Bible Pathways - April 22, 2005

April 22
Read I Kings 2:26 -- 4
In Today's
Abiathar banished from priesthood; Joab put to death; Shimei executed; Solomon's control of the kingdom becomes secure
Soon after Solomon became king, we read: Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burned incense in high places (I Kings 3:3). The Tabernacle and the Altar of Burned Offering were still located at Gibeon, about six miles northwest of
Solomon ignored God's Word concerning the kings of
Solomon offered enormous sacrifices to God, built the world famous
Solomon refused to follow his godly father's advice to keep the charge (requirements) of the LORD your God . . . keep . . . His Commandments (2:3). He is typical of the brilliant, multitalented people who compromise biblical principles and still assume that God is pleased since they are successful and popular in the world. But compromise is the first foothold of sin that sooner or later destroys one's spiritual usefulness and influence for Christ for partial obedience is actually disobedience.
Solomon eventually confessed: I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit (chasing after the wind) (Ecclesiastes 1:14). But, with advancing age, he later concluded that the most essential purpose in life was to fear God, and keep His Commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Word Studies:
2:44 privy to = know; 3:1 made affinity = made an alliance; 3:19 overlaid it = lay on him; 3:26 bowels yearned = motherly compassion; 4:6 tribute = forced labor; 4:28 dromedaries = young camels; charge = responsibility.
Christ Revealed:
Through the wisdom which God gave Solomon (I Kings 3:12). We are in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption (I Corinthians 1:30).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for BP Staff: George Kopchak · Government Official: Rep. James Langevin (RI) · Country:
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: I Thessalonians 5:17