1. Two spiritual directions (1-16)

King Rehoboam mustered the able, young men to retake all Israel for himself. A prophet warned him not to do so, and the king obeyed this word of God. The decision to obey God's word shaped the spiritual direction of Judah for the next three years. Rehoboam built up the military while Jeroboam introduced a religion of convenience and materialism to strengthen his political hold. Many Israelites fell into idolatry from which they never recovered. But the Levites sought the LORD God, even abandoning their ancestral property to do so. Some Israelites followed and also set their hearts on seeking God. Will you also set your heart on seeking the LORD even at a personal cost?

2. God blesses those who seek him (17-23)

The strength of the nation is in the faith of her people and when her rulers humble themselves to obey God. God demonstrated this in Rehoboam's reign. God blessed Rehoboam with a large family and wisdom to rule over the people.


Application: Father, the world tempts us to worship comfort and convenience. Help me to set my heart on seeking you no matter what it costs me.
One Word: Seek the LORD with all your heart