Bible reading: 1 Kings 12-13; Luke 24: 36-53
Memory verse: “This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.” Daniel 4:17 (KJV)
Many today are yet to know that God, the most High, rules in every kingdom of the world. Although Satan and his agents control this world’s system of things and try to make sure man ends on the wrong side of his maker but God is still in charge overall.
There was a scene in today’s bible reading where two men were set to battle over the rulership of Israel and Judah. These men, Rehoboam the son of Solomon, and Jeroboam the servant of Solomon each wanted to be King over Israel and Judah. Rehoboam wanted it because he was heir to the throne. Jeroboam, on the other hand, was working with the prophecy given by Ahijah to him in 1 Kings 11:30-39. So both men were right.
Unknown to both men this was the doing of the LORD, who had earlier promised to divide the kingdom into many parts because of the sins of King Solomon who went after other gods. Ten tribes to be given to Jeroboam, and Rehoboam to keep the remaining because of David’s sake. But both men wanted the whole Kingdom for themselves.
Thank God for Prophets. The word of the LORD came to Prophet Shemaiah in 1 Kings 12:23-24 (KJV), “Speak unto Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and unto all the house of Judah and Benjamin, and to the remnant of the people, saying, [24] Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel: return every man to his house; for this thing is from me. They hearkened therefore to the word of the LORD, and returned to depart, according to the word of the LORD.” And that was how death and destruction was averted that very day.
God still rules in the affairs of men. He still speaks to people and through prophets by His Spirit, but how many care to follow? Death and destruction is what follows whenever a people fail to listen to or follow His commands. But He has a better plan for all men. Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV) says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.“
Prayer: Father, help me to be conscious of Your rule and Your words in this system of things that has been designed to keep men away from You in Jesus name.
Bro. Worthmore Aghanenu