APRIL 11
King David was now old and stricken in years and was not
able to perform his royal duties. His son, Adonijah, took advantage
of the situation, and proclaimed himself king of Israel. He was
deliberately rebelling against the will of God, for he knew that God
had appointed Solomon to succeed David. Some of David’s confidential
advisors even fell in with Adonijah’s wicked plot, including Joab
and Abiathar, the priest. However, three loyal servants informed
Bathsheba of the plot and she went to King David. She knew he would
not break his oath that Solomon, he son, would be the next king.
Solomon was made king and Adonijah fled to God’s altar for
protection. As a result, Solomon promised not to kill him. It is sad
that wicked men flee to God for help without really repenting in
their hearts. The altar was not a place of repentance or fellowship
for Adonijah, but simply a means of escape.
In chapter 2 David gives his charge to Solomon. He
emphasized the spiritual before the political, for he wanted his son
to walk in the ways of the Lord. David’s death is recorded in verse
10. In the latter verses of the chapter Adonijah stubbornly refuses
to follow the leadership of Solomon, and he was judged for his sins.
In chapter 3 Solomon receives wisdom from God, and the
account of the two mothers is but one illustration of that wisdom.
Also, since the mothers had direct access to Solomon, it indicates
that Solomon loved his people and wanted to serve them.
It is wonderful that every Christian has access to God, who
is greater than Solomon. And God promises to give wisdom to meet
every need. James 1:5 tells us, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him
ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;
and it shall be given him.”