Read: 1
Kings 1
David has ruled Israel for forty years, leading
them through war and rebellion. Under his rule, Israel moved from a group of semi-autonomous
tribes to a unified nation with a single king and capital city (Jerusalem).
David has modelled for his subjects how to live a life “after God’s own heart.”
Whenever he fell into sin, David repented, turning wholeheartedly back to a
relationship with God. Now, this beloved king is sick. He is nearing his last
days and the entire nation is holding its breath: what will happen next?
Adonijah, one of David’s sons, sees an opportunity
to act. He gathers chariots, horsemen and supporters in a daring act to set
himself up as the next king of Israel. They must act quickly and secretly.
Those loyal to David cannot know what is afoot or Adonijah’s plans will be
thwarted.
However, such events can never remain a secret.
Nathan, a prophet loyal to David, hears about the rebellion. He quickly
approaches Bathsheba to share the news. Adonijah must be stopped. Bathsheba’s
life is in danger, as it that of her son, Solomon. She flees to the sickly
David and presents her case. While Bathsheba is explaining the events to David,
Nathan enters and confirms her story. People are already saying “Love live King
Adonijah,” even though David has not bestowed this title. In his last official
act as king, David must stop the rebellion and install Solomon as the rightful
king.
While Adonijah is feasting with his followers, he
hears a commotion in the distance. Jonathon, son of Abiathar the priest, gives
the news to Adonijah. Solomon has been crowned king. As a symbol of authority
Solomon is already sitting on the royal throne. The dinner guests are
terrified. If they are caught supporting Adonijah, their lives may be at stake.
Their apparent loyalty is proven false as they flee, valuing their own safety
more than their support of Adonijah. Adonijah now has only one choice: fall
before Solomon and plead for forgiveness. Solomon wisely declares that
Adonijah’s judgment will be determined when his true worth is revealed.
Prayer and
Journaling
1. 1 Kings 1:6 tells us that David did not question
Adonijah’s actions leading up to the rebellion. While we cannot say for sure,
this verse hints that the rebellion could have been stopped pre-emptively if
David kept a closer watch over those in his responsibility. Ask God if there is
anyone in your sphere of influence who is showing signs of unrepentant sin. Pray
for God to bring this person to repentance. Ask Him if there is anything He
would like you to do in this situation. Perhaps He wants you to lovingly but
firmly approach this person or maybe He wants you to commit to interceding over
the situation.
2. Solomon displayed great wisdom by delaying his
verdict on Adonijah (v 52). Rather than reacting to Adonijah in a time of
heightened emotions, Solomon waited to determine how best to deal with
Adonijah’s rebellion. Have you ever faced negative consequences because you
acted rashly? Ask God to show you how to make decisions wisely instead of
rashly.
3. Pray for unity in the Church today. Ask the Lord
to be merciful towards those who struggle with rebellion and to bring them to
repentance.
