Solomon had spared Adonijah’s life when he tried to usurp the throne. Adonijah should have repented of his ambition and rebelliousness. Instead, he conspired to have Bathsheba help him get Abishag as a wife for himself. This was a wicked thing because Abishag had been David’s concubine at the end of his life. Solomon needed to deal with this sin swiftly and surely. It was the first test of his kingship. Although Adonijah was Solomon’s half-brother, Solomon had him executed. Dealing with sin can be difficult and painful. But it is necessary.

After dealing with Adonijah’s wickedness, Solomon decided to deal with those David had warned him about. First, he stripped Abiathar of his priestly duties for his role in trying to make Adonijah king. However, he spared Abiathar’s life. Not so with Joab and Shimei. Solomon had Joab struck down in the tent of the Lord, avenging the blood of two innocent men. Finally, Solomon had Shimei put under permanent house arrest. But when Shimei violated his order, he too was struck down. God used these human tragedies to firmly establish Solomon on David’s throne.
Application: Father, thank you for establishing leaders of all nations. Please raise up godly people to lead this nation.
One Word: God establishes our leaders