Division: A Study in 1 KingsSample

What does it say?

Israel’s new rulers followed their own selfish motives. The kingdom was divided and fell further away from God.

What does it mean?

Its new leaders ravaged the nation of Israel soon after the death of Solomon. Rehoboam’s pride and arrogance lead to the dividing of the kingdom. Jeroboam’s fear and need for acceptance forced him to embrace and promote idolatry. The once great nation, a symbol of God’s blessing, was now being lead astray by rulers who had no thought of Him. And, as sin became more prevalent, the divided nation began to learn a very hard lesson: leadership motivated by selfishness leads only to destruction.

How should I respond?

Rehoboam and Jeroboam both acted wickedly in the sight of the Lord. In an effort to consolidate and increase their power, they committed idolatry and injustice. Instead of appealing to the Lord for wisdom, they appealed to man's wisdom. Where are you tempted to act politically instead of wisely? Are you drawn to deceive, manipulate or leverage people to get your own way? Ask God to illuminate your heart to areas where you might be acting in foolish ways. Consider asking those you lead to examine your life and give feedback on where you might be using people as opposed to enabling them to flourish.