How can we ensure our actions reflect the values demonstrated in 1 Kings 2:7? Setting the Scene “ ‘But show kindness to the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be among those who eat at your table, because they stood by me when I fled from your brother Absalom.’ ” (1 Kings 2:7) David charged Solomon to honor Barzillai’s family for their loyal support. The verse models gratitude, covenant love, and practical generosity. Core Values on Display • Gratitude for past faithfulness • Loyal love extended beyond a single generation • Tangible generosity—sharing one’s own table • Remembrance of righteous deeds Practical Steps for Today 1. Keep a record of those who have blessed and supported you, then look for ways to bless them in return. 2. Commit to intergenerational kindness, treating children and grandchildren of faithful friends with the same warmth shown to their parents. 3. Integrate hospitality into daily life—meals, resources, time—so generosity becomes habitual rather than occasional. 4. Speak honorably, telling the stories of faithful friends in front of family and community to reinforce a culture of gratitude. 5. Act promptly while opportunities remain, avoiding delayed well-wishes that never materialize. Guardrails to Keep Us on Track • Regularly revisit Scripture’s call to loyal love (Proverbs 3:3-4; Micah 6:8). • Set aside part of the budget or schedule exclusively for serving others, turning intention into action. • Involve family members, teaching them the joy of covenant kindness through shared service projects or hosted meals. • Evaluate motives to ensure acts of kindness flow from genuine gratitude, not from a desire for repayment or recognition (Luke 6:35). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • 2 Samuel 19:31-39—Barzillai’s original generosity toward David • Proverbs 11:25—“A generous soul will prosper…” • Galatians 6:10—“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…” • Hebrews 13:1-2—“Continue in brotherly love. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” • Luke 6:38—“Give, and it will be given to you…” Personal Inventory Checklist □ This week I intentionally thanked someone who supported me in the past. □ I identified at least one tangible way to bless their family. □ I opened my home or shared a meal to practice hospitality. □ I spoke honorably about faithful friends in front of others. □ I aligned my budget and calendar to make generosity sustainable. Living out these steps allows the spirit of 1 Kings 2:7 to shape everyday decisions, ensuring actions that mirror loyal love, lasting gratitude, and open-handed generosity. |