Skip to main content

1 Kings-12

A New King: A Devotional Study on 1 Kings Chapter 12​

Introduction:​

King Solomon's reign was a period of unparalleled wealth and prosperity in Israel's history. However, as his son Rehoboam succeeded him, the tone took a drastic shift. Read along as we explore the story of Rehoboam's ascent to the throne in 1 Kings 12.

Section 1: The Demand for Relief (1 Kings 12:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: The people of Judah came to Rehoboam with a bold request: to lighten the heavy yoke that Solomon's reign had imposed. They prayed that the new king would relieve their financial burdens. How fitting for us today, who also live in a world where money and comfort often dominate our thoughts and needs. May we reflect on how we use our resources, remembering that our financial burdens pale in comparison to the weight others carry.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you perceive your financial burdens in light of others?
  • In what ways can you use your financial resources to alleviate the burdens of others?

Section 2: The Hard Line (1 Kings 12:3-16)​

Devotional Thought: Rehoboam's initial response to the people's demand was a quick and resolute sternness. He failed to recall Solomon's leniency and instead preferred the advice of the older men who advocated increased taxes. In the wake of his decisions, the people of Israel rebelled, rejecting the heavy yolk. May we recognize the importance of listening to mature and wise perspectives. Often, their insights and guidance can have a profound impact in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you respond to guidance from the mature and wise?
  • In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of humility, accepting guidance from those with more experience?

Section 3: The Divide (1 Kings 12:16-19)​

Devotional Thought: The people of Israel found a new king in Jeroboam, and the kingdom split into two, Judah, and Israel. This division resulted in tragedy, as this split led to sibling battles and sibling hostility between the two kingdoms. May we learn from this tragic lesson, recognizing that division promotes animosity and that solidarity brings peace and unity.

Reflection Questions:

  • What divisions in your life take away your peace and unity?
  • How can you work towards reconciling and unifying these divides?

Section 4: The Unmanly King (1 Kings 12:20-24)​

Devotional Thought: Rehoboam's anger and resentment towards Israel led him engage in a fratricidal war against Jeroboam and his people. This war proved unfruitful to Rehoboam, leading to loss and devastation in Judah. May we learn from Rehoboam's unmanliness, recognizing that our anger often leads us into further trouble and despair.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you respond to the anger and resentment that takes over your life?
  • In what ways can you channel your anger constructively?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through 1 Kings chapter 12, let's learn from the triumph and tragedy of Rehoboam's reign. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, unity, and wise guidance. May we cultivate these character traits, recognizing that they lead to peace and prosperity in our lives and communities.