Day 174- The Bible Recap

Today's reading is 1 Kings 12-14. Here's what stood out to me:

On behalf of the people, Jeroboam (whom the LORD said would be king) came to Rehoboam and asked if he would lift the heavy burdens that had been placed on the people by Solomon.

Rehoboam sought advice from an older crowd who advised if he acted as a servant to the people, they would in turn be his loyal servants. But Rehoboam then asked a younger crowd, who advised adding to the yoke and instead of whips, use scorpions. 12:15 said Rehoboam didn't listen to the older crowd, "for it was a turn of affairs brought about by the LORD that He might fulfill His Word." This was part of God's plan to make Jeroboam king.

The people revolted and sided with Jeroboam and made him king.

Out of fear, Jeroboam built golden calves and instructed the people to worship them. He thought if the people continued making sacrifices to the LORD, their hearts would turn back to Rehoboam. Jeroboam was afraid of losing power and potentially his life...but straying from the LORD...there's nothing worse than that!

The LORD sent a prophet to Jeroboam, and even though he performed a miracle in front of him, Jeroboam still didn't change his ways.

We also see firsthand how important it is for us to listen to the LORD's words versus those of man. It can lead to death!

Chapter 14 detailed the tragic results of the LORD's people not obeying and following after Him. 14:9 says Jeroboam did more evil than all those who lived before him! The LORD struck down members of Jeroboam's family and told him He would strip him of his kingdom. He warned He also planned to uproot the people and scatter them due to their disobedience and unruly hearts.

We learn Rehoboam's rule is just as evil. The people also built pagan shrines and worshipped other gods. The LORD allowed the temple to be ransacked and treasures to be stolen.

There was constant war between Jeroboam and Rehoboam...a far cry from the united tribes following after the LORD's presence.

~Ann Mays