READ 1 Kings 1
The prophet Nathan and Bathsheba join forces to ensure that Solomon replaces David
as king.

INSIGHT
As Adonijah, David”s oldest living son, takes steps to become king, only Bathsheba and
Nathan know of David”s desire that Solomon succeed him. Circumstances seem grim to
Bathsheba. Should Adonijah become king, she and Solomon most probably would lose
their lives, being seen as threats to the throne. Yet it is God who establishes kings, and
His will is that Solomon reign. Again God demonstrates that He is in control–in spite of
the foreboding circumstances. As we consider the perplexing nature of circumstances in
the world, we are tempted to lose heart, perhaps to question whether God is really in
control. We should be reminded from 1 Kings 1 that He is. Whatever comes our way,
the hand of God is there to see us through. It is something we must believe.

PRAYER
As you continue your time with the Lord, offer this praise to Him:
I will thank the Lord with all my heart;
I will declare all your wondrous works.
The Lord is a refuge for the persecuted,
A refuge in times of trouble.  
Those who know your name trust in you
Because you have not abandoned
Those who seek you, Lord (Psalm 9:1, 9-10).

Now express any additional thoughts of praise, adoration, or thanksgiving. Pray this confession to the Lord as you seek to keep your life free from sin:
Even now —
This is the Lord’s declaration —
Turn to me with all your heart,  
With fasting, weeping, and mourning.  
Tear your hearts, not just your clothes,  
And return to the Lord your God.
For he is gracious and compassionate,
Slow to anger, abounding in faithful love,
And he relents from sending disaster
(Joel 2:12-13).

The Lord encourages us to come to Him with our concerns and desires. As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:

• Greater sensitivity to sin
• The ministry of your local church
• Your activities for the day

Offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
“May the Lord bless you and protect you;  
May the Lord make his face shine on you
And be gracious to you;  
May the Lord look with favor on you  
And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26).