DECEMBER 27, 1 Kings 11:1-8

Do you know what these pictures are? They are the gods of the people who lived around Israel. This is possibly the saddest chapter of Solomon’s life because he turned away from the Living God of Israel, to worship idols made from the hands of man. Solomon seemed so strong in his spiritual walk, and the LORD even spoke to him personally twice. What made him change so drastically and cause him to worship these evil idols?

God had commanded Israel not to take wives from the unbelieving nations, because these women would turn their hearts to worship other gods. But Solomon took them to be his wives and concubines. His love for women was greater than his love for God. Solomon had 700 wives and 300 concubines! That is a total of 1,000 women! For all his great wisdom and knowledge of God’s Word, Solomon failed to apply it to his own life. What was the result of this?

God was right. Solomon’s wives turned away his heart from God. He started to worship other gods, and even built places of worship for these idols, burning incense and sacrificing to them. He did this until his old age, with no signs of repentance. What a great change from the Solomon who once called his people to incline their hearts towards God, and to serve Him with a perfect heart! How quickly he had turned away from God to go after idols made of earth!

It is tragic that Solomon, who knew God so well, could backslide so quickly. This is a warning to us that we could also end up like Solomon. Are you keeping any idols in your heart? Are you allowing yourself to be distracted by something or someone, such that your heart no longer seeks after God?

Thought: “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (1 John 2:16)

Prayer: Father in heaven, grant me wisdom to apply Your Word to my life. Reveal to me my secret sins, faults and idols. Break down every idol of my heart, and restore me to a closer walk with You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.