Bible Pathways - May 24, 2005

May 24

Read II Chronicles 10 -- 13

In Today's Reading:

Rehoboam succeeds Solomon; Jeroboam leads revolt of the 10 tribes; Rehoboam forsakes the Law of God; Shishak invades Judah

When Solomon was made king, David urged him: Keep the charge of the LORD your God, to walk in His ways . . . keep . . . His Commandments . . . as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do (I Kings 2:3). Sadly, however, there is no record of Solomon urging his own son, Rehoboam, to read God's Word and remain faithful to the Lord as David his father had done for him. Neither is there any mention that Rehoboam began his reign with altar sacrifices and prayer as Solomon had done. What we do read is that, three years after Rehoboam became king, he forsook the Law of the LORD, and all Israel with him. . . . And he did evil, because he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD (II Chronicles 12:1-14; also 11:17).

The leaders of Israel met with Rehoboam with a reasonable request — that he ease the excessive taxes his father had imposed upon them. They also asked that he discontinue the forced labor which had persisted since Solomon had first begun building the luxurious palaces, stables, chariot houses, magnificent parks, and other spectacular structures within his famous kingdom. If Rehoboam would consent the leaders agreed to pledge their loyalty to him.

Rehoboam's first decision as king was a major blunder. His intolerance led most of the tribes to secede and form the northern kingdom under Jeroboam just as Ahijah had prophecied (see I Kings 11:29-31; II Chronicles 10:2-15). Rehoboam was left with only a small part of the original promised land. Only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin remained under his control. But, since he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD (12:14), how could he have made wise choices? Notice that it does not say to "serve the Lord." It was not better service that the Lord expected but He wanted Rehoboam to seek the LORD. The same spiritual principles hold true today and can be seen as the difference between Martha serving Jesus and Mary who sat at Jesus' feet, and heard His Word (Luke 10:38-42). If we humbly seek the Lord our lives will be guided by His Spirit to accomplish His perfect will and purpose. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

Christ Revealed:

Through the gold candlestick (lampstand) (II Chronicles 13:11). Jesus is the Light of the world (John 9:5).

Word Studies:

10:4 yoke grievous = heavy burdens severe; 10:10 loins = waist; 11:12 every several = each separate.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in memory of Joseph Tringali · BPM Staff: Bernice Rathbone · Government Official: Rep. Charlie Dent (PA) · Country: Armenia (3 million) southwest Transcaucasia between Europe and Asia · Major languages: Armenian and Russian · Religious freedom · 79% Armenian/Russian Orthodox; 3% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others by name (Luke 22:31-32).

Optional Reading: I Corinthians 11