DAY 1: A Nation Divided
Imagine having a successful boss at work. Even though he was a bit rough around the edges, your job was secure and the business was thriving. But then a new leader appears, and publicly declares that he can do better, and that you won’t need to work as hard in order to receive the same results. What do you do?
The kings of Israel started with Saul, David, and Solomon. And for all three generations, the nation of Israel remained whole. Twelve tribes were united under one banner, and thanks to God, the nation as a whole prospered. But because Solomon didn’t fully follow God’s ways, the nation of Israel was about to be divided.
Early in his rule, Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, was asked to lighten the burden of the people. He received counsel from his father’s advisors, and counsel from young, inexperienced advisors. Ultimately, he followed the advice of his friends, and the entire nation suffered for it.
As you read today, consider this: Where do you most often go for advice? Are those you go to experienced and wise, or inexperienced?
READING & JOURNALING:
Where do you most often go for advice? Are those you go to experienced and wise, or inexperienced?
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? What is the worst?
What impact did these decisions have on your life? Your family? Others?
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Genesis 39 & 40
Journal: Write it out. Following the pattern from 7 Arrows Page (click here) what did you learn from today’s reading?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that there are a lot of places I go for advice, and that there have been times when I have sought advice from people who told me what I wanted to hear, instead of seeking advice from those who would encourage me to do what is right. Help me to follow the advice of the wise, and the wisdom of Your Word. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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