Today’s reading picks up after King Solomon passes away and we see in this vacuum of leadership the northern tribe’s revolting against the heir apparent, Rehoboam, King Solomon’s son. 

These action-packed chapters show two leaders, Rehoboam and Jeroboam, who follow the ways of the world, dismiss their advisors and choose to move in ways that are not of the Lord. Consequently, the northern and southern tribes of Israel will be entangled with conflicts, war, and loss of life.

King Jeroboam, leader of the northern tribes, forgets history and constructs two golden calves. Along with raising up false idols, King Jeroboam develops a group of false prophets. The prophets and worship of idols will backfire on King Jeroboam as it greatly angers the Lord. We read “But even after this, Jeroboam did not turn from his evil ways….This became a great sin and resulted in the utter destruction of Jeroboam’s dynasty from the face of the earth.” (1 Kings 13:33-34).

To the south, we read that King Rehoboam’s reign also was not filled with success. In fact, we read, “Judah did evil in the eyes of the Lord” (1 Kings 14:22). The Lord allows Egypt to attack the kingdom to the south, and the strength and great wealth of this kingdom are utterly destroyed. King Rehoboam will pass away with the nation of Israel now divided into two kingdoms.

Questions for reflection:

  1. As you read today’s reading what stands out for you?
  2. I believe almost every one of us is a leader in some capacity. Knowing that all kinds of things can motivate us in our various roles and functions here on earth, what shouldn’t be, and what should be our motivation as leaders?
  3. If Rehoboam had taken the counsel that was shared with him, do you think there might have been a different outcome? Why or why not?
  4. How can you improve your listening at home or in the workplace?

Lord, thank you for the reminders in today’s reading about how important it is to walk in your truth. Lord, help us not to make the same mistakes by making power, greed, and control into ‘mini’ gods. And Lord, help us to trust that you will provide for us in all things, even when we feel weak. Lord, we know that when we are weak, you make us strong. Give us the strength and courage to stand in the places that are uncomfortable because they are the right places. In Christ, Amen.