DECEMBER 1, 1 Kings 1:1, 5-15, 29-31

According to God’s promise in 1 Chronicles 22:9, Solomon would be the next king of Israel after King David. But at the start of 1 Kings, we read that King David’s oldest surviving son, Adonijah, had taken advantage of his father’s old age and sickly health to proclaim himself as king.

Adonijah did not bother to ask his father’s permission to be king. He assumed that it was his right as the oldest surviving son. What do you think Adonijah was more concerned about? He wanted the power that came with being a king.

Sometimes we can be like Adonijah. We maybe eager to be in positions of authority and influence so that we can gain the respect of others. Maybe you desire to be a leader in school, or to have a strong influence among your friends. If this is to feed your pride or gain some reward, it is sinful before God. When Adonijah said “I will be king” (1 Kings 1:5), he was full of pride. Selfish ambition displeases God.

Adonijah tried to make himself king over Israel by doing things his own way. He neither prayed to God, nor sought godly advice. Pray that you will not be like Adonijah who exalted himself. Rather, pray that you will humbly seek God for direction and submit to His way for you. Don’t fall into the trap of pride like Adonijah did.

Unscramble the words below to find out God’s response to the proud and humble.

oGd tsisreeth hte dopur,

btu eitgvh crgae uont eht luhebm. ( James 4:6)

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Thought: Self-promotion is no promotion.

Prayer: Father in heaven, grant to me a humble heart that will always seek to do what is pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.