1 Kings 12

Because Solomon followed foreign gods, 10 tribes werd ripped away from his son, Rehoboam. He was warned NOT to go to war with them. God hates it when family fights.

We are wise to do all we can to eliminate contention with family members.

1 Kings 9-11

Err … concubines. That’s too many women. They ended up being Solomon’s undoing. As warned, they stole the king’s heart away from God to their false gods.

When God and His Word issue a warning, pay attention to it and live.

1 Kings 8

King Solomon knelt before the altar of the Lord in the temple he had built and prayed a profound prayer that was obviously recorded. I personally intend to study this prayer to strengthen my ability to ” cover the bases” as I bring my petitions to the Lord.

For me, prayer is one of the only things I can effectively do … and it’s probably the BEST thing I can do.

I can’t run a mile any longer, but I can pray for those who can.

1 Kings 4-8

Solomon spared NO EXPENSE as he had the new temple built. Only the finest materials were used for a house God would live in.

WE are the house God chooses to live in. The processes He puts us through are not intended to merely chasten us – they are meant to refine us.

Do you want to be cheap gold or costly PURE GOLD?

I recently watched an interview with Arthur Blank, the former owner- executive of Home Depot. I was impressed with his devotion to making every day count. He is also very benevolent, giving away multiplied millions of dollars.

King Solomon was also a productive individual, having written 3000 proverbs and composing over 1000 songs.

Come to think of it, I’ve published several thousand morning devotionals.

If you have any stories of whether these posts have helped you, please let me know. I want to be a blessing.

1 Kings 4

George Washington had his own vine and fig tree and referred to them in his writings. The phrase, taken from the Bible, implies that one has all he really needs. Such was the state of Israel under King Solomon. Peace, prosperity, freedom from fear of their enemies… who had all been slain.

We may not have our own fig tree, but through Christ, we have ALL we will ever nerd.

1 Kings 3

To Solomon was given great wisdom to rule God’s people. Wisdom is insight into the true nature of things. It always seeks truth, not selfish advantage.

As we pray for leaders, ask for God to give them wisdom. It’s necessary for effective rule.

2 Sam 23

David had at least 30 mighty men who were capable and proven in combat. One of them slew 800 enemy warriors alone.

Nowadays, we have different standards of measuring men in spirituality.

Effectiveness in prayer – knowledge of scripture – generosity in giving – loving care of the saints – faithfulness to God’s house etc.

2 Sam 22

As David poured out his heart of gratitude to the Lord for saving him from his enemies, he composed a Psalm that concluded by acknowledging God’s unfailing kindness ( mercy) to his offspring.

Our loved ones will be recipients of God’s mercy because of our faith. [Ps. 23]

2 Sam 21

Joshua had established a Covenant with the tricky Gibeonites that he would preserve them. Saul violated the Covenant. David restored the agreement and made restitution.

Christians can keep covenant by God’s grace. Willpower can fall short. Trust the Lord.