1: we depart, I want to revisit an old theme, mercy. 610 00:36:34,719 --> 00:36:37,760 Speaker 1: At the end of the episode, Solomon shows at Nija 611 00:36:37,960 --> 00:36:40,760 Speaker 1: mercy because that is what his father would have done. 612 00:36:41,239 --> 00:36:43,960 Speaker 1: David was criticized by people close to him that he 613 00:36:44,320 --> 00:36:48,040 Speaker 1: always showed too much mercy. He showed too much mercy 614 00:36:48,080 --> 00:36:52,239 Speaker 1: to Saul, Abna, Michael, Joe ab and Absolom. But those 615 00:36:52,280 --> 00:36:55,239 Speaker 1: critics don't understand David as well as they think they do. 616 00:36:55,960 --> 00:36:58,960 Speaker 1: David showed mercy because he was a shepherd. He knew 617 00:36:59,000 --> 00:37:01,440 Speaker 1: that sheep tended to say stray away from the pasture. 618 00:37:01,840 --> 00:37:04,440 Speaker 1: When one sheep leaves the flock, most people would assume 619 00:37:04,480 --> 00:37:07,399 Speaker 1: it's fine to let the sheep leave, better to let 620 00:37:07,400 --> 00:37:09,760 Speaker 1: it die in the wilderness than to risk your own life. 621 00:37:10,200 --> 00:37:12,840 Speaker 1: But that is not how David saw the world. He 622 00:37:13,040 --> 00:37:15,600 Speaker 1: was a good shepherd and always left the flock to 623 00:37:15,640 --> 00:37:19,160 Speaker 1: pursue his lost sheep. David believed that nobody was too 624 00:37:19,200 --> 00:37:23,400 Speaker 1: far gone or beyond saving. He always believed that the 625 00:37:23,440 --> 00:37:26,520 Speaker 1: heart of God could prevail in the most wicked hearts. 626 00:37:26,960 --> 00:37:30,480 Speaker 1: He always showed mercy because a good shepherd never abandons 627 00:37:30,480 --> 00:37:34,160 Speaker 1: a sheep to the wilderness. He goes after them. God 628 00:37:34,239 --> 00:37:36,560 Speaker 1: is a good shepherd. He went after us when we 629 00:37:36,600 --> 00:37:39,480 Speaker 1: strayed from him. He pursued David when he strayed from 630 00:37:39,520 --> 00:37:42,360 Speaker 1: him as well. You see, David is not just a 631 00:37:42,400 --> 00:37:45,680 Speaker 1: picture of Jesus, He is a picture of us. David 632 00:37:45,719 --> 00:37:49,560 Speaker 1: failed missteps and got lost, but God always brought him back. 633 00:37:50,160 --> 00:37:53,160 Speaker 1: When we fail misstep and lose our way, we have 634 00:37:53,239 --> 00:37:56,200 Speaker 1: a good shepherd who will endure the wilderness and wolves 635 00:37:56,200 --> 00:37:59,240 Speaker 1: to find us again. You have a God who fights 636 00:37:59,280 --> 00:38:03,440 Speaker 1: for you and will never let you go. The final 637 00:38:03,480 --> 00:38:07,400 Speaker 1: words of David are another song. This beautiful hymn perfectly 638 00:38:07,400 --> 00:38:10,920 Speaker 1: summarizes the heart of our hero. He called God the 639 00:38:11,040 --> 00:38:14,160 Speaker 1: Rock of Israel and gave his final advice to anyone 640 00:38:14,200 --> 00:38:17,440 Speaker 1: who desires to rule. His words were for Solomon, but 641 00:38:17,560 --> 00:38:21,560 Speaker 1: also for us, So let's soak them in together. The 642 00:38:21,600 --> 00:38:24,400 Speaker 1: spirit of the Lord speaks to me. His word is 643 00:38:24,480 --> 00:38:28,400 Speaker 1: on my lips. The God and Rock of Israel has spoken, saying, 644 00:38:28,880 --> 00:38:31,839 Speaker 1: when one rules with justice and fear of God, he 645 00:38:31,960 --> 00:38:35,680 Speaker 1: dawns on the people like the morning light, like the 646 00:38:35,719 --> 00:38:39,759 Speaker 1: sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that 647 00:38:40,040 --> 00:38:43,719 Speaker 1: makes grass sprout on the earth. For my house stands 648 00:38:43,760 --> 00:38:48,160 Speaker 1: with God. He has made with me an everlasting covenant 649 00:38:48,200 --> 00:38:52,280 Speaker 1: that is secure and trustworthy. Worthless men are like thorns 650 00:38:52,520 --> 00:38:55,319 Speaker 1: that are thrown away, for they cannot be taken with 651 00:38:55,440 --> 00:38:58,480 Speaker 1: the hand. Do not touch them, and keep your distance, 652 00:38:59,000 --> 00:39:01,440 Speaker 1: For all a whiki man is good for is to 653 00:39:01,480 --> 00:39:04,440 Speaker 1: be consumed with fire. I wanted to thank you again 654 00:39:04,480 --> 00:39:07,279 Speaker 1: for embarking on this journey with me. My hope is 655 00:39:07,320 --> 00:39:10,000 Speaker 1: that the life of David stoked your love for Jesus, 656 00:39:10,080 --> 00:39:13,359 Speaker 1: our ultimate hero. But I also hope that David's life 657 00:39:13,400 --> 00:39:17,640 Speaker 1: inspired you to be brave, courageous, and merciful. I hope 658 00:39:17,640 --> 00:39:21,240 Speaker 1: that you drew inspiration from his life and found hope 659 00:39:21,239 --> 00:39:23,719 Speaker 1: that we can all be heroes in our own way. 660 00:39:24,320 --> 00:39:26,759 Speaker 1: If you ever find yourself in need of valor, I 661 00:39:26,840 --> 00:39:29,840 Speaker 1: pray these stories stir you to seek God. If you 662 00:39:29,880 --> 00:39:33,240 Speaker 1: find yourself in need of more inspiring stories, daily prayers, 663 00:39:33,560 --> 00:39:36,960 Speaker 1: and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to pray dot com. 664 00:39:37,360 --> 00:39:39,920 Speaker 1: Please leave a review and let us know how this 665 00:39:40,040 --> 00:39:43,560 Speaker 1: series impacted your life. Follow the podcast so you get 666 00:39:43,600 --> 00:39:47,359 Speaker 1: the newest release on the Story of Jesus coming out soon. 667 00:39:47,920 --> 00:39:50,200 Speaker 1: Thank you again and God bless you.