February 14, 2025

Passage Read: 2 Samuel 22 - 1 Kings 1
Meditation Verses: 1 Kings 1:7-10

Thought

Solomon's appointment as next in line for the throne was public knowledge, at least among the leaders of Israel. Adonijah knew it too, and so he didn't invite Solomon or Nathan the prophet or Zadok the priest or Benaiah and his guard. Adonijah knew who was loyal to the king and knew they wouldn't agree with his attempt to usurp the throne. He also knew who to consult with, who might accept him and support him as king. Adonijah and his supporters must have thought David was too far gone and missed his chance to set Solomon on the throne. So they felt compelled to choose a new king while David lived, but for some reason chose to ignore the king's former proclamation. Instead, they agreed to back Adonijah. It was, after all, Adonijah who approached them.

Application

There is no excuse for what Adonijah and his supporters did. They knew full well they were going against the king, and so they each received mercy or judgment as they deserved. It is rebellion even if the king appears to have lost his faculties or is out of touch with his kingdom. He made declaration when he was in his right mind and now some are taking advantage of his lack of awareness to push a different agenda. I must be careful to honor my leaders even in their absence, even if they have lost touch. The wishes and directives they made when in touch should still be honored, even if I want something different. To set aside their instructions for my agenda is still rebellion, even though the one who made them is disconnected or departed.