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Reading 1 Kings
Reading 1 Kings
As we turn to reading 1 Kings we transition from the end of David’s life to the reign of Solomon. Gordon Fee gave a brief outline of these early chapters of 1 Kings:
”1 Kings 1–11 give an abbreviated account of Solomon’s reign. Four things are important to the narrator: (1) how Solomon came to the throne, (2) his renown for wisdom, (3) the building of the temple and his palace, and (4) his demise and the reasons for it.”*
We see the continued division within the people of Israel, the wrongful pursuit of power for one’s own use and honor. The goal of putting God first is a goal that isn’t found that often in these stories. The biggest struggle is it requires ‘denying self’ and submitting unto the LORD.
It is sad to read of the end of David’s life, but such is common to most people that get to live unto old age. (Read again Ecclesiastes depiction of this: Eccl. 12:1-8). It is interesting to note that while David’s body has become infirm, his mind continues to appear sharp. Not only does he remember people and their actions that impacted his life, but he remembers God! Growing old depends a lot upon luck and circumstances. Becoming a godly older person requires character. We have watched David as he made heroic good choices, but we have also seen some major blunders that brought devastating consequences. Through it all, he would end up trusting God. When he made mistakes, when he was reproved, he didn’t turn away from God in anger, but turned TO God in repentance and contrition of heart (read the Psalms that deal with his adultery – Psa. 51; 6; 32; and 38).
My goal is not to be an old person (perhaps I am already there), but to be godly. What is your goal of life?
Hugh DeLong
*How To Read The Bible Book By Book, Gordon Fee, pg. 91.
