Devotion:
Read 1 Kings 11:1-13.
The fall of strong and mighty believers does not often take place overnight or in one single instance. More often it’s the result of choices and inaction over a long period of time that one day results in a complete downfall. Bible stories, like this one, aren’t just interesting accounts of ancient people; they contain critical principles that have applied to all generations through the centuries. King Solomon’s life helps us see the progression of compromise and its disastrous results. Solomon began his kingship with devotion to God and righteous priorities. So what happened to change his desires and direction? God had instructed His people not to intermarry with other nations and had specifically prohibited Israel’s kings from taking multiple wives. Instead of holding fast to the Lord in love and devotion, Solomon let his wives lead him toward foreign deities.
Because the king ignored reproof and continued to disobey, Israel became a divided nation. Compromise begins when we ignore God’s instructions and follow the world’s practices. Then we start loving people, activities, or things more than we love God. If we don’t follow His leading, we’re in danger of losing what He intended for our lives. But if we refuse to compromise, we’ll remain devoted to Him. If we are honest, we too sometimes place the things of this world in front of God, and reflecting on this passage is a reminder of our shortcomings.
Personal Worship Option:
God, please help us stay focused on you and stay faithful to you. We know we will fall short, but help us get back on the path. Amen.
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