1:20-21 Serve God in Later Years When David failed to announce his successor, he left a power vacuum. Adonijah, his oldest living son, was the natural successor (2:15), but not David’s (or God’s) choice. By not speaking up publicly, David allowed Adonijah the opportunity to take matters into his own hands, which ultimately resulted in suffering for David’s family. As we age, it is critical that we make our values and wishes known. We can still use our waning energies and resources to help future generations know and serve the Lord.