1 kings 9:4 - As for you, if you will walk before me, as David your father walked, in integrity of heart, and in uprightness, to do according to all that I have commanded you, and will keep my statutes and my ordinances;

Generated Verse: 1 kings 9:4

What does "1 kings 9:4" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 9:4, is God speaking to Solomon after he has finished building the temple and his own palace. It's part of a conditional covenant God makes with Solomon, promising prosperity and a lasting kingdom, but only if Solomon remains faithful. Let's break down what each part means:

"As for you, if you will walk before me..." This sets up a condition. God is saying, "Solomon, if you do the following..." It's not a guarantee, but a promise based on Solomon's obedience. "Walk before me" is a common biblical phrase meaning to live one's life in God's presence, always mindful of His will and His judgment.

"...as David your father walked..." David is presented as a model of obedience. While David certainly wasn't perfect, he was known for his devotion to God, his humility, and his desire to follow God's commands. God is holding David up as the standard for Solomon to follow.

"...in integrity of heart, and in uprightness..." This defines how Solomon is to walk before God.
Integrity of heart: This means sincerity and wholeness in devotion. It's not just outward obedience, but a genuine, heartfelt commitment to God. It suggests a pure motive and a lack of hypocrisy.
Uprightness: This means moral righteousness and fairness. It encompasses honesty, justice, and ethical behavior in all aspects of life.

"...to do according to all that I have commanded you..." This emphasizes the importance of following God's specific instructions. It's not enough to just feel devoted; Solomon must actively obey God's laws and precepts.

"...and will keep my statutes and my ordinances..."
Statutes: These are specific laws or rules given by God.
Ordinances: These are established practices or customs that God has ordained, often relating to worship and religious observances. The combination of statutes and ordinances represents the totality of God's legal requirements.

In summary, the verse means:

God promises Solomon a stable and enduring kingdom, but only if Solomon:

Lives his life in God's presence and awareness.
Strives to emulate the devotion and humility of his father, David.
Possesses a sincere and wholehearted devotion to God.
Conducts himself with moral righteousness and integrity.
Obeys all of God's specific commands, statutes, and ordinances.

The verse is a reminder that blessings and promises from God are often conditional, depending on our faithfulness and obedience to His will. It also highlights the importance of living a life of integrity, not just outward conformity to rules. Finally, it points to the significance of having a genuine heart relationship with God, rather than merely going through the motions of religious practice.