“Wherefore Nathan spake unto Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, saying, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith doth reign, and David our lord knoweth it not?”
Context:1 Kings 1:11 takes us to a pivotal moment in the history of Israel. King David was aging and his reign was coming to an end. Adonijah, one of David’s sons, attempted to seize the throne without David’s knowledge or approval. Nathan, the prophet, went to Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, to inform her of Adonijah’s actions and to seek her help in ensuring that Solomon becomes the rightful heir to the throne.
Key Characters:Nathan: A prophet and advisor to King David. Bathsheba: The mother of Solomon, who was David’s wife and previously the wife of Uriah the Hittite. Adonijah: One of David’s sons who sought to take the throne.
Nathan’s Revelation:Nathan brings the news to Bathsheba that Adonijah is declaring himself king while David is unaware of it. This revelation creates a sense of urgency to protect David’s legacy and ensure that Solomon, who was chosen by God, becomes the rightful heir. Bathsheba’s concern lies not only with Adonijah’s attempt to seize the throne but also with David’s lack of knowledge about it. This highlights the importance of David’s endorsement and his recognition of Solomon as his successor.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Faithfulness and Obedience:Nathan’s actions demonstrate his faithfulness to God’s calling as a prophet. It is essential for us to be obedient to God’s instructions and to act in accordance with His will, even in challenging situations.
- Wisdom in Seeking Counsel:Bathsheba’s decision to seek counsel from Nathan when confronted with a critical situation teaches us the importance of seeking wise and godly advice. In our own lives, seeking guidance from trusted individuals who have a strong relationship with God can help us make sound decisions.
- God’s Sovereignty:Through the events surrounding the succession to David’s throne, we witness God’s sovereignty and His fulfillment of His promises. Despite Adonijah’s attempts, God had chosen Solomon as the rightful heir, and His plan would ultimately be accomplished.
Application:
- Trust in God’s Plan:Just as God had a plan for the succession of David’s throne, He also has a plan for our lives. Trusting in His sovereignty and His timing, even when things may seem uncertain, allows us to rest in His faithfulness and guidance.
- Seek Wise Counsel:When faced with challenging decisions, it is important to seek counsel from wise and godly individuals who can offer guidance and perspective. Surrounding ourselves with such people can help us make informed choices aligned with God’s will.
- Act in Obedience:As Nathan faithfully carried out God’s instructions, we should strive to be obedient to God’s calling in our own lives. Being attentive to His voice and acting in accordance with His will can lead us on the path of righteousness and blessings.
Remember, the Bible is a rich source of wisdom and guidance. It’s beneficial to read the surrounding verses and explore other commentaries and resources to gain a deeper understanding of the passage and its relevance to our lives.
