Year of the Bible: Part Six of Twelve Prøve

Israel A Divided Nation After King Solomon’s death, his son Rehoboam became king of Israel. When Jeroboam heard about Solomon’s death, he traveled back to Israel to be king himself. Both had ungodly political agendas and, in their leadership, chose to be served rather than to serve. Each king’s desire for power led to the division of Israel. Rehoboam avoided the wise counsel of the elders who had successfully advised Solomon for years. Instead, he chose the advice of his young friends, who were more concerned with power and had little to no experience. Jeroboam felt his authority would be threatened if the people’s hearts returned to the Lord in Jerusalem, where Rehoboam was king. To stop the people from worshiping God—and thus, dismissing him as king—Jeroboam made tangible gods and incorporated various religions that satisfied the people. God was not the priority for either king, so such politics challenged their leadership. Rehoboam had every intention to undermine Jeroboam’s authority and reunite Israel. Before he could launch an attack, the Lord spoke through Shemaiah—a man of God—and told Rehoboam not to fight his own people but to go back home. God was clear that Israel’s division was His judgment for their idolatry, and it was prideful and power-hungry leadership that brought about that division. Sin is the issue that causes division, not just among nations but also within our homes, workplaces, schools, and our relationship with God. Thankfully, Jesus can remove our sin if we let Him. When He does, we are united in one church body with God and can carry His peace everywhere we go. Question: When you notice division in your home, school, or workplace, what is the probable cause? How can you reverse the division and bring unity? Prayer: Ask the Lord to put His peace upon you and give you direction on reconciling any unhealthy divisions.