Day 78 – 1 Kings: Theme

“As for you, if you will follow me with integrity and godliness, as David your father did, obeying all my commands, decrees, and regulations, then I will establish the throne of your dynasty over Israel forever. For I made this promise to your father, David: ‘One of your descendants will always sit on the throne of Israel.’ 1 Kings 9:4-5 NLT

Solomon obeyed his father’s instructions and followed all God’s ways. When given a choice of gifts from the Lord, he humbly asked for wisdom. As a result, Solomon’s reign began with success, including the construction of God’s Temple. Unfortunately, Solomon had a weakness for women and took many pagan wives and concubines who eventually turned his heart away from the Lord following their false gods.

Rehoboam succeeded Solomon and had the opportunity to follow in wisdom and greatness to be a compassionate and god-fearing king. Instead, he listened to poor advice from his friends and attempted to rule with an iron fist, but the nation rebelled against him and the kingdom was once again split into two. Both kingdoms wove a path through the reigns of corrupt and idolatrous kings raising the clear voices of the prophets continuing to warn and call God’s beloved and chosen nation back to Him.

One of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament, Elijah, steps to the foreground in one of the most dramatic confrontations in history with wicked Ahab and Jezebel proving that when God is on our side, no one can stand against us. (Romans 8:13)

Prayer: Father, from 1 Kings we learn so much about Israel’s history and Your clear mercy and love for a nation who continually lusted after idols. Lord, thank You that through the prophets You’ve sent, we see Your continued pursuit of Your nation. Thank You, Lord, that in the same way, You relentlessly pursue us too. Amen.