We read in 1 Kings 11 a regrettable and tragic turning point in the reign of Solomon. Despite God’s given wisdom and blessings, Solomon’s heart turned away from God. His many wives and concubines led him to worship foreign gods. This is a direct violation of God’s command. This is serious. We see how the wisest king could fall into sin when he does not guard his heart carefully.
“The king, moreover, must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more of them, for the Lord has told you, “You are not to go back that way again.” 17 He must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray. He must not accumulate large amounts of silver and gold.” (Deuteronomy 17:16,17)
Solomon disobeyed all that God commanded a king. He set up altars for foreign gods. God raised up adversaries against him. His kingdom is split. He gets to keep only one tribe out of twelve. This is a sobering reminder of the dangers of disobedience. It tells us the importance of remaining faithful to God, regardless of our position or achievements. You know what they say, the higher they are, the harder they fall.
In every stage of our Christian walk, we must guard our heart carefully, so we do not stray from the path.
I invite you to say this prayer.
Father in heaven, I ask for the strength and wisdom to remain faithful to you in all circumstances. Guard my heart against anything that would lead me again from your commandments. Help me to learn from Solomon’s mistakes and keep my focus on you. Let me walk in your ways all the days of my life. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen,
Heavenly Father, we ask for the strength and wisdom to remain faithful to You in all circumstances. Guard our hearts against anything that would lead us away from Your commandments. Help us to learn from Solomon’s mistakes and keep our focus on You, that we may walk in Your ways all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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