Whilst the English Bible is arranged
by types of writings, we meditate
OT chronologically to get better flow:
Genesis on God’s Plan for creation;
JOB on Sovereignty of God; and
Exodus, Leviticus, Num-Deut on
Deliverance, Holiness & Obedience.
Then Joshua on Obedient Faith,
Judges on God Restoring Repentant;
Ruth on Faithfulness/Redemption;
1 Sam on Rule of God in our heart;
2 Sam on Consequences of sin;
1 Chronicles on Genuine Worship;
add PSALMS on Hymns of Worship,
covering Israel’s history up to David.
Continuing, King Solomon’s life is
set forth in the first half of 1 Kings.
Under his leadership, Israel rises
to its peak of power and glory.
The crowning touch comes with
the construction of the temple
in Jerusalem. But Solomon’s zeal
for God cools as pagan wives
turn his heart from godly worship.
Solomon dies a man divided
religiously, leaving behind a nation
divided physically. The next century
sees the decline of two nations,
each growing indifferent to
God’s prophets and precepts.
We will meditate on 1 Kings on the
United and Divided Kingdom over
3 weekends in following 6 divisions:
1Kgs 1-4: Solomon’s Rise
1Kgs 5-8: Solomon’s Temple
IKgs 9-11: Solomon’s Fame
1Kgs 12-16: A Nation Torn
1Kgs 17-19: Ministry of Elijah
1Kgs 20-22: Reign of Ahab
Solomon was the wisest king in
the history of Israel, but his wives
led to the introduction of false gods
and false worship in Israel. It’s good
for us to have wisdom, but that is
not enough; for the highest goal
in life is to obey God. So, help us
Lord such that patience obedience
will characterise our lives. Amen.