David had a heart for God and was a good king. He wasn't perfect, but his kingdom grew. When David died, his son, Solomon became king. Solomon started off as a good king with a focus on God. He wanted to be wise and lead God's people well.
Solomon became famous for his wisdom, and Israel experienced a time of peace and prosperity. Solomon built the temple for God to live among his people. Our question today is: Was the promise still needed if God's people were wise? Yes! Wisdom is not enough to save people from their sins. God is worthy of our full obedience.
Solomon was wise, but knowing what is right doesn't always mean choosing what is right. Solomon eventually stopped letting God be the king of his whole life and started making choices like the kings around him.
Solomon allowed other people who didn't love God to infuence him and his choices. Solomon began disobeying God, causing the kingdom that he reigned to be split In two.The king known for wisdom still had a sinful and messy heart. Solomon's wisdom could not rescue him from sin.
Only Jesus could rescue us from sin becuase he lived a perfect life, possesses perfect wisdom and always obeys God. Jesus fills the gap of our disobedience.
Even though Solomon didn't follow God, God was still faithful with his promise and was the next generation in the family of Jesus.
Lamentations helps us remember how good God's faithfulness is to us.
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Read James 1:22.
What do you think James means by "the word"? (God's Word, the Bible, what God has told us is true and how He calls us to live)
What's the difference between hearing something and doing something?
Which is easier: knowing the right answer or actually doing it? Why?
Pray and ask God to help you move from having knowledge about God to loving God completely.