April 10, 2024

The rest of the story of David continues into 1 Kings. However, his reign ends because he is sick and feverish; they hire a young woman to care for him. Adonijah, one of David's sons, took it upon himself to proclaim that he would become king; however, before he was anointed, some of David's people heard about what was happening and went to Bathsheba and encouraged her to go to David and speak to him because he had told her that Solomon would reign after him. Nathan, the prophet, came in to back her up. Then David called them back before him and instructed them to bring Solomon, having him ride on the king's mule. Riding the king's mule was a capital offense without the king's permission, so this was evidence that Solomon was next in line for the throne. They anointed Solomon, blew the trumpet, and had a big party. Adonijah heard the commotion from a distance, enquired about what he was hearing, and then became fearful when he learned Solomon was anointed king. Then all the people that were celebrating with him left. He ran and placed his hands on the horns of the altar. Adonijah's servants begged for his life, and Solomon, being reasonable, told them that if he showed himself a worthy man, he wouldn't kill him, but if he were wicked, he would die. They brought him down from the altar and took him to Solomon; he bowed himself before Solomon, and Solomon sent him home. 

If you decide to take things upon yourself rather than waiting on God, he will put you back in your place, and whatever good he had in store for you will have to wait. Adonijah jumped the gun, knowing his father, David, was sick. He was embarrassed and nearly died for running ahead of God's plan. Have patience and wait for it; it shall surely come. 

And let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel: and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save king Solomon. Then ye shall come up after him, that he may come and sit upon my throne; for he shall be king in my stead: and I have appointed him to be ruler over Israel and over Judah. 1 Kings 1:34-35