Bible Pathways - May 24, 2006

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 thy God, to walk in His ways . . . keep . . . His Commandments . . . as it is written in the Law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest (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. Neither is there any mention that Rehoboam began his reign with altar sacrifices and prayer as his father 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 first began 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. Rehoboam was left with only a small part of the original promised land. Only the tribes of Judah and Benjamin remained. But, how could he have made wise choices, since he prepared not his heart to seek the LORD (12:14)? Notice that it does not say to "serve the Lord." It was not better service that the Lord expected, but for Rehoboam to seek the LORD. The same spiritual principles hold true today. The difference is between Martha serving Jesus and Mary who sat at Jesus' feet and heard the Word (Luke 10:38-42). Though we may be unaware of it, if we humbly seek the Lord, our lives will be guided by His Spirit to accomplish His perfect will and purpose. He giveth more grace. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto 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 =eavy burdens severe; 10:10 loins =aist; 11:12 every several =ach separate.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Ruth J. Hess · Staff: Mike Moore · Government Official: Rep. Charlie Dent (PA) · Country: Tuvalu (11,000) nine islands in the southwestern Pacific · Major languages: Tuvaluan and English · Religious freedom · 92% Protestant; 5% Baha'i; 2% Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Pray for boldness to tell others about the Lord (Acts 4:29).

Optional Reading: I Corinthians 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Job 13:15