Monday: The Division of the Kingdom

BIG IDEA for the week:  No matter how sincere someone might be in "THEIR TRUTH", it should always be weighed against GOD'S TRUTH.

Scripture for the day:  1 Kings 11:11-13  

"So the LORD said to Solomon, 'Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates. Nevertheless, for the sake of David your father, I will not do it during your lifetime. I will tear it out of the hand of your son. Yet I will not tear the whole kingdom from him, but will give him one tribe for the sake of David my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem, which I have chosen.'"

Reflection:  

The division of Israel was a direct result of Solomon's disobedience. Despite the richness of his reign, Solomon took his eyes off God, giving himself over to personal desires of the flesh, desires of the eyes, and the pride of life. His heart turned away from God's truths in favor of his own. Division in the kingdom of Israel serves as a tangible consequence of forsaking God's path, reminding us of the potential fracture in our own lives when we prioritize "our truth" over God's truth.  It should cause us to wonder what part of our lives would fracture if we would value “our truth” above God’s truth.  

God gave Solomon specific instructions, and despite having wisdom, Solomon chose his path. He was sincere. But he was sincerely wrong. His sincerity in his pursuits didn't align with God's expectations. This serves as a lesson that sincerity in following our desires, if misaligned with God’s word, can lead to catastrophic outcomes. As we reflect on this passage, it's crucial to evaluate where we might be placing our desires above God’s plan.

The promise of a lasting dynasty was conditional upon obedience. God’s mercy allowed Judah and Benjamin to remain in David’s family. However, the full repercussions of division were inevitable because God’s truth demands justice. We must be cautious of the conditions and promises in God’s Word, ensuring we uphold our end of the covenant.

Action Step: Reflect on areas in your life where you might be choosing your desires over God's truths. Write them down and commit to seeking God's guidance in these areas.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to keep my eyes focused on You and Your truth. Guard my heart against the desires that lead me away from Your will. May I always seek Your wisdom above my understanding. Amen.

Song of the Day:Pat Barrett - Canvas and Clay (Radio Version) [Lyric Video]