Read 1 Kings 1
Highlights:
King David at death's door. Adonijah, Absalom's younger brother, organizes another revolt! But nothing thwarts the sovereign purpose of God. Look who stops the coup (I Kin. 1:11-53). David charges Solomon to walk with God (2:1-4).
It was a stunning blow to David when Adonijah, Solomon's older half-brother persuaded the two most influential men in Israel to join him and become traitors to David.
Abiathar, the high priest, through whom Adonijah would have religious approval, and the powerful Joab, commander-in-chief of David's army, cooperated with Adonijah in this ruthless conspiracy. This was similar to the situation with Absalom, who decided he should be king. Presuming that being the oldest living son of David gave him the right to the throne, Adonijah ruthlessy attempted to seize the throne by force. His inaugural feast was a notable day of celebration, climaxed by an intense shout: God save King Adonijah (I Kin. 1:25). How could he not succeed? But God was still Sovereign over Israel and retained the right of selecting the one to reign over His people (Deut. 17:14). Solomon had been designated by both Jehovah and David as successor to the throne as publicly announced.
Many of David's disappointments were a tragedy but, from the Lord's point of view, they were designed to expose the selfish motives in the hearts of his friends. They were also a clear revelation of the sovereign hand of God over practical concerns.
David's last words to Solomon revealed his greatest desire for his son — that he would live to please the Lord. David said nothing to Solomon about gaining material wealth or fame for his kingdom. Instead he stressed be . . . strong therefore, and shew thyself a man (stand firm against all pressure to compromise); And keep the charge (requirements) of the Lord thy God (I Kin. 2:2-4). Compromise may include active involvement in secular organizations that rob us of time that could be invested in Christ-centered service with the church and other ministries.
God gives us the same charge that was given to Solomon — to keep the Commandments of God so that we might please Him and be an example to our children as well as to others. David's concern was that Solomon prosper spiritually by living in harmony with the Word of God.
The truly blessed person is promised a fruitful life because his delight is in the Law of the Lord; and in His Law doth he meditate day and night. . . . and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper (Ps. 1:1-3).
Thought for Today:
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve (Matt. 4:10).
Christ Revealed:
By the oil used to anoint Solomon (I Kin. 1:39). Oil, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, was poured out upon those chosen for special service. Jesus is the Anointed One of God: God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good (Acts 10:38). The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor (needy) (Luke 4:18; see Is. 61:1).
Word Studies:
1:2 cherish be of service as his nurse; 1:6 not displeased never rebuked or corrected; 2:6 hoar head . . . peace die of old age in peace; 2:17 say thee nay refuse your request.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Country: Cote d'Ivoire (16 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and over 60 native dialects • Religious freedom • 40% animist; 25% Muslim; 10% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Go to God in prayer with boldness and seek His grace and mercy (Heb. 4:16).
Optional Reading: Acts 22
Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:11
